Women Smashing Societal Stigma: The Story of Sindhu and the Power of Words

• Writing is a craft that needs practice.
• Change makes us stronger, more resilient and pushes one to think more, live more, and be more.
• Women’s issues are truly subjective and unique.
• Writing can be a weapon to influence and impact.

What Was the Start of Your Journey as a Writer Like? What Kind of Subjects and Pieces Did You Write Initially?

Before I was a writer, I was an ardent reader. I always loved to read – almost anything, and I think that led me to writing. By the time I was twelve, I knew I wanted to be a writer. At the beginning, I wrote stories, poetry, and essays. But I think I truly started to experiment with my writing after the publication of my first novel. At Edinburgh, as a Creative Writing master’s student, I went outside my comfort zone and tried tackling new subjects, new ways of writing. All these experiences have been truly enriching.

As a Seasoned Writer, What Is the Writing Process Like for You and What Have You Learned Along the Way?

Writing is a craft that needs practice. Anyone can write, but to be a good writer, I think it’s important to meditate with your words. To look deeper, let your words speak more, do more. When I started to write, I wrote a ton of words, but with every passing year, I began to see the beauty in brevity. I also saw the value of editing and reediting. I read more, experimented more, and rewrote more.

What Was a Turning Point in Your Career or Personal Life That Really Defined Who You Are Today?

I’ve had several such turning points, in both my personal and professional life. I often tell people that change is the only constant in my life. So, I can’t pick one. But I will say that change makes me stronger, more resilient and pushes me to think more, live more, and be more.

You Interviewed Many People and Carried Out Thorough Research to Bring Your Book, Smashing the Patriarchy, to Life. What Was This Journey Like and What Would You Consider Most Memorable?

Yes, it took almost four years to research and write it. The interviews were the best part of writing the book. Every woman I spoke to seemed to have a different viewpoint and a badass story to tell. I started to see how women, so different from one another, resisted and overcame the patriarchy in their everyday lives. I soon realized that that was the story I wanted to tell – that of power, perseverance, and panache. Moreover, I learned a ton from all the women I spoke to. With every interaction, I changed my own preconceived ideas – because women’s issues are truly subjective and unique. No one ideology or theory can explain all of it. So, I started to look for a multifocal lens through which to tell these young Indian women’s stories.

What Is One Women’s Issue That Is at the Center of Your Focus Right Now and How Are You Trying to Bring About a Change?

Sexuality. I think it’s important to talk about women’s sexuality. To liberate ourselves from the clutches of patriarchy, we need to own our sexualities, be our true selves and smash gender norms. Through my creative and critical writing, I hope I’m contributing towards this end.

Writing is an incredible craft we use every single day to express ourselves. All of our writing journeys are different but we are all working towards one goal that many don’t believe women can reach. Success. And Sindhu won’t stop until she fulfills her goals and goes beyond.