BENGALURU: Sudeep Nagarkar was around 23 years old when he released his first novel — A Few Things Left Unsaid — in 2011. Little did he know, that not only would the book turn him into a best-selling author, but readers would clamour for more. The next two years saw him release two more novels, both again instant hits.
His fourth novel, You’re the password to my life, was launched on January 10 in the city, where the author interacted with his fans and read from his book. Based on a true story, like all of his novels, the latest book is all about friendship. “Through this book, I want to tell people that a boy and a girl can be friends forever. Since childhood, we are inundated with all kinds of media, where people from opposite genders, meet, become friends and eventually fall in love. No one talks about the people who do end up staying friends. I’m telling their story,” says Sudeep.
The novel is based on Sudeep’s cousin’s life and according to the author, is filled with positive messages that the readers can take away. “The ultimate takeaway is of course that we live in a world where superficial friendships have become the norm. Social media has changed the way we look at some of our core relationships. I want to tell people that we need to take a moment and look at the people we really value in our lives, and make a conscious effort to give them enough space to thrive,” says the young author.
According to him, trust in relationships has been lost. “People forget to give their partners and friends enough space. We’re always waiting for the next ping on Whatsapp or a reply on Facebook. Take a step back,” he advises his readers.
Although a prolific writer, Sudeep doesn’t consider himself a very disciplined one. “Once I get going though, it takes me less than a month to complete a book. I depend on motivation from my close friends and family to complete my work,” he says.
An engineering student, who consequently completed his Masters in management studies, Sudeep turned author after a break-up. “It was my way of understanding what had happened and getting over it,” he says.
While he faced stiff opposition from his family when he decided to turn into a full-time writer, over time he was able to convince them. Currently, Sudeep also writes for television and is working on a concept for Sony and Colors. Next year, he hopes to start work on his fifth book.
Published by Ebury Press, You’re the Password to My Life is available at all bookstores at `175