We spoke to Abhik Dutta, author of several books in Bengali including Kichukhkhon, Nosto Somoyer Golpo, Chandalika Ebong Onyanyo Golpo, etc. Born in a Bengali middle-class family, Abhik has been reading books since his childhood. He is a busy Chemical Engineer but after coming back from his office, he loves to read various kinds of literature and edits a web magazine called Adorer Nouka, a web magazine. Abhik gets his inspiration from Tagore. He is also a music lover.
What challenges have you faced as a writer in Bengali? What successes have you achieved?
Presently, the number of readers is decreasing in the field of Bengali Literature and the market is getting limited day by day. I started writing on my facebook pages and got satisfactory responses. Facebook provides a liberal platform to the writers who want to publish their writings independently. But I still feel the conversion rate between reading and enjoying stories on facebook and buying the physical book from the market needs to be improved.
Tell us about the themes of your short fiction.
I write both short fictions and novels. I love writing thrillers and love stories.
What advice do you give to authors out there who wish to market their books?
You are a chemical engineer. How did you take the plunge into writing?
I write after I come back from work. Writing is a passion. My readers also inspire me to write. Even if I am tired after work, I don’t see that as an obstacle to my writing.
What is your next project?
In the upcoming Kolkata book fair, two of my books are getting published.
All the best with your writing in the future, Abhik!