Welcome to our author interview series, where we delve into the minds and hearts of literary creators. Today, we have the pleasure of introducing Neerja Bhatt, whose words paint worlds and emotions in vibrant hues, inviting readers on unforgettable journeys. Join us as we uncover the inspiration behind the pen and the stories that have captured our imaginations.
Camelia: Hello! Please tell us something about yourself.
Neerja: Hi! I am Neerja Bhatt, a high school senior from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. I am a passionate writer, reader, pianist, and sometimes baker! I published my first book: ‘The Bad Era: Part I’ in 2021 at the age of 14, and got media coverage for the same in popular newspapers like Ahmedabad Mirror, Gujarat Samachar, Divya Bhaskar, Chitralekha, and more!
Camelia: ‘The Bad Era’ books are very thoughtful, with several profound and philosophical topics being talked about. What inspired you to write them in the very first place?
Neerja: I was twelve when I got the idea for the books amidst the COVID-19 lockdown. I thought of how the pandemic was like ‘Karma’ coming back at us for all our heinous deeds as a society: climate change and brutal crimes to name a few. I realised that this was ‘The Bad Era’ and that we had been living in it for a really long time. I started elaborating on the idea and eventually expanded it into a duology.
Camelia: What is your favourite part from the book?
Neerja: I love all the meaningful conversations that the protagonist ‘Anokhi Aganagai’ has with her two best friends. Those scenes highlight the comfort that lies in the trio’s bond. In the second book, Anokhi finally resolves the mystery behind her broken family and shares a poignant moment with whatever family she has left. That scene is always heartwarming to revisit.
Camelia : As a teen author, your writing journey must have been quite unique. What was it like and what were some of the biggest challenges you faced?
Neerja: Since I wrote and published both the books while still being in high school, it was challenging to balance schoolwork and bookwork. Especially when I had exams nearing, I had to put writing on a backseat. Having nobody to guide me through the writing process, I had to learn everything on my own with help of YouTube, and I felt quite lost sometimes!
Camelia: Are you coming up with next books? Any hints, when are we readers going to get to read them?
Neerja: Currently, I am not working on any new novel as I am busy with my twelfth grade. However, I ensure to stay in touch with writing through short stories, poems and articles.
I have a document on my laptop where I have dumped random story ideas that could potentially turn into novels one day, and I would love to use them to write more books in the future!
Camelia : You are a fabulous young author! What tips would you like to give to new writers who aspire to be like you?
Neerja: Keep going! On some days you will be flying through your story but on other days, you will find it arduous to get even a word out! And that’s okay! Trust the process and let it come naturally to you. Writing is supposed to be fun so don’t stress over it too much. Feel free to reach out to me for any questions. You can follow my Instagram page: (@neerjabhatt_) or visit my website (www.neerjabhatt.com).
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As our interview draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Neerja Bhatt for sharing her insights and passion with us. May her words continue to inspire and resonate with readers far and wide, enriching lives with the magic of storytelling. Until we meet again between the pages of their next masterpiece, let's carry the light of their words in our hearts.
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