Meghna Singhee, Adlabs Films, Creative Head says, “We at Adlabs are booklovers. We’ve consistently looked at books for material because we think there’s a wealth of stories there, away from the usual and with more depth to characters. With Battle for no. 19… lt was a question of right time. We’ve loved the book for the last 8 years but now with ott platforms and direct films, we’re able to tell wonderful stories with diverse characters more easily. And while Battle for No. 19 is crafted like a thriller set in the 1984 delhi riots, it’s really an incredible story of growing up and grit AND empathy that could happen anywhere, anytime. We’re very pleased that it’s going to be part of Adlabs’ Stories. That it’s also a book is just the icing.”
‘I’m very happy that Adlabs has optioned the rights for ‘Battle For No. 19’ The more people – especially girls – who are introduced to the content, the better. Particularly in today’s corrosive environment.’ – Ranjit Lal
Rukun Kaul, AVP – Digital and Business Initiatives Penguin Random House India says, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Adlabs on Ranjit Lal’s Battle for No. 19. We’re sure that his thriller will reach newer audiences and that the narrative will touch the hearts of all who see it on screen.”
About the book: Eight school girls from the hills on a tour of Agra, drive into Delhi the day Indira Gandhi is assassinated. They run into a violent crazed mob that pulls their driver out and slays him.
About the author: Ranjit Lal has written fiction and non-fiction for both adults and children. His most recent books for Puffin were The Caterpillar Who Went on a Diet and Other Stories, When Banshee Kissed Bimbo and Other Bird Stories and The Battle for No. 19.
For publicity and marketing queries, please get in touch with Varun Tanwar.
vtanwar@penguinrandomhouse.in