From the window of a meeting room in a Bandra five-star, one of the world’s most popular children’s book authors of our times, David Walliams, watches the construction work in the background. “My father would have loved to see this — he’s an engineer,” he smiles.

This isn’t Walliams’ first time in Mumbai, but it is his first book tour. He’s spent the last two days at schools and book readings. “I had no idea I was well-known here. I knew I’d sold some books, but I didn’t know people would be excited to see me — that’s lovely. I love this country. I’ve been here as a tourist, so I was excited about having a free holiday,” he chuckles. “There’s magic in the air. I feel at home here.