Ask Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni - Wednesday, May 15th! discussion

Welcome to the group! Chitra will be answering questions throughout the day on Wednesday, May 15th in this thread only. In the meantime if you have a question for Chitra or just want to introduce yourself feel free to do so in this thread.

Namaste Chitra - My name is Didi - One of my favorite books of all time is One Amazing Thing and I just wanted to thank you for your work and for doing this Q&A

HI, I also enjoyed "One Amazing Thing". Do you carry some of the same charaters into the new book?

Hello! I'm a winner of "Oleander Girl" giveaway, which I'm currently reading and profoundly enjoying. There is no question so far, but just wanted to express my fondness and appreciation of Chitra's marvelous storytelling, opulent language and enthralling story lines. THANK YOU! Big fan!

Hello! This is such a great opportunity, and I'd like to say thank-you for answering questions , and thank-you Goodreads for hosting this!

I completely agree with Yana-- the way you use language makes every detail and moment come alive in my mind.

I'm 22, in my Master's program for Literature Studies, and currently trying to finish my first young adult fantasy novel. Sometimes, with my writing, the fear of failure stops me in my tracks. Have you ever had a project crippled by that fear? And do you have any advice for young writers just starting out?

Hello, Chitra, I was so excited to receive the invite to this group and learn that you have written another book. My name is Diane and I was your author escort at the LA Times Festival of Books about ... 4? or 5? years ago? So I wanted to say hello! I thorougly enjoyed Arranged Marriage: Stories and One Amazing Thing -- have you ever considered a sequel for that one?

I am SO disappointed that I missed you when you were at Diesel and Vromans (I just checked your website). I do look forward to reading your new book.

I am a huge fan of your work, and I especially enjoy your short stories. Images from Arranged Marriage have stayed with me for years (e.g., smashing the new widow's bangles against the bed post). I think a short story is really something special--a good one is a perfect little slice of time and place, a crystalline distillation of what's important, what's special, what's moving. As a writer who works in the short story form and in novels, can you speak to what, for you, is unique and special about each form? (And perhaps what is challenging about each?) I also very much enjoyed your book of poetry. Will there be more poems for us in the future?

Hello Chitra, the first book I read of yours was Arranged Marriage : Stories which I really enjoyed. I also read Sister of my Heart which I also loved. I saw the film adaptation of your novel, The Mistress of Spices. Did you like the film?

Being originally from India, I am drawn to books by South Asian authors and am so glad that there are relatively so many more books being published by them. Do you have a favorite?

Hello, Chitra, I was so excited to receive the invite to this group and learn that you have written another book. My name is Diane and I was your author escort at the LA Times Festival of Books about ... 4? or 5? years ago? So I wanted to say hello! I thorougly enjoyed Arranged Marriage: Stories and One Amazing Thing -- have you ever considered a sequel for that one?

I am SO disappointed that I missed you when you were at Diesel and Vromans (I just checked your website).

I look forward to reading your new book.

Namaste Chitra,

I was captivated by The Mistress of Spices. I offer great praise for your ability to bring your stories to life, with sounds, fragrances, colors... the imagery and environment of your stories is so alive. I also read Palace of Illusions, and was equally engulfed in the character's emotions and surroundings.

I wonder if you could describe some of your inspiration - where does the wisdom in your stories and characters come from?

And could you also describe how you began writing - was this a childhood love that was always a gift, or did you find this gift later in life as an adult? Did you find any particular part of your training or education more impactful than another?

Thank you for the gift of your stories. They contain great life lessons and inspiration. And thank you for answering our questions.

Kindest Regards,

Tracy Wessel

Namaste Chitraji,

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your The Mistress of Spices but my absolute favorite is The Palace of Illusions.

My question is what inspired you to narrate the Mahabharata from Draupadi's point of view? I also want to know if you are planning to write another book based on Indian mythology.

Thanks for all ur lovely books and looking forward to your new one.

Regards,
Sahitya

Hello,

I teach your novel in 6th grade and am excited to have a question answered directly by you.

How do you create such authentic characters and do you stories have folkloric connections to the cultures you write about?

Thank you.

Tina Zaman

Hi Chitra, I have read almost all of your books and by far my fav one is Queen of Dreams (read it a few times). I love the details of the meadow...is that a real place?

Hello,

I have heard that you are writing a book which is a story of Ramayana, from the perspective of Sita. Is it true???

Hello Chitra,

My absolute favourite is Palace of Illusions. Every character's final journey is extremely moving and it took me a while to get over it.

