Written In The Stars - Where Did Indian Sci-Fi Come From?

I've always believed that you are what you read. Writing novellas and short stories through my teens, I saw my tastes evolve as life's themes changed; romances, dramas, fantasies, edgy thrillers, what have you. Science fiction has probably been the longest-running contender for me, however. I remember watching Jurassic Park and The Jetsons before I could even speak, and soon enough, my childhood bookshelves were lined with encyclopaedias on dinosaurs, robotics, space, and everything in between. And like any child who loved science, I loved questions; one trip to the library and some time with Asimov, and the rest fell into place with cosmic providence.
Thought I didn't realise it at the time, most of my exploration of science fiction (like everyone else) was deeply eurocentric-something I was forced to contend with after moving to India and developing a relationship with Indian writing. India has always been a land of stories, with its rich tapestry of mythologies and its newgen traditions in everything from saccharine romances to sociopolitical dramas. However, as a relatively unexplored entrant in Indian literature and cinema, science fiction has carved a unique niche for itself. The genre has undergone a fascinating evolution, from early speculative fiction in Marathi literature to the visionary tales of Tamil cinema. Recently, a modern resurgence has been driven by a new Eastern wave in the genre and possibly, ISRO's achievements.
Reflecting on this journey, I recall my own attempt to delve deeper into the roots of Indian sci-fi by reaching out to Jayant Narlikar. Despite his advanced age and ailing health, which prevented him from being formally interviewed, the erudite astrophysicist and science fiction writer graciously agreed to correspond via email.
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2024-Ausgabe von Man's World.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 9.500 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der July 2024-Ausgabe von Man's World.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 9.500 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden

HUBLOT Julien Tornare's Next Big Bang
After a tour de force across some of LVMH's most powerful brands, Hublot's CEO seems more poised than ever to usher in a bold new era―one he shared insights on during his recent visit to India

Generation Speed A First Look at India's Premier Motoring Festival
For decades, India's love for cars has been shaped by influences from the West. But the next generation? It's being forged right here-on the highways, backroads, garages, and racetracks of the subcontinent. And now, for the first time, there's a place built to celebrate it

ON A TIME MACHINE THROUGH CAIRO
Modern Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a city that lives in multiple timelines; it is a city of many pasts, and it is a city where the past is never past. The very first day of traversing through its history-steeped streets got me jet-lagged!

Love Notes With Ishaan Khatter
A candid chat with the actor, who might just become Bollywood's next romantic hero

English Vinglish
From Pokémon to Chandler Bing, my language lessons came with laugh tracks, late-night binges, and a remote control

How Vicky Kaushal Transformed for Chhava
Tejas Lalwani, the man behind Kaushal's warrior physique, reveals the process behind the biggest transformation of 2025 so far

Breitling's Time Capsule Lands in Bengaluru
After over 50 stops across the world, Breitling's stunning traveling heritage collection comes to India—orchestrated by the marque's well-seasoned Heritage Specialist, Paul Mulocher

Venkatesh lyer Is Ready to Raise The Bar
Kolkata Knight Riders' most expensive acquisition for IPL 2025, the all-rounder strides into the new season with a singular focus: to pile up runs and pick wickets

BACHCHAN means BUSINESS
To call Abhishek Bachchan an actor, entrepreneur, or sports mogul would be reductive. He embodies an evolved model of celebrity-one where creative pursuits like Ludo, I Want to Talk, Ghoomer and calculated investments feed into each other, redefining what success means beyond the screen, the balance sheet, and a family name synonymous with cinema.

The Paradox of Purpose
In the realm of automotive engineering, certain creations transcend mere functionality, embodying a blend of audacity and artistry that captivates the imagination; the Mercedes-AMG G63 is a quintessential example