Tehseen Poonawalla to Launch Chetan Bhagat’s New Romance Novel in Pune
Pune, 4th October 2025: Acclaimed author Chetan Bhagat is set to launch his much-anticipated romance novel, 12 Years: My Messed-Up Love Story, in Pune. The event will take place on Sunday, October 5, at 5 PM at Crossword, Westend Mall, Aundh, with celebrated political analyst and venture capitalist Tehseen Poonawalla as the chief guest.
The book marks Bhagat’s return to the romance genre after over a decade, following the massive success of titles like 2 States and Half Girlfriend, both of which were adapted into hit Bollywood films.
“After more than 10 years, following the success of 2 States and Half-Girlfriend, I have written a love story. 12 Years: My Messed-Up Love Story is extremely close to my heart and is one of my best books – if not the best book I have written so far,” Bhagat shared.
The novel tells the story of Saket, a 33-year-old divorced Punjabi stand-up comic, and Payal, a 21-year-old rising star in private equity from a conservative Jain family. Despite vast differences in age, background, and beliefs, they find themselves drawn to one another in an intense and complex relationship.
Through humour, heartbreak, and sharp observations, Bhagat explores themes of love, lust, cultural conflict, and emotional vulnerability, while addressing the timeless question: How do you know if someone is truly “the one”?
About the Author: Chetan Bhagat
Chetan Bhagat is one of India’s most widely read and influential contemporary authors, with 14 bestselling books to his name. His novels — including Five Point Someone, The 3 Mistakes of My Life, One Indian Girl, and 400 Days — have consistently topped bestseller lists. Many of his works have been adapted into critically acclaimed Bollywood films such as 3 Idiots, Kai Po Che, Half Girlfriend, and 2 States.
The New York Times has called him “the biggest-selling English-language novelist in India’s history.” He is also a motivational speaker, screenwriter, podcaster, and former investment banker.
About the Host: Tehseen Poonawalla
Tehseen Poonawalla is a prominent political analyst and entrepreneur, known for his sharp insights and engaging presence on television and digital platforms. A popular figure on social media, especially Instagram, he is widely regarded as one of the most followed and influential political voices online, often using his platform to spark national conversations.
He is married to designer and entrepreneur Monicka Vadera Poonawalla, and together they are parents to their young son, Zurvan.
