“Some facets of life are predetermined”

Ritu Sharma was a writer, scholar, and an educationist. She had extensively studied both philosophy and astrology. She had written a column for one of India’s leading newspapers, The Indian Express, and a series for a US-based magazine called Little India. Her first book – The Householder – was an insight into the changing role of women in Indian marriages. Her second book is Karma Sutra: An Insight Into How Our Deeds Influence Our Destiny. Unfortunately, Ritu left for her heavenly abode some time back. Here’s a brief chat All About Book Publishing had with her, when her book Karma Sutra was launched.

The inspiration behind the book…

“The inspiration behind writing was to make sense of the paradoxes and the incongruences that surround human existence,” told Ritu. “My book explores the working of the Law of Karma and its implication on the various aspects of our life. It helps us to understand that while some facets of our life are predetermined we also have the privilege of free will to create our destiny. My book also draws upon the epic Mahabharat to reflect on how our Karmas are responsible for our uneven and incomplete lives. It simultaneously imparts to us the wisdom that the only way to better our life is by adhering to duty. The choice to do so – as always – rests with us,” she said.

On asking about the target audience of the book, she had replied, “Anyone who is curious to know about how Karma really works, regardless of the age group or walk of life, is my target audience.”

Journey as an author…

“Well, I would say that my journey as an author has been challenging but fruitful. I suppose, like most writers there are days when no words flow into my head and I feel like I have reached a cul-de-sac. But there are also days when it is sheer joy to pen down my thoughts effortlessly,” she told.

“Primarily I try to keep my writing simple so that I am able to communicate the idea to my audience. Otherwise the very purpose of writing, I believe, is defeated,” told Ritu.

Hardest part of writing a book…

“The hardest part has to be the isolation. When you are a part of an organization, it’s wonderful to have people around you with whom you can communicate, share a laugh, have a cup of coffee. But during the process of writing, hours pass by and you realize you haven’t spoken a word. As a social being that can be very challenging at times,” she said.

Advice to debut writers…

“I don’t know about advice, but I would definitely caution them that writing a book is a lesson in patience and although you are your own boss, without discipline you will never be able to reach the finishing line,” she told.

Experience with publisher…

“My experience with my publisher HayHouse has been most encouraging; they have been supportive and congenial throughout the process. What I liked the most about them was the fact that unlike other stories that I had heard of the publishers taking ages to revert, they were very prompt in their decision regarding the book,” told Ritu.

Unfortunately, Ritu is not amongst us today. May her soul rest in peace!