When writing about the Indian sub continent, an author must keep
in mind the preconceived notions, their reader’s most typically ascribe to the region.
Too most, Indian literary is no much than a cast of literature, encapsulating
the wonder and mystery of the East. As such they’re in no mood for tales of
advancement and modern infrastructure; they can look out of the window for
that. No, they yearn for the ‘authentic’ Indian experience, that ‘temple of
doom’ styled thriller, or ‘slum dog’ success story, and as an author you aim to
please on that very front…
A story is only as intriguing as it’s character line-up, and
in a population of over 1 billion you are certainly spoilt for choice. Your
protagonist may fit between one of four categories; the brazen hunter in
pursuit of a fearsome beast, the intrepid traveler in search of life’s meaning,
the impoverished beggar rising though the dregs of society and the determined
activist wrapped in loin cloth resolute in their quest for equality and equal
rights. As one might suspect their entourage might include the sweetheart, the
possessive in-laws, the wearisome confidant and those more time-honored
narratives, the maniacal witch doctor and spoilt maharaja.
The cast now set, the stage lies before us. India is a land as
ancient as time itself, and therefore are character should by no means find
themselves in bustling metropolises or industrial town, rather the winding
streets of a bazar or the spectacular grounds of a lake palace should serve as
your ideal backdrop. For those more culture- bound readers one might even opt
for the timeworn temples set against the banks of the river Ganges.
The consolations must dominate the skies above, elephants and
all manner of beast the land below. Every small detail must build towards the
Indian ethos, comprised of mystique, ancient custom and Sanskrit. Like a bowl
of spice, the it must culminate in a visceral encounter, engaging all the
reader’s senses as they dwell deeper into the plot and world, galvanized by your
approach.
Building of this notion make sure to elude to the nations
many cultural and societal nuances, be it the colorful festival of Holi, animal
sacrifices to the god Khali, the more unusual and farfetched, the better. A land
of extremes; excess and of extreme poverty all these polarities and more must
be recognized if a true sense of the culture and society is to be provided.
India is a land pulsating with a spectacular mix of people,
tradition and landscapes. As a writer it is your responsibility to take the
reader on a journey through this mind-stirring country that would create an
experience that would blaze their memory long after they’ve left its shores.
Snake charmers, curries and call centers; that is what the better half of the world
know of India, and as such serve as the fundamental blocks if you hope to offer
the ‘authentic’ Indian experience.
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