Amritsar, November 13

Author and columnist Chetan Bhagat talked about the ‘isms’ in society during a session held by FICCI FLO city chapter. Bhagat, who also unveiled his new book “400 Days” at the event, got candid about his stories, his idea of nationalism and English language elitism.

There has been a clear division in society in terms of language and readership (English speaking and non-English speaking). It is not just in literature, but can be experienced in everyday life. Chetan Bhagat, Author

Bhagat has been quite vocal about the elitism in language that according to him, divided society. “There has been a clear division in society in terms of language and readership (English speaking and non-English speaking). It is not just in literature, but can be experienced in everyday life,” he said during a conversation with Manjot Dhillon, chairperson, FICCI FLO.

He said his idea of nationalism means contributing towards the country’s success and prosperity and not talking about the glories of past. “If you look around, that’s what seems to be happening today,” he said.

He also mentioned feminism and how his stories connect with the themes of modern India without becoming heavy. He said he has been in fiction genre since 2004, and he does not let the criticism affect his creative process. — TNS