What inspired you to write about one of the greatest epics (which has always been narrated in white and black about good and evil) and venture into the grey of it? Also, how much of it is fiction?

Regards,
Pavithra

Hi Chitra,
I'm doing a feature Indian authors drawing on the themes of epics, and I was wondering if you would like to comment :
What according to you is the narrative value that these epics have passed on?
And
Do you think the female characters embody a timeless statement on Indian patriarchy?

Enjoyed the reading and Q&A at The Asia Society in NY. You're very sweet and graceful.
Where do you find the biggest fan base/ book selling, US or India?

Hello Chitra,
I read one of your books : 'The Palace of Illusions' and absolutely loved it. It was very novel and an unique narrative in all of Mahabharat's renditions.
What I do wonder about is if you feel any dislike towards Panchali. I have tried reading ordinary Mahabharath, Karna's point of view and such where some aspects of Draupadi is in grey shades like any other. Would you care to elaborate why you chose Draupadi's point of view and if there is anything you feel differently from what is in your book already?
Isn't the end fictitious?
Happy writing and great going!

Hemalatha Venkatraman

HI Mam,
I am a great fan of you and i like your 'palace of illusions' it gives a different aspect about the Mahabharatha story and you wonderfully created Draupadi in a different outlook and you emote her emotions very well,and what is the reason for choosing 'Draupadi'as the central character of the story?And can u plz give the details about your future projects?

As a Bengali with roots in Calcutta and as an alumna of UH, I wish you continued success in your career and am thrilled every time your novels win national accolades. I grew up in the US, and Arranged Marriage: Stories was the first novel by a South Asian author that I ever read; I immediately felt connected to the characters. What inspired you to start writing?

Hello Chitra,
'One Amazing Thing' and 'The Palace of Illusions' was scintillating.


What I was wondering about is whether you could probably do a novel from the point-of-view of Kunti or Hidimba?

Hello Chitra,

A couple of years ago, in a college's course , I had to read some books related to the Indian Culture, and amongst them were "The White Tiger", by Aravind Adiga, and "The Mistress of Spices". I loved both books, but I was particularly impressed and mesmerized by the richness of your book. The opulence of the folklore, the rich imagery, makes every word, every feeling, every sound and color come alive. So my question is: are your characters inspired in people that crossed your life?

Best whishes,
Joana

Hello!

I first read "One Amazing Thing" and was so captivated by it, both by your exquisite writing and also the premise of it, that everyone has seen and lived through amazing things, and everyone has a story.

I am always trying to see the story in people I encounter and I'm wondering, when you are writing these widely varied characters, whether you're writing in first person or from a greater distance, are you inhabiting that person's skin, are they sitting just beside you or hovering over your shoulder, dictating? What is your experience of "interacting" with these characters who you present to us as real and whole and alive?

Thank you!

Rosie

I owe you for lifetime. For 32 years I was scared of books, specially the big fat ones. Palace of Illusions was just magical. I finished reading this book in a week as if I was spellbound... Since then, books have been my best friends. Look forward to reading many more of yours!

Hi!
I loved your,"The palace of illusions". The way the narrative flows, is beautiful! Especially, the way you portrayed her relationship, with each character I loved her flawed with ego and destiny relationship with Karna, with arjun and the mystic relationship with Krishna & other characters.
Is there a possibility, that you might write Ramayana in such a manner, maybe with either Sita or Mandodri's view?!
Looking forward to your future works!
Cheers!
Ritambhara Dixit

My daughter is a graduate student in literature and folklore, graduating with her MA this spring and interested in cultures and gender studies, and we both love all your books-but one of my very favorites is Mistress of Spices. The manner is which you bridge the world between fantasy and reality makes your characters so vital. I also love your short stories; they have such depth. I have been in India once briefly, and wish I could go again. Thank you for such beautiful work. Deborah Farquhar

Hi Chitra. I loved "Palace of Illusions". I have always wondered, what if Sita or Draupadi were to tell their story would the Ramayan or Mahabharat be different? And I found your take on Draupadi's story absolutely fascinating. I have a couple of questions for you: 1, was the bit about Draupadi's love for Karna there in the Mahabharat? Or was it 'creative licence' on your part? :) 2. Which among your books would you like to see as a movie? Thanks for your replies and I look forward to your upcoming titles. Adite Banerjie.

Dear Chitra,

I loved your book, the Conch Bearer. Though I just want to know, what inspired you to create the book, and who are the characters based off of?

Thank you for your time!

Namaste Chitra,

I just want to let you know that you are one of my favorite writer ever! I loved your book, specially Mistress of Spices, The Conch Bearer and Palace of Illusions.

