Zany doctors, crazy romance

Jas Kohli's book, 'Lights! Scalpel! Romance!' is as the name suggests a story that happens in a doctor's life; scenes from the hospital, his personal life and love, all make an appearance laced with ample dose of humour. "Doctors aren't from another planet. They often take the help of humour to ward off the inevitable stress. And when the doctors are zany, as are the characters in 'Lights! Scalpel! Romance!', lot of funny situations do happen," shares the author during an interview

What made you take out time from your medical profession to write 'Lights! Scalpel! Romance!'?

I have been an avid reader since I was a child. But because of the rigors of medical profession, the writer in me was condemned to remain underground. But as they say, it is never too late.

Although my habit of sleeping late has made me the butt of many jokes amongst friends, it has proved to be a boon for my writing. I feel late night is the best time for flowering of thoughts and ideas.

How much of the book is based on true incidents?

I confess that many of the scenes described in the book actually happened during my career. This implies that some of the characters were inspired by real life personalities. In fact I have not dared to gift my book to some doctors because of the same reason.

Tell me something about the chief protagonist of your novel.

Dr Nipun is a prankster with average looks and below average luck especially when it comes to finding love. However, perseverance is his main strength which helps him redeem himself in the eyes of his hard to please boss.

What is the essence of your novel

Although it is an entertainer, there is lot of food for thought. One can peep into the lives of surgeons including their joys and sorrows and even get to know what goes on behind the closed doors of the operation theatre. Also there is an attempt to better doctor patient relationship.

You are one of the few humour fiction writers in the country. How easy or difficult it is to write comedy?

Comedy is a serious job. Although there are techniques for writing it, it is basically instinctive. But lot of re-writing is required. I feel happy to put smiles on the faces of my readers.

Your first fiction book was titled, 'Anything to Look Hot'. What does this imply?

This means that some persons would go to any extent to look hot, including undergoing cosmetic surgery. This novel is based on the interesting experiences of a plastic surgeon

How has been your journey during the writing and publication of this book?

For my first book the journey was long and arduous. For 'Lights Scalpel Romance', the going was comparatively easy and I was fortunate to be published by Rupa, an iconic publisher.