- Ahmedabad Book Club organizes “An Evening with Sumant Batra”.
- Renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj had offered to make a film based on this book but the author has yet not decided on this offer so far
GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
Leading insolvency lawyer and writer Sumant Batra launched the nation’s best-selling book ‘Anarkali’ authored by him at Alliance Francaise d in Ahmedabad on Saturday.
It was organised by Ahmedabad Book Club as part of “An Evening with Sumant Batra” event.
The evening featured the celebrated author Sumant Batra, who captivated the audience with an engaging discussion on his latest book, “Anarkali.” Batra shared personal anecdotes, the creative process behind his writing, and the historical and cultural influences that shaped his narrative. His eloquent storytelling and deep insights resonated with the attendees, sparking lively discussions and a profound appreciation for his work.
When asked what kindled him to write this historical fiction, Sumant Batra said, “Five years ago, a tour guide in Fatehpur Sikri showed me a locked door, and said that Anarkali had escaped to Delhi through it. That conversation intrigued me so much that I set out on a path to find the truth about this woman.”
“I have tried to piece together the puzzle that surrounds this woman (Anarkali) whose silhouette is all that we have known, giving her an identity, a name, a family, and a life beyond the tragic love affair she has come to be identified with. What comes forth is a saga, fresh and compelling, reflecting the experience of a woman navigating social structures in the Mughal Empire and bearing the consequences of asserting her desires,” added Batra, an insolvency lawyer of global eminence.
Shraddha Ahuja Ramani, the president of the Ahmedabad Book Club, shared her thoughts on the event, stating, “We are thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiastic response to Batra’s talk. His ability to weave history and fiction together is truly remarkable, and it was an honor to host such an esteemed author. Events like these not only enrich our understanding of literature but also strengthen our community’s love for reading and learning.”
She added, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sumant Batra for his inspiring presence and to all who attended and contributed to making this event a grand success. The Ahmedabad Book Club remains committed to fostering a vibrant literary community and looks forward to hosting more such enriching events in the future.”
Interestingly, the book was launched by renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj in December 2023. Impressed by the story, Bhardwaj has even offered to make a film on the book.
When one of the reporters asked about the author’s response, Batra said, “I have not taken any decision on this far.”
The event was attended by a diverse group of literature enthusiasts, including members of the press, academics, students, and avid readers, all eager to gain a deeper understanding of Batra’s literary journey.
