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Writer's pictureAjiva Talks

Interview with Sarbajit Chowdhury

Updated: Jun 25

Sarbajit Chowdhury

Sarbajit Chowdhury, an esteemed author and Assistant Professor at St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan, has carved a niche for himself in both academia and literature. He pursued his undergraduate studies at St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan, and furthered his education by completing a master's degree at The University of Burdwan.

Chowdhury's passion for reading, kindled in his childhood, naturally transitioned into a talent for writing. His literary journey began with his debut book, "Speaking from the Autumn of my Life," published in 2019. This work marked the start of a promising writing career, setting the stage for future successes. In 2021, he followed up with his second book, "The Sluggish Fire," further establishing his voice in contemporary literature.

Currently, Chowdhury is working on his first novel while continuing his role as a professor at St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan. His academic and literary pursuits reflect a deep commitment to both fields, showcasing his versatility and dedication.

Outside of his professional life, Sarbajit Chowdhury is a man of diverse interests. He is a passionate foodie and an avid follower of Bengali folk music and films, which enrich his cultural and creative perspective. In his leisure time, he enjoys reading and gardening, activities that offer him solace and inspiration.

Chowdhury believes in the power of hard and smart work and is on a continuous quest for peace and self-fulfillment. His journey, marked by confidence and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, highlights his dynamic approach to life. As a confident learner in his twenties, Sarbajit Chowdhury exemplifies the blend of academic rigor and creative exploration, making significant strides in his endeavors.

1. Can you share with us your journey as an author, from your debut book "Speaking from the Autumn of My Life" in 2019 to your latest work and ongoing projects?

 

>It is always an incredible journey. I started of in 2019 and it got kicked off in 2020 and touchwood in 2023 Josh Talks! Touchwood! Today wherever I am is the result of my faith in myself and hard work. The blessings of God and my parents have always been my biggest support. From Burdwan to Frankfurt Book Fair 2023 indeed a long journey! Best years of my life.

 

2. Being both an author and an assistant professor, how do you balance your time between writing and teaching at St. Xavier’s College Burdwan? Are there any synergies between your role as a professor and your passion for writing?

 

>The credit goes to the skill of multi-tasking that I have learnt during my college days from my mentor. I try to always differentiate and understand my roles in both the places. When I am in college I am always try to finish the work there and when I am home I try to concentrate on my writings. Though this line often gets blurrr! But I manage it. It’s the art that I have learned from the years of experience.

 

3. You have participated in various literary events and panel discussions. Could you tell us about your experience as a resource person in the Yatha Katha International Film Festival and the panel discussion on "To Be an Author" organized by Maniben Nainavati Women’s College in 2021?

 

>Yatha Katha was a marvellous experience. This was my time on stage as an author and believe me I was nervous as well as excited. Still in my Instagram I have the posts with each and everyone in the event separately who have made me really comfortable. I really want to thank antara for believing in me. The Q&A session made me really confident and that after that I always tried my best to rock which ever stage I was in !

 

4. As a speaker on the webinar "Obligation Triumphs Passion" at Delhi Book Fair in 2021, can you elaborate on the message you aimed to convey and how it relates to your own philosophy of hard and smart work?

 

>When I attended this particular webinar, I was a MA student and was continuing my writing career.  I tried to make the student that we can balance both our triumph and passion hence there is no need to choose once. But, yes! we need to strike a proper balance between the two. It is possible till the passion becomes a profession.

 

5. Your involvement in social issues is evident from your participation in events like the Woman Conclave on Domestic Violence. How do you think literature and writing can contribute to raising awareness and addressing societal issues?

 

>See I always feel that literature is a reflect of the society. Today as a writer it is our responsibility to put forward all the social evils and raise voice against all of it. Our readers are our supporters and if we could spread awareness by our writing through them it becomes one of the best combinations. Hence, it I feel writing is a great medium for spreading awareness.

 

6. You've received numerous awards and accolades, including the Best Poetry Book at the Indian Literary Award 2021. How do these recognitions impact your approach to writing, and what motivates you to continue contributing to the literary world?

 

>Awards always makes us feel good about our work. It does motivate us to move forward with the array of our work. But with these accolades and awards come the great responsibility to serve our readers with the best. Hence, though I write for awards? No! for me the greatest award is when my work is being appreciated! that’s what keeps me going! That is the biggest award any artist receives.

 

7. As an avid reader and a foodie, how do your personal interests influence your writing? Are there specific literary or culinary influences that manifest in your work?

 

>My reading habit influences my work. The character or the plot that I read I live that, I experience each and every emotion as my own and leaves a deep impression on me. As I create something of my own it does have the impression of what I read. But food! Is all about love and enjoyment!

 

8. You've been featured in various media outlets and magazines. How do you handle the intersection of personal and public life, especially considering the wide coverage you've received?


>I always put forward only those things which are made for public viewing and what personal is completely to me and not out for the world to view. I try to maintain a strict a line based on this. Loosing your emotions to the world can be dangerous. Josh Talk is the first platform where I have talked about my personal life struggle for the first time, it took me years to gather this courage.

 

9. Attending the world’s largest book fair in Frankfurt as a chief guest in 2023 must have been a remarkable experience. Could you share some highlights from that event and your thoughts on the global reception of your work?

 

>It was my dream to go to foreign and settle. I am the first from my family to not only to go foreign but also invited as a guest in the world’s largest bookfair. As you ask this question I am reminded hoe nervous I was when I sat on the flight to Germany. An inquisitive guy, try to act normal and live the fullest at the present moment. Same was the case when I walked the Book Fair then the UKiyoto Stall. That was surreal. When readers came and fetched my book in front of me was a sense of fulfilment and happiness. Touchwood!  The interview at the book fair was the best part. Can’t imagine a guy who could barely talk in the class was giving interview in a foreign land! Omg! indeed  a dream come true moment.

 

10. Your journey includes being a cover star for magazines like The Book Hub and Passion Review. How do you view the role of media coverage in shaping an author's career, and how has it impacted your own trajectory in the literary world?


>Gone are the days when you will be only known for your work! what you also need to work on is your PR strategies and your social media. To be true I got the recognition and fame after the features. People started taking me more seriously now-a-days. People need to know about your work and that happens through media. So, the quality of your work and support from media houses goes hand in hand and that’s the new normal.


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