his conscience in journalism. After he took over Debonair, an Indian men’s magazine, as editor-in-chief in 1994, he has since then founded and edited numerous publications. The Sunday Observer, Bombay Daily, The Independent, The Pioneer are a few publications that add up to the list.He was the editor-in-chief of Outlook India until February 1, 2012, and since then, he is associated with the magazine as advisor. His autobiography, “Lucknow Boy: A Memoir,” was published in December 2011.[break]
Mehta is arriving in Nepal to be part of this year’s Ncell Nepal Literature Festival. He will be discussing his autobiography in the session “Lucknow Boy” with Yubaraj Ghimire on September 21, and another session, “The Outlook Years,” on September 22 with Kunda Dixit.
It is not known, however, whether the famed editor will be accompanied by his pet dog who is well-known as, well, “Editor.”
The Week contacted Mehta through email to have his opinions on his experience as a journalist and a writer. Here are some excerpts:
This remarkably candid memoir, with its ringside view of many of the major events of his time, brims over with wit, wisdom, scandal and gossip. The
riveting accounts of his encounters with personalities from the worlds of politics, business, films and the media, and also an insight to his struggles for editorial independence in the face of political pressures.
As former editor-in-chief of Outlook India and founder editor of The Independent, The Sunday Observer, and The Pioneer, how has the journey been so far?
It’s been a turbulent journey but I’m not complaining.
What are you currently working on? Please tell us something about it.
I’m working on a sequel to Lucknow Boy.
What’s your inspiration to write?
I’m a journalist, so writing is my job. However, when I feel angry about something, I’m provoked.
What’s your least favorite part of the writing process?
Doing the first draft.
What’s the most hurtful review or criticism you’ve received? How do you react to a bad review?
If the reviewer is someone I respect and if he’s critical, I take it very seriously.
Tell us something about your memoir. What inspired you to write it?
I felt I had something worthwhile to say, to make people laugh.
If you had to do it all over again, what would you change in it?
I wouldn’t change a word.
Which books have been inspiring for you?
All of George Orwell’s essays.
What’s your cure for writer’s block?
Sit at the table and write
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Do your own thing. Find your own voice.
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