My question is, did Oleander Girl will be translated and published in Indonesia? I can't hardly wait!

Thanks for your time and, oh, i hope you come and visit Bali someday ;)

Dydie

Hello Chitra,
I read your book "The Palace of Illusions". It was enchanting to read the way you gave voice to a much-misunderstood woman. My question is:
Did women of Mahabharata period have a more respectful and powerful position compared to the position of women today? (My question includes women of all classes and lifestyles)

Hi Chitra ji,
I read your book Oleander Girl. I liked the part played by her kin that she found, during her marriage. Question remains, could they have played a more prominent role, taking up the responsibility, in walking her at the ceremony?
Regards
Uma jiji

Hello Chitra,

The first of your books that I read were Sister of My Heart and The Vine of Desire. I was profoundly impressed by them and have been reading your books ever since (except for Oleander Girl, which is next). My question:

I love the way in some of your books you slip quietly over the boundary between reality and fantasy, and they meld together so perfectly. It is always exactly the right amount--it sends the reader into a new dimension, but never diverts one's attention away from the main story. It seems respectful of the reader--designed to increase our enjoyment without demanding that we pay attention to the use of "magic".

Do you plan to do this from the outset of the story, or does the story evolve to the point where it takes you into the other realm? What makes you decide to use fantasy, or conversely, leave it out?

Thank you,

Victoria

Hi,
I've really enjoyed most of your books and I think your writing is very rhythmic which makes it most enjoyable.
I want to ask you a very specific question about your novel 'The Palace of Illusions', which is, how do you react to accusations by critics that you've romanticized the character of Karna and thus distorted 'historical' facts?

Namoskar Kakima,

It has been an immense pleasure to converse with you directly, something which had never crossed my mind.

Firstly, let me congratulate you on creating such masterpieces. Believe me, they deserve a standing ovation!

Secondly, I've read Arranged Marriage and The Palace of Illusions. They way you portrayed your characters left me spellbound.

A question I would like to ask you - how do you begin to give a new dimension to the thoughts and behaviors of legendary characters of an ancient epic? I have started writing a book, but an unprecedented problem cropped up where i have to portray Ravan(the Demon of Ramayana) as a person having a perfect human anatomy. This i just to make sure the story has a smooth flow and not create a sudden turn of events. How do you think i should tackle this task?

Soumyo.

Hi Chitra,
I have enjoyed all your novels and am a great fan. As a historical novelist myself, I'm interested to know how and when you give yourself authorial liberty to manipulate historical events and add your own magical twist to your story.

Margo wrote: "Welcome to the group! Chitra will be answering questions throughout the day on Wednesday, May 15th in this thread only. In the meantime if you have a question for Chitra or just want to introduce y..."

Hello everyone! This is Chitra Divakaruni. Looking forward to our chat tomorrow! Thanks for joining me here and, most of all, for reading my books.

Dr. Chitra ji,
I have started a novel more than a decade back, at least 50 pages of A4 size are written. The story I wanted to discuss is also completed, I have not been able to complete it though...i háve actually pruned the story, it could be the reason why it is not done completely...
Regards
Uma jiji

Hi Mam,
Your novels are best companion for all time. I have read 7 novels of your's. In most of the novels, I noticed that you have highlighted some repeated symbols like blue colour, magical pot, magical mirror, lotus, parijat flower, conch and full moon day. What these symbols it signifies? And it would be pleasure if you share the reasons behind using these symbols in your novels? (I captured these symbols in "The Palace of Illusion", "The Mirror of Fire and Dreaming" and "Queen of dreams").

Hello Chitra,
I have been reading other group members messages/questions and most have covered anything I would , and some more knowledgeably than I.
So I shall just thank you for your delicious stories . And please write lots more .

Dear Chitra,

Hope you remember me from the Jaipur Festival a couple of years ago! I loved reading "Oleander Girl" as much as "Arranged Marriage", "Mistress of Spices" and "One Amazing Thing". You are such a compelling storyteller! My question is about the appeal of the orphan protagonist in fiction from Oliver Twist to Harry Potter (there are too many to recount)and now Korobi. All their stories are different but have a special hold on the reader. How did this character first enter your imagination? Also, is there some nostalgia for the old Kolkata that you left behind at work in this story?

Hi everyone! this is Chitra, checking in. I'm delighted to read all these great questions. I'll start answering them now, and I'll check in for more questions later today, so please feel free to ask more questions. And please tell your friends about this chat.

Didi wrote: "Namaste Chitra - My name is Didi - One of my favorite books of all time is One Amazing Thing and I just wanted to thank you for your work and for doing this Q&A"

Hi Didi, a pleasure to know that you enjoyed One Amazing Thing. I'm happy to let you know it's been optioned by Hollywood, so please keep your fingers crossed about a movie soon. Thanks for the good words and please put up more questions. I'll be happy to answer them.

Halina wrote: "HI, I also enjoyed "One Amazing Thing". Do you carry some of the same charaters into the new book?"

Hi Halina, a pleasure to meet you here on Goodreads. Glad you enjoyed OAT. The new novel, Oleander Girl, has completely different characters and is set in a slightly different time, 2002, and begins in the city of Kolkata. It then moves all across America, following the main character, Korobi, a young woman of 18, who is in search of a secret.

Yana wrote: "Hello! I'm a winner of "Oleander Girl" giveaway, which I'm currently reading and profoundly enjoying. There is no question so far, but just wanted to express my fondness and appreciation of Chitra'..."

Yana, So pleased that you are enjoying Oleander Girl. I had to do a lot of research for the book, especially on the historical events and the geographical settings (the new Kolkata, which has changed from the time I lived there, and New York after 9/11). Do write a Goodreads review once you've finished the book. I'd appreciate that greatly.

Tasia wrote: "Hello! This is such a great opportunity, and I'd like to say thank-you for answering questions , and thank-you Goodreads for hosting this!

I completely agree with Yana-- the way you use language ..."

Hi Tasia, Thanks for the good words. yes, I too struggle with fear of failure. Even when I was writing Oleander Girl, which is my 18th book, I was stuck for a while in the middle. In Oleander, was attempting my very first literary "mystery" and a novel that is more tightly plotted than any of my earlier ones. And I was quite worried that I wouldn't be able to pull it off. But one has to work through the fear. It helps me if I say, this is just a draft. I can always edit it. Good luck with your book!

Chitra,

I absolutely loved "The Palace of Illusions." I'm a big mythology buff and enjoyed learning more about Indian mytho-history. Do you have any plans to adapt further myths in novel form?

Thanks.

Diane D. wrote: "Hello, Chitra, I was so excited to receive the invite to this group and learn that you have written another book. My name is Diane and I was your author escort at the LA Times Festival of Books ab..."

Hi Diane, Great to hear from you. Sorry I missed you in LA this time. Would have been so nice to see you.
Please do sign up for my list at www.chitradivakaruni.com. I always announce my events to the group on the list before I go anywhere. I'm glad you enjoyed AM and OAT. no plans right now for those characters, but who knows what the future holds! OAT has been optioned by Hollywood, and one of the stories on AM, "The Word Love," was made into a short film that won an award. A couple of clips are on this site.
http://davidmesiha.com/2012/02/amar-m...

Jackie wrote: "I am a huge fan of your work, and I especially enjoy your short stories. Images from Arranged Marriage have stayed with me for years (e.g., smashing the new widow's bangles against the bed post). I..."

Hi Jackie,
thanks for the kind comments! I love working with short stories for the reasons you mention. They are like Chinese brush paintings for me. A few strokes, and you have to imply many unseen things. A novel is more like a tapestry--so many details lovingly added, to create a full world. Each has its challenges. I'm working on some short stories now and really enjoying them. Here's a poem I wrote recently for Texas Monthly on Houston's India Town. Unfortunately the online version doesn't show the line breaks (it shows more like prose, which kind of destroys the rhythm), but maybe you'll be able to figure out the line endings yourself. http://www.texasmonthly.com/story/hil...

Mona wrote: "Hello Chitra, the first book I read of yours was Arranged Marriage : Stories which I really enjoyed. I also read Sister of my Heart which I also loved. I saw the film adaptation of your novel, The ..."

Hi Mona, Glad you enjoyed AM and Sister! I liked the film of Mistress of Spices--now on Netflix, if anyone wants to watch it! It was more of a romantic story than the novel, which deals with some serious immigrant issues, using the techniques of magical realism and a main character who uses the power of spices to help the people who come with many problems to her Indian grocery.
There are some wonderful South Asian writers out there now. It's great to have such a richness of voices. Some of my favorites are Amitav Ghosh, Anita Desai and Rohinton Mistry.

Chitraji, I'm your fan and an aspiring writer. I wish to know how do you conduct research for your short stories-- do you physically visit the place you describe, and if yes, do you do it before you begin to write the story or you just sit and start writing, and research when you come to a point in the story where you have to do it?
Thanks and regards