Revelations De style

Shobhaa De, a literary heavyweight in her own right, has done everything from changing the face of film journalism in India, to dabbling in fiction, written memoirs, experimented with young adult literature and everything in between.

In a tête-à-tête ahead of TATA Literature Live, where she will be making an appearance, she talks about her stint in journalism, current scenario in film journalism and her writings. The festival is slated to be held at NCPA and Prithvi Theatre, from November 17 to 20.

What are Indian literature festivals doing right, according to you? And what are they doing wrong?
I like the informality of our litfests. I like that some of them are more like melas with a picnic like atmosphere. Some are studiedly 'erudite'.

Others are about the lovely location and little else. I like that more and more cities are staging such festivals, implying there is still a healthy interest in books and authors. Some throw in song-and-dance in the evenings. And of course, the ones that succeed spectacularly are those where alcohol flows as generously as ideas.

Could you comment on the state of journalism/reporting in Bollywood today? If you were to take up the mantle of editor again, how differently would you handle things?
I wouldn't dare take up such a mantle! Back then, it was fun to be an irreverent editor. Today, you risk your life for trying to break a few stupid rules.

Bollywood is filled with control freaks these days... the worst being the handlers of stars. A PR manager throws more airs than the star. Every aspect of Bollywood is carefully calibrated leaving zero room for fun. In such an environment, it is terrible to see even a Karan Johar being pushed into a corner and swearing off Pakistani talent in future projects.

Giving in to local bullies is the first step towards total surrender. Soon the same bullies will dictate themes and stories that can / cannot be filmed. And force feed audiences on what 'the mob' wants to see on screen... including which stars to sign. There is no journalism left - everything is up for sale. Bollywood is so blah because the game has totally changed. You get as much coverage as you can buy - that's it.

How did your career as a journalist and editor help your writing skills?
Well, it certainly worked for me. As a reporter/journalist you hone several skills. You learn to observe keenly. Hear keenly. Report fairly. Maintain deadlines. This helps your fiction. I will always remain that curious journalist looking for an angle, in any situation. I am permanently in search of a story.

People believe you made publishing history with Stardust. Do you agree with this statement?
That is just so pompous and self-aggrandising. I believe I had an enormous amount of fun. That's it.

What's on your bookshelf these days?
Arshia Sattar's Ramayana for Children. That's going to be my Diwali gift to my grandkids.