In conversation with Medha Dutta Yadav, Shivani Sibal talks about the layers that form the theme in her debut novel, and how it is a simple story of two friends, and their families.
Is this book a product of the pandemic?
On the contrary, this book got finished despite the pandemic. I was already far into it when the lockdown began. The closure of schools meant a huge change in routine, in that my children were always at home, and my older daughter needed more time and attention with learning shifting online. I used to write early in the morning, around 5 am, while everyone else was asleep.
How difficult was creating Lutyens’ Delhi of the 1980s?
Even though I was a young child then, I have vivid memories of the time. Any research material that I read came alive easily in my mind’s eye because of that.
Are the characters from real life?
Most fiction is, somewhere, drawn from our life experiences. But none of the characters in this book are modelled on anyone specific. It would have been an easier process to write about the people I’ve met, but it might have been a tad bit lazy and unfair.
The story is about change. How relatable is it today?
We are all part of and witness to change, in one form or the other. I hope that the reader will be able to instantly relate to many things that I’ve written about. Delhi, specifically, has completely transformed in my lifetime, and that transition is one of the themes that I explore.
Between Aahan Sikand and Rajesh Kumar, who was more difficult to flesh out?
Both. My father died when I was very young, and I don’t have a brother. I have grown up largely surrounded by very headstrong and determined women. Writing from the perspective of a man was very challenging.
The story talks about how relationships evolve and change with time. Isn’t that the reality?
That relationships age and change—some more gracefully than others—is a timeless fact. We can only hope that each one leaves us more enriched, whatever the circumstances.
The character of Maha-Maharajji is intriguing. Tell us more.
I have never followed any guru, seer or godman, and never visited any ashram run by one. Yet, the character of Maha-Maharajji came to me, fully formed, down to the last detail. Must be a miracle!