Shweta Mahendra is an engineering graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee. She is a polymath—a Technocrat, an author, columnist, and blogger with diverse interests in history, archaeology, sociology, travel, fashion, and fitness.
She has been part of the Guinness World Record for the Thickest book in the world, Chapter ‘23 Positive Change Makers in the World 2023.’ She is an awareness speaker who speaks about women’s empowerment and the philosophy of life. She is associated with Reliance Jio. She has authored the book Many Visions, Many Worlds and its Hindi version, Anek Drishti, Anek Srishti.
In an interview with Professor Shiv Sethi, she discussed different issues. Here are the excerpts.
- Could you tell us about your upcoming book?
“3 States: I saw BHARAT in India” is a travelogue documenting the author’s experiences in three of India’s most beautiful states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur. The book has been written in a bilingual format to reach a wider audience, including people of all ages and regions.
- What is the significance of the title?
The title is self-explanatory. I could see the vast difference between my metro life and their lives in three northeast states. They are so genuine and original; they are honest, original, cultural, and happy in their small worlds with their small needs. They do not want to go away from their motherland.
- From a techie to an author and then a travel writer, Wow! What inspired you for this transition?
As someone who is passionate about technology, I often find myself in need of help when researching ancient civilizations to ensure that the information I find is authentic. During my research, I took detailed notes on my findings and eventually became the author of a book titled “Many Visions, Many Worlds”. Writing can be compared to travelling, as it takes you on a journey of discovery. The desire for knowledge makes you a traveller.
- Is writing your full-time career? Or would you like it to be?
Writing is not my career; it is my passion. I work for Reliance Jio in the R&D department in Innovation and Quality. The purpose of writing is not to put books on shelves; I want to spread awareness with the limited knowledge I have collected through my travel experiences. What I understand making a career to mean is earning money by writing. NO, I am a pupil of Socrates, and he spread knowledge and never charged for it, in contrast to philosophers.
- From a techie to an author and then a travel writer, Wow! What inspired you for this transition?
As someone who is passionate about technology, I often need help researching ancient civilizations to ensure that the information I find is authentic. During my research, I took detailed notes on my findings and eventually became the author of a book titled “Many Visions, Many Worlds.” Writing can be compared to travelling, as it takes you on a journey of discovery. The desire for knowledge makes you a traveller.
- Could you discuss any particular themes or motifs that recur throughout your travelogue and why they hold significance in your exploration of the destinations?
One recurring theme in my travelogue is the resilience of the local communities despite geographical and cultural challenges. This theme is significant as it highlights the strength and adaptability of the people in the Northeast region.
- What captivated you about the Northeast region of India for your travelogue? Were any unique cultural, landscape, or people aspects that stood out to you?
The Northeast region is known for its captivating diversity in culture, language, and traditions across each state. It’s fascinating to explore and experience each state’s unique characteristics. The simplicity of the people in the region has won my heart.
- Could you share some of the most memorable experiences or encounters you had during your travels in the Northeast, particularly in the 3 States you explored? How did these experiences shape your decision to write about the region?
Surrounded by pristine lakes and untouched nature, I would love to spend my life in the area beyond Tawang up to Bumla Pass in Arunachal. I visited the Sikkim and (Gangtok) I found it closer to Arunachal. I have to explore Sikkim more. That’s why it is not part of the travelogue.
- Could you elaborate on the challenges you encountered during your extensive research and travels through the Northeast? How did you navigate these hurdles to capture the region’s essence in your travelogue effectively?
While exploring Northeast India, I realised that I needed more information about the unique and vital places in the area. Tour companies can limit our exposure to local culture and language. Hindi is the official language of Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam has places like Shivasagar and Rangpur, with historical and mythological significance. Through my travels, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of India beyond the Westernized side I previously knew.
- In what ways do you believe your travelogue can promote awareness and appreciation for the Northeast among readers who may be less familiar with its cultural diversity and natural beauty?
I have been reflecting on my inner thoughts, where I question myself about the differences in lifestyle and culture between Northeast India and the rest of the country. I am a North Indian residing in Mumbai for the last 25 years. Comparing the social structure and values has been a revealing experience for me.
- Are you working on anything you would like to share with your readers?
I am working on multiple projects, some still in the research phase. One of my upcoming books will be a love story that explores how brilliant minds make decisions about love during their time at IIT and beyond. It will focus on love stories and the stories of students on the IIT Roorkee campus during the 1990s.
