"He didn't owe money," Shom whispered. "He owed a life. And when the debt collectors came, someone had to pay."

The adult graphic novel series Uncle Shom by Kirtu is a well-known title within South Asian adult comics. Originating as a serialized drama, the story explores taboo relationships, grief, and family secrets.

This was the part of the story the family never spoke about. We were respectable people. We didn't have debts.