My deepest thanks to Bibhuti Bhushan Nayak for gifting me his story and for blessing me with his friendship. This book was born of his generosity and his spirit inspires me every day.
My sincere appreciation to Smruti and Shubham (Jolly Boy) for placing their trust in me. Thanks to Jagatdeep Singh for doing likewise. I owe various citizens of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai a debt of gratitude for their kindness, encouragement and curiosity. Their lives infuse these pages and enrich me beyond words.
I first saw Bibhuti on Paul Merton in India, a documentary series for Channel 5. I’d like to thank Paul for accepting Bibhuti’s invitation to kick him in the groin, an act of grace and bravery from which this book, and a life-changing friendship, eventually emerged.
My wife Uzma patiently endured with me every up and down that comes with writing a book, and I couldn’t have finished it without her.
The same can be said of Jo Unwin and Clare Conville, agents former and current, and friends whose support and skill make the improbable a reality, and Helen Garnons-Williams, my editor, whose wisdom and sensitivity steer me past the vanities. Everything began with David Llewelyn, and I’ll never forget it.