By Deepa Damle

Indus Age had the pleasure of meeting Nandita Chakraborty, an Indian – Australian author on 10 May 2018, for the launch of her second book, Rosemary’s Retribution. Nandita’s publicist, Aisling, had picked The Bohemian Wine Bar in Docklands as the venue for the launch – eclectic and vibrant – just like the creatively inclined author. There was some classical entertainment set as a prelude to the launch itself. While showing off her father’s Filmfare Award which served as her motivator, Nandita spoke briefly about her early life, her schooling in India, a relationship breakdown and her love for writing from an early age. She recounted the horrific accident in 2011, which left her with a traumatic injury. It was difficult to fathom, that she had faced such an adversity not too long ago; but heartening at the same time, to see that she had come out on top.

Nandita’s new book, Rosemary’s Retribution, is set in Calcutta (or Kolkata as it is now known) during the emergency period. The plot contains everything…unconventional friendship, cultural differences, family secrets, but above all….love! Nandita’s face lit up as she spoke about how she believes that love wins over everything. She spoke lovingly of her family, her father who passed away a few years ago and it’s easy to see that it is indeed her driving force.

Her first book, Meera Rising, is also a book about love, with the central character breaking traditional conventions regarding gender and sexuality. Once again, cultural awareness is addressed with Nandita using the book as a medium to shine a light on Indian mythology.

It was wonderful evening, littered with testimonies from the editor and owner of the publishing house, and words from people from different genres and mediums, who have had the privilege to either interview Nandita or read her book. Needless to say, they were all full of praise for this promising author and above all, an empowered woman and her two books – Meera Rising and Rosemary’s Retribution.