The story begins with Dimple Shah, who has just graduated from high school and been accepted at Stanford University. She wants to attend Insomnia Con 2017 at San Francisco State University (SFSU) over the summer, where she’d learn web development and have the opportunity to meet Jenny Lindt, a famous coder and web designer. The program costs $1,000, however, and Dimple feels sure her parents won’t pay for it. She suspects the only reason they agreed to let her attend Stanford is because they hope she will find an “IIH”—an “ideal Indian husband.”

Dimple’s mother, Mamma, is disappointed Dimple is not more interested in makeup and fashion and wants her to wear kaajal, a type of potted eyeliner. Dimple and Mamma argue over Dimple’s desire to relax after just graduating, and Dimple calls her mother’s views misogynistic, leading to an argument. Dimple worries that Mamma thinks Dimple has nothing to offer the world except her looks. The doorbell rings before Dimple erupts, and guests arrive.

Ritu and Seema, whom Dimple addresses as Auntie and didi (older sister), respectively, arrive. Ritu and Seema aren’t related to Dimple, but tradition dictates that Dimple be respectful of her elders. Seema is a reserved person, and Mamma tries to make Seema feel at home, which has led to a rivalry between Ritu and Mamma.