Louise Khurshid has donned many hats, from being a journalist to fighting elections in Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh. Her first book, Travails with Chachi is a series of tales, gleaned from many experiences in Farrukhabad and Delhi, narrated from the perspective of a taxi driver. Talking at the Ibrowse event held at the catholic club, she says, “Travails with Chachi is seen through the eyes of the Ambassador taxi – an ubiquitous symbol that defines the capital. The taxi is the protagonist in the tale and provides a bird’s eye view on the lives and times of dhoti-clad paan-chewing portly politicians; Ganesh brand beedi chain-smokers; the Nakli Singh Yadavs who only want to induct people into politics and Mehnath Singh – who is the polar opposite of his name. The book spans Delhi and Farookabad. It is inspired by my dabbling in politics.”
Married to former External Affairs minister Salman Khurshid, her first brush with the region came soon after her wedding. “I was born in a small Christian family in Mangalore. My mother in law asked me to hide all my jewellery in the trunk of the car when I visited the area for the first time. It took time for me to integrate with the local culture. I found a great deal of acceptance. It showcases the strength of our democratic structure.”
She adds, “The book takes into account many issues that people in the region face. Despite a lot of pressure from my publishers, I wanted to pen a collection of small stories, instead of a novel. I felt that stories, instead of a novel, based on a singular character will help readers relate more. The book also has some of my newspaper columns, which have been improvised.”
As a working journalist, she claims to have a healthy contempt for politicians. “I never assumed I would get into politics. I have enjoyed the journey with all its successes and failures. I have always been frank in my columns, even when Salman was part of the union cabinet. I have never shied away from commentary on contemporary politics.”
Louise says, “My next book is also nearing completion. That book will be more about the current political climate and will deal with the stalwarts in public life.”
