‘I was a very impatient reader as a child’
ME, MY SHELF AND I: PULKIT SAMRAT
Which books are currently on your reading list?
I’m currently reading A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, Em and the Big Hoom by Jerry Pinto, Paradise Towers by Shweta Bachchan Nanda, and An Unsuitable Boy by Karan Johar.
Which is the best book you’ve read so far? Why?
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry. It’s an emotional roller coaster ride. You live with each and every character. Set against the backdrop of India’s two-year emergency, it speaks volumes about the political unrest and prejudice prevalent at the time.
Which genres do you enjoy reading? Which do you avoid? I am kind of inclined towards autobiographies, fiction and fantasy. Haven’t developed a fondness for crime, first-person narratives and mysteries yet!
Which book do you think everyone should read at least once? Why?
Everyone should read Open, Andre Agassi’s autobiography. One line from this book tells you the mantra to live a happy life and be successful. He says, “Adversity builds character.” He takes you through all the ups and downs of his life, and his thoughts on how he fought everything to make sure that every day is a fantastic day whether he wins or loses. You are changed as a person once you turn the last page. What do you like to read when you travel?
Mostly fiction novels.
Which is your favourite fairy tale or folk story?
I guess that would be The Secret Seven or The Famous Five by Enid Blyton. That would be my Christmas gift.
If you had to name one book that made you who you are today, which would it be? Introduction to Maths by RD Sharma. It made me realise padhai mere bas ki nahin hai (studies weren’t my forte), follow your dream; become an actor!
What kind of reader were you as a child? Which childhood stories have stayed with you? I was a very, very impatient reader! I could barely finish a book. Comics were what always fascinated me. Chacha Chaudhary, Phantom and Archie’s. In fact I read Archie’s even today.
Which author would you choose to write your life story? I wish I could be a writer. I don’t think anyone can tell my story more honestly than I could.
As told to Pooja Sharma