I am a writer, academic, filmmaker. Teach broadcast studies at University of Delhi. When not in a classroom I write stories. My work has been published in various newspapers and journals. The short story and the long essay are two forms I enjoy reading and writing most. My work usually explores areas of masculinity, feminism, cinema and urban life. Once upon a time I was a media professional, worked with the Times of India and NDTV. Now I breathe amidst words, chai and youthful students. I live in Delhi, India, without a dog or cat.
Years back, when I studied in Carmel Convent, Delhi, one day my friend was called to the Principal’s office. G was an invisible girl, like me. We were the kind who always sat in the first three rows in class, but were somehow always invisible to the teachers and fellow class mates. Not that they […]
By Saadat Hasan Manto – “Arrey, who cares for what Manto bhai writes? Manto has a habit of splitting hairs,” said Khan into the receiver before he hung up. He spread his legs some more so some air passes through his tight denims, his tall frame was sprawled on the sofa in his vanity van. […]
The first time I saw my father cry was when I was in my late twenties. I am sure he had cried before, perhaps many-a-times. Of-course, he must have cried before.From that day, till today, I have wondered on where he cried before? At his office, in the bathroom as he showered(tears unseen even to […]
A friend of mine who was doing the matrimonial rounds told me some wonderful stories. Unfortunately, the stories settled with her matrimonial ‘settling’. She said,’When nothing else worked on an ill-suited suitor, who was pursuing her despite her dis-interest, then finally, she use to fire the Ram baan, i.e ‘ I am a feminist’. ‘I […]
Teaching was supposed to be a transit career for me. A place where we wait, chat with strangers, sit to read a book, have a relaxed cup of tea- till it is time to board a flight again- for home this time. After seven wonderful years I am still in transit. The cup of tea, […]