Subhechcha Ganguly 
In “Badchalan,” author Shwet Kumar Sinha fearlessly delves into the underbelly of society, shining a spotlight on its darkest flaws and entrenched social evils. Through a searing critique of gender inequality and societal norms, Sinha exposes the hypocrisy and corruption that lurk beneath the veneer of progress. His insightful narrative serves as a powerful mirror to society, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and inspiring conversations about meaningful change.
What inspired you to write “Badchalan,” and what message do you hope readers will take away from it?
Answer: Today the country is moving on the path of development in every field. New experiments are being done every day in the field of science which has made people’s living easier. In today mobile era, every facility is available just a click away. But there is a lot that still remains to be worked on. We still have a long way to go in improving the condition of women in the society, in overall development of villages or in harmonizing morality with education. Keeping a woman at the centre, I have tried to show all these aspects through the novel ‘Badchalan’. How the main character Shyama becomes a victim of injustice within her own home. How she teaches the society the lesson of humanity even after facing the double standards of people outside the periphery of her home. However this novel tells the story of the seventies when a rural society did not hesitate to call a woman by addressing her like wretched, whore, etc. It is a matter of great regret that even after so many years, we still see and hear such news often when someone, with his evil intentions, portrays himself as the savior of the society and calls a woman a slut, a wretched person, etc. The book shows how greed for money, lust, anger and drug addiction destroy the foundation of a house. If even a single reader, after reading the story, looks into his own heart and tries to assess himself, then my intention of writing it will prove successful.
The novel focuses on critiquing societal norms, particularly concerning women. Can you elaborate on the themes you explore and the issues you seek to address?
Answer: As far as issues are concerned in respect of novel ‘Badchalan’ I have tried to elaborate the plight of women inside and outside home. Also, many social issues like conservatism, decorum in relationships, drug addiction have been raised.
As an author deeply engaged with social issues, how do you navigate the balance between storytelling and advocacy in your writing?
Answer: While discussing on various social issues, it is utmost important to pay attention that the story doesn’t get burdensome to its readers. Therefore, character in the story raises various issues and also brings solutions to them so that the creativity of the story does not get disturbed.
“Badchalan” has garnered attention for its unflinching portrayal of societal flaws. How do you envision your work contributing to broader conversations about social change and reform?
Answer: A writer studies various topic, ponders over thoughts and lastly with the help of his imagination transformation it into a story or novel. The theme of ‘Badchalan’ is also among such novel built on the backdrop of reality and imagination in which I have discussed and pointed out about the social shortcomings and their reforms.
Can you share any memorable reactions or feedback you’ve received from readers about “Badchalan”?
Answer: As far as feedback is concerned, being a writer every feedback is very important for me and I try to pay attention and work on them in my future novels.Talking about the novel Badchalan, feedback has been received from many readers. Some have appreciated raising social issues through the novel while some criticism has also been received.I can recall, a reader in praising the novel has stated that, “By writing Badchalan, Shwet Kumar Sinha has drawn such a line for himself, which will not be so easy task to cross through his next novel”. On the other hand, one reader criticized that “deep topics should be avoided to discus through novels”. Now a suggestion is just a suggestion. We have to pay attention on each and every suggestion and ultimately act according to our discretion.
In what ways do you think literature can serve as a catalyst for addressing social injustices and fostering empathy and understanding?
Answer: Literature has approach to the masses. By using his creativity, a writer can spread public awareness about the injustice happening in the society and can bring a social reform. A writer is well capable to aware people of their rights, justice and injustice. In today’s time, literature has also an access to cinema, due to which the scope of literature has increased. Therefore, it should be the responsibility of every writer that by making his writing a medium, he should act as a powerful medium in empowering the society.
Lastly, what are your hopes for the impact of “Badchalan” on readers, and do you have any future projects in the works?
Answer: I hope novel “Badchalan” will proof itself as a milestone in eliminating the ill deeds and discrepancies prevalent in the society. As far as future projects are concerned, currently I am working on few novels. Very soon, my new novel “IAS Fail” under the banner of Prabhat Prakashan will be available to readers.
