"Life isn’t black and white, and neither are people. A morally ambiguous character allows me to delve into questions of right and wrong, justice and survival, in a way that feels authentic."
Q. Your debut novel, The White Tiger, resonated with readers globally and earned the Man Booker Prize. How did the idea for the novel come about?
The White Tiger was born out of years of observing the stark contrasts in modern India. I was fascinated and disturbed by how rapid economic growth seemed to coexist with deeply entrenched poverty and inequality. The character of Balram Halwai was my way of bringing to life a perspective that is often overlooked—that of the millions living on the margins. Balram’s journey represents ambition, moral conflict, and survival within a system that is deeply unfair. I wanted to capture his voice—sharp, witty, and brutally honest—to shed light on the realities of those struggling to find a foothold in today’s India.
Q. Your work often explores themes like inequality, corruption, and aspiration. Why do these themes resonate so strongly with you?
I think these themes are central to understanding the world we live in today, especially in a country like India. The stark divide between the wealthy and the underprivileged is not just an economic gap; it’s a divide of opportunities, access, and dignity. Literature offers a unique lens to explore these issues at a deeply human level. I’m particularly drawn to the stories of those who navigate these inequities with resilience, sometimes bending or breaking the rules to carve out their place in the world. It’s these stories of struggle and survival that make for compelling narratives.
Q. Your characters, particularly Balram in The White Tiger, are often morally ambiguous. Why do you find such characters compelling?
Life isn’t black and white, and neither are people. I’ve always been fascinated by the gray areas in human behavior. A morally ambiguous character like Balram allows me to delve into questions of right and wrong, justice and survival, in a way that feels authentic. These characters challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and themselves. Through Balram, for example, I wanted readers to grapple with the idea that sometimes, survival in an unjust system requires choices that might seem unethical.
Q. You’ve worked as a journalist before transitioning to fiction. How has journalism influenced your approach to writing novels?
Journalism was an invaluable training ground. It taught me how to observe the world closely and write with clarity and precision. Reporting on a wide range of topics, from politics to culture, gave me insights into the complexities of human behavior and society. Journalism also instilled in me a sense of discipline—the ability to meet deadlines and work within constraints. When I write fiction, I bring those skills with me, along with a commitment to grounding my stories in reality.
Q. You’ve often been praised for how vividly you depict urban India in your books. What inspires your portrayal of cities and their challenges?
Urban India is a microcosm of the larger changes happening across the country. Cities are spaces where tradition and modernity collide, where opportunity and inequality exist side by side. They’re incredibly dynamic—full of energy, innovation, and chaos. I’m drawn to these contrasts. For instance, in The White Tiger, Delhi is as much a character as Balram, reflecting the aspirations and tensions of its inhabitants. Cities tell their own stories, and through my writing, I try to capture their evolving identities.
Q. Your writing style is often described as sharp and uncompromising. Do you consciously adopt this tone?
I think the tone of a novel should serve its subject matter. In the case of The White Tiger, Balram’s voice demanded sharpness and candor because that’s how he perceives the world. He’s not sugarcoating anything; he’s telling it like it is. That’s the kind of honesty I aim for in my writing. I want readers to feel immersed in the world of my characters and to confront the realities they’re facing without filters.
Q. You’ve been a voice for the voiceless in many of your stories. Do you see literature as a tool for social change?
Literature might not directly change the world, but it has the power to influence how people think and feel. It can shine a light on issues that are often ignored or misunderstood, fostering empathy and dialogue. By telling the stories of those who are marginalized, I hope to create a space where their voices are heard. At the very least, literature can challenge the status quo and encourage readers to see the world through different eyes.
Q. What challenges have you faced as a writer in depicting the complexities of India?
India is incredibly diverse—linguistically, culturally, and economically—which makes it both a treasure trove of stories and a challenging landscape to portray authentically. Balancing these complexities while avoiding stereotypes is always a challenge. I also try to stay true to the nuances of my characters’ experiences without imposing my own judgments. This requires a lot of research, empathy, and imagination.
Q. Can you tell us about your upcoming projects? What can readers look forward to?
I’m currently working on a novel that focuses on how technology is reshaping identity and relationships in India. It’s a subject I find both exciting and unsettling. Technology has opened up incredible opportunities but also created new forms of alienation and inequality. The story explores how individuals adapt to this rapidly changing landscape, often in unexpected ways. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m eager to see how it unfolds.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring writers who look up to you?
First and foremost, read widely. The more you read, the better you understand the craft of storytelling. Write consistently, even when it feels difficult, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and genres. Most importantly, be honest in your writing. Tell the stories that matter to you, and don’t worry about pleasing everyone. Good writing takes time, so be patient and trust the process.
BIO :
Aravind Adiga, born on October 23, 1974, in Chennai, India, is a celebrated author and journalist. His debut novel, 'The White Tiger', won the Man Booker Prize in 2008, earning global acclaim for its incisive critique of class inequality and ambition in modern India. A former journalist for 'Time' magazine, Adiga's works, including 'Last Man in Tower' and 'Selection Day', reflect his keen observations of societal complexities. He remains a powerful voice in contemporary literature, blending sharp wit with profound storytelling.
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