Book Review: 'Mobile Thatha: The Adventures Of A Techno Explorer’ By Kamala Mahadevan Turns Grandpa Into A Tech Explorer
· Free Press Journal
Kamala Mahadevan’s Mobile Thatha: The Adventures of a Techno Explorer is a delightful celebration of curiosity, family bonds and the ability to adapt, regardless of age. Set in the fictional village of Thenkudi, the book follows Madhu Thatha, a 75-year-old retired government officer who receives a smartphone from his grandchildren. What begins as a simple gift soon transforms into a series of humorous, touching and insightful adventures as Thatha embraces the digital world with childlike enthusiasm.
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The charm of the book lies in its gentle storytelling. Mahadevan avoids melodrama, instead weaving together interconnected slice-of-life episodes that are both entertaining and meaningful. Whether Thatha is grappling with messaging apps, social media or voice assistants, his technological missteps generate laughter without ever becoming caricature. More importantly, they reveal an enduring truth: that the desire to learn and stay relevant does not diminish with age.
A major strength of the novel is the relationship between Madhu Thatha and his wife, Ambujam Paati. Their affectionate banter, occasional disagreements and unwavering companionship provide the emotional anchor of the narrative. Paati’s practical outlook balances Thatha’s infectious enthusiasm, making them an endearing elderly couple in the Indian fiction landscape. Their interactions feel authentic and remind readers that long marriages are sustained by humour, patience and mutual respect. We know we would love to read more about them.
Mahadevan also deserves credit for presenting technology in a balanced manner. The smartphone is neither glorified nor demonised — it’s just another tool that can connect generations, solve everyday problems, and occasionally create comic confusion. Through this perspective, the book subtly bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.
Written in an engaging style and enriched by memorable supporting characters, Mobile Thatha is an enjoyable read for all ages. It carries echoes of the warmth found in classic Indian storytelling while addressing contemporary realities. By the final page, the reader is left with a smile and a quiet appreciation of the simple joys of family, community and lifelong learning.
Warm, witty and accessibly humane, Mobile Thatha is a sweet reminder that curiosity has no expiry date and that embracing change can be life’s greatest adventure.
Book: Mobile Thatha: The Adventures of a Techno Explorer
Author: Kamala Mahadevan
Publisher: APK Publishers
Pages: 140
Price: ₹250