Vandana Nittoor is a Bengalurean who is settled in New Jersey for the last two decades with her husband and two children. She talks about her debut novel, Banks of the Tamasa..
The book is a bold attempt at redefining Sita’s life. Aren’t you afraid of rubbing religious scholars the wrong way?
The Sita in my book is a courageous woman who handles the many challenges that her life poses, with great compassion. This book was an attempt to enable women to find a path to embrace their very own life with wisdom and kindness. I do not believe that my book in any way offends any religious scholars as the path assumed by my heroine is one that bears strong roots in a compassionate approach to life and its many vagaries.
You have quoted extensively from the Vedas, did you study the Sanskrit texts as part of your research?
As a child, I woke up each morning listening to the prayers of my grandfather. I have, what I think is, a working knowledge of Sanskrit but have at several points in my life searched for answers within our Upanishads. The verses quoted in the book are among a handful of favourites that have enabled me to make better sense of the world and my own small place in it.
There seems to be a philosophical side to your personality or was it the character of sage Valmiki that took over?
I have always been a deep thinker. Even to date introspection is a very strong element of my own personality. In my opinion, internal clarity enabled by clear consciousness makes external living both fearless and fruit filled.
You are a blogger, artiste, gourmet chef, an accountant and now a novelist. Which role do you enjoy most?
Each of them provide meaning to my life in their own way. The mathematical exaction of accounting appeals to me just as much as mixing colours on my palette.
Is there another book on the anvil?
Yes, I have an idea that I am yet to test and explore. I have started some of my research as to its viability and relevance. I believe people are responsible for the writings and images that they put out for the world to explore. I want to make sure my idea is in sync with my philosophy.
