WriterStory Interviews of Writers
Vibha Batra is an advertising consultant. She completed Masters in Communication. She has won Pratham Books Remix Contest, Plot a Plot Contest by Red Romances, Young Adult Fiction Contest by Gyaana Books, Readers Travelogue Contest by Conde Nast Traveller. Let us know more about her writing.
What inspired you to start writing?
I blame it on my genes! My late grandfather, Shri Vishnu Kant Shastri was an academic, sanskrit scholar, and prolific writer. I grew up reading his memoirs, travelogues, and poetry. When he passed away, I decided to translate his book on the Ishaavaasya Upanishad into English. It was published by Rupa Publications in 2007. Until then, I was perfectly content being a copywriter.
What did you like to read when you were a girl?
Excusez moi, I still consider myself a girl. A young adult, if you will. And I still read everything I can get my hands on. Except horror. Shudder!
What is the greatest challenge in writing a book?
I’m one of those crazy authors who likes to romanticize the writing process. Having said that, tearing yourself away from the hypnotic charms of social media – now that’s a toughie!
How much research do you do before writing the book?
May I just say that life and all the people we meet along the way and all the experiences we have are the best research one can possibly ask for. Yup, even those annoying people we love to hate!
What motivated you to write the book “Glitter and Gloss”?
I’m always motivated to write. Especially stuff I’d like to read. And this once, I really wanted to write an out an out romcom, something fun/sweet/happy.
Can you tell us more about your latest book “Glitter and Gloss”?
It’s the story of Misha, a make-up artist who falls madly in love with Akshay. He’s reciprocates her love. The only problem? His stuck-in-her-ways Didi. She thinks Misha is everything a Bahu shouldn’t be. What happens next is a mad whirl of half-truths and lies and blunders and bloopers as Misha navigates the slippery slopes of in-law land…hey, just read the book!
How did you came up with the idea of writing romantic fiction genre book?
I’d written The Activist and The Capitalist right before this. And I’d enjoyed the process very much. I couldn’t wait to get started on my next romance novel. I think I’m pretty much hooked for life.
Who are your favourite authors?
My grandfather, the late Shri Vishnu Kant Shastri. I also love reading and rereading Bill Bryson, PG Wodehouse, Sophie Kinsella, JK Rowling, Marian Keyes. And Ogden Nash, Ghalib, Rumi, Jagdish Gupt, Shiv Om Amber, Harivansh Rai Bachchan are my favourite poets.
How much time do you dedicate for writing on a daily basis?
I’m an advertising consultant and I write (and face rejection) every single day. Sometimes even on Sundays. Yup, like all awful things, rejection never takes a holiday.
What words of wisdom would you like to give to aspiring writers?
If someone gives you unsolicited advice, run the other way.
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