Vinod and the Deepavali Dishes

At the start of the book, Vinod is at the market with his Aunt Meera, who is buying vegetables and other items for Deepavali. Along the way, he enjoys the sights and sounds of Little India. Back home, he is surprised to see his grandfather, whom he calls Tatta, cooking delicious-smelling and perfect-looking murukku and learns that his grandfather used to be a chef.

Vinod then helps his aunt and his grandfather cook many dishes. He decides to design a large menu to list all the dishes there will be. Aunty Meera suggests he adds candles and lamps to his poster since it is for Deepavali – the festival of lights.