It’s all about One Indian Girl
Chetan Bhagat is back. This time it is with his new book ‘One Indian Girl’ set to release on October 1. The book is already in news for various reasons including breaking pre order records, contentious experts by an author, and teasers creating buzz on social media. It is the first book that he has written from woman’s point of view as a first narrator. It revolves around story of smart and successful female protagonist Radhika Mehta, who he believes will take an idea of feminism to another level. Youthensnews spoke to Chetan to about his books, research work, films, feminism and more. Excerpts–
Q. What is the inspiration behind writing One Indian Girl?
A. First, I wanted to challenge myself as an author. I have written several books that has been read and accepted by readers. I did not want to repeat myself. Second, a lot of readers had asked me to write something on women. They inspired me to come up with this book.
Q. You have mostly written book as the first narrator. Tell us about your experience of narrating girl’s experiences in the book.
A. It is easy to narrate your own story in a book. But narrating other’s story , and that too of a girl is quite difficult. I had to connect with my character and think from her point of view before writing about it. I spoke to hundreds of women about their views on various aspects which broadened my understanding for them.
Q. How did it change your own perspective about Indian women?
A. I understood them well and felt needed. The book made me realize that I may have hurt a lot of women in my life or may have failed to accept them. I am more patient and generous to them now.
Q. What is the most memorable comment you received on book?
A. My wife is my pillar of strength. She was quite surprised when she read the book. She said it is my best work till date. I felt very happy when she asked me how did I know women and put their thoughts in words so well.
Q. Are you following the recent trend of films, TV shows or books highlighting feminism?
A. When you write a book, you do not think of it. I have been working on it since two years. It is a coincidence that people are talking about feminism when my book on such issue is about to launch. It is not a hardcore or large book. It is light-hearted book which has a balance of sensitivity and laugh.
Q. What are the things that you keep in mind while writing your books?
A. Most of my books revolve around social issues. I try to write a story that many people would pick up , and that creates impact on people in some way. I do lot of research work, observe things and share interesting memories which readers can relate to.
Q. You are also busy in shooting for film ‘Half Girlfriend’ based on your book. Does your books being adapted to films create impact on your work?
A. No. The films being made on my books does not affect my work. I do not write for Bollywood films. If it was so, I would have written books only on love stories of girl and a boy. My books have different stories on social issues. However, it feels good to see films being made on them. I was surprised to see films like 3 Idiots, 2 States and how people could connect with them. Bollywood films are about music. When that adds to your work, it becomes more beautiful.
Q. How have you grown as an author over the years?
A. I have become patient and calmer person as a writer. Earlier, I used to follow angry writing style. My writing has also become smooth now.
Q. What is one important suggestion for Indian woman that you felt worth sharing while writing a book?
A. Indian women are faster and stronger than men. They dream faster and have goal. The problem is with Indian men that they are not ready to accept them the way they are. I would suggest Indian women that stay confident. Do not be ashamed of your dreams for the sake of society. Follow your dreams and do what you feel is right.
Q. How are you feeling as an Indian author after hearing the news of surgical strike carried out by Indian army?
A. Our government and army are very strong. It was very important for us to retaliate. They have done the right thing that needed to be done to prove a point.
Q. What is your opinion on sending away Pakistani artists after Uri attack?
A. I think this is a silly gesture. Artists have nothing to do with waging of war. We should rather offer them citizenship to stay and work in art field.
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