AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Interview with Saptarshi NAG, WBCS (exe) , author of "Make It BIG- Cracking Government Interviews In Corporate Style"

Can you tell us about yourself?

I am a civil servant in the Government of West Bengal. Presently I hold the rank of Deputy Secretary to the Government. I am presently posted as Secretary, Siliguri Municipal Corporation. I have been in the service for more than a decade. I hail from Jalpaiguri, the queen of Dooars in North Bengal.

When did you first start writing?

I wrote a small poem titled 'Reasons' long back in 2011. That was widely appreciated in my circle. After that, I wrote a number of essays on diverse topics like sports, education and politics. My most recent poem 'The Schoolbag' got rave reviews from the readers.

Do you remember what you wrote first?

As I already told, I wrote for the first time in 2011.

If yes, can you kindly share with us?

Here we go with my first piece of writing...

Reasons

If we admit that human life can be ruled by a reason, the possibilities of life are destroyed.

'coz reasons open new vistas for opportunities, but block the door for possibilities.

I am not a man with reason; I am no man with careerism,

For me life offers in bounty, Life needs in return plenty.

When I see the opportunists rising up the ladder,

When I see them seeking a reason, I reason with reason,

I reject the society which creates the necessities for all reasons.

And I find solace in a life where no reasons exist, no opportunity exists, no prosperity exists.

Prosperity they say gives them comfort,

But alas makes them cautious of !

Opportunity they say gives them might,

But alas takes the freedom!

When they go up the air,

I traverse down the valley,

When they earn millions,

I lurk into millions.

And I end up with no luxury,

No property to be cautious,

But I enjoy the savage,

I savor the freedom.

'coz I ain't a man with reason.

How did you get interested in writing?

Being a civil servant myself, I do a lot of pro bono activities to encourage others to come in the service. I hold free classes for the under privileged. