“I work even in my sleep,” says Indian Author And Social Commentator Shobhaa De

The fearless, bold and beautiful author known for speaking up her mind and heart, Shobhaa De talks to Indus Age in an exclusive interview as she gears up to visit Australia ‘The Jaipur Literature Festival’ part of Adelaide Festival Centre’s ‘OzAsia Festival 2018’. De gets candid about writing sexy books, how she deals with naysayers, the secret mantra behind her glowing face and a lot more. Read on:

By Nidhi Kumari

Behind every successful man, there is a Woman; what lies behind the success of the fearless, audacious, bold and very beautiful Woman Shobhaa De?

Equally true in reverse! My husband Dilip is my biggest strength – and critic. I respect his views and opinions. He tells me when I am out of line – and that’s very important to me. I am far too impetuous for my own good sometimes.

It is more than three decades since you ventured into writing books, how do you see your journey as a writer since you started to reaching thus far?

It has been one hell of a ride! Exciting all the way. I have tried several different genres during these three decades – from fiction, non-fiction, scripts for television. And of course, my regular columns in national dailies. I have had a ball! And still having one. A writer should take risks – and never feel afraid to try something new.

You’ve been indomitable, ahead of time and absolutely fearless when it comes to speaking your heart out. Where do you think you get this confidence from?

It comes from a space within. Remember that quote: To thine own self be true’? I try hard to live by that motto. If you cannot live with yourself and your own conscience, chances are you won’t be able to live successfully with anybody else! I like a good night’s sleep – the only way I can achieve that is by speaking up when I need to.

You are known for writing sexy books laced with wicked humour and satire. What all goes in your mind when you pen down your thoughts?

I guess I was born wicked! Even as a very young girl, my sense of humour got me into a lot of trouble. So many decades later, it still does! Call me irreverent… incorrigible, if you wish. But how do I change my DNA?

What do you have to say to all the women who look up to you as the superwoman, ready to take on the world head on?

I say, “Calm down, ladies!” I am no Superwoman. I am just a woman who calls a spade a spade.

Being a prolific writer, if I had to ask you the most challenging aspect of writing, what would your answer be?

To stay relevant after being in the business for over 40 years. To be able to connect with two generations of readers. To be able to hold your own in the face of so much fresh talent. The voices of the young are just fabulous! I am constantly over awed!

Given to the fact that you’ve penned down some great scripts in the past, and the web series being the next big thing these days, do you have any plans of writing for the web?

I am juggling three or four offers right now. Let’s see how those pan out. It’s a very exciting new avenue for writers – and I definitely want to be a part of it!

What is your mantra to deal with naysayers?

I do my job. They do theirs. Naysayers do not bother me in the least.

 What keeps you going?

Curiosity. And white wine.

What is the secret behind your ever glowing face?

Pond’s Cold Cream. I kid you not! Try it!

Your positivism is quintessential of living life to the fullest. What do you think makes life beautiful?

Every breath you take is a new opportunity. Why waste it?

What is it that you like to do when you are not working?

I work even in my sleep! I am a movie fanatic. I love art, photography, travel, music and food.

“The Jaipur Literature Festival – an international feast of cultural connections and new perspectives – is coming to Adelaide”. What are your comments on that?

What a fantastic destination to camp out in! This will be my second visit, and I am looking forward to engaging with readers and of course, co-writers!

Message for aspiring writers:

Read. Read. Read…..there is just no substitute. If you read a lot and climb inside the minds of writers, your own skills will get incredibly enhanced. Don’t get discouraged. Write a minimum of 600 words every single day of your life – I still do!