ON WRITING WHICH FORAYS INTO THE REALMS OF EMOTIONS AND SPIRITUALITY

Author Interview: Farzana Sarup

Farzana Sarup is an author who enjoys writing for both children and adults. She has been a teacher for ten years and believes that writing is a beautiful medium to express oneself. After completing her schooling at Bombay Scottish, she graduated in Physiology and Sociology from Mumbai University. Her first book “Who am I?” is a children's book which was published in 2002 by Bright Sparks, Tata Info Media Limited. She has recently come out with the book “Grieve with Understanding”. She plans to write more books in the future. In a candid chat with Chirdeep Malhotra, she talks about her latest book, her writing journey, her favourite books and authors, and much more.


Please tell us more about Farzana Sarup as a person.

I am definitely a gypsy at heart, a wanderer, a seeker. Although I normally take life with a pinch of salt, I’m currently enjoying seeking and connecting with my inner soul through spiritualism.


Has writing always been a part of your life? Or did you chance upon it later on and then instantly fell in love with it?

Yes, writing has always been a part of my life. In fact, when I look back at all the times I've poured my heart out into my diary or shared my thoughts with my loved ones, I was subconsciously going through the stages of becoming a writer. What started of as a hobby gradually evolved as a beautiful medium for me to express myself.


Can you tell us more about your book “Grieve with Understanding”?

The book revolves around Mona, the protagonist who goes through different emotions at different stages in her life. It is only when her mother’s soul gets ready to transition into the next realm does Mona realize the importance of faith, detachment and forgiveness. The spiritual experiences that she witnesses during this time reassure her that life is merely a task that every soul has to fulfill.


How has the response of readers been to your book?

The book is about emotions, life, death and closure which I think is very real and pure. Hence, a lot of readers have been able to relate to the book at some level.


How did the idea of writing such a book which delves into the themes of family, relationships and spirituality come about?

The book is partially about the emotions I went through while my mother was losing her battle with cancer. Like Mona, I too was consumed with anger, bitterness and guilt until I learnt to accept the will of God. I wanted the readers to know that one can heal themselves through forgiveness, love and prayers and that although there is no such thing as a perfect goodbye, their loved ones will always be connected to them by the energy we share from the universe.


What are your favourite books? Can you share with our esteemed readers about the genres that you like and your favourite authors?

The Kite Runner, To Kill a Mockingbird, Village by the Sea are some of my favourite books. I enjoy reading non-fiction, horror and spiritual books. Ruskin Bond and Stephen King are two authors that I admire.


What do you think is the literary scenario in contemporary Indian English fiction?

Well I think a lot has changed but then again society is constantly changing. Fortunately the positive change has brought about new opportunities for writers as well as publishers. There are many books from different genres and by authors that are wonderfully written and that one would love to showcase on their bookshelf.


There are many new writers and poets who are aspiring to get their work published. What would you say to them?

Everyone has a brilliant story to tell. So, go ahead and be the opportunist who drinks that glass of water while the pessimist and optimist can't think beyond their imagination.


Can you share with our readers a motivational quote that keeps you going?

“Be a mighty mouse in the rat race”- Farzana Sarup, The not so lost soul.