set in present day bangolore, this charming narrator immediately reminded me of the uncle from 'a fine balance' - always cheerful among the despair and corruption. but this man ends up being an antidote to him: breaking out of his 'rooster cage' through murder and by turning his back on his family. and yet - you can't help but like him! and why not? we've read our share of loyal, pious, rural indians who can never escape their poverty, even if they escape their limited choices in their village. so finally: a happy ending (for him... for now) maybe that's the best you can hope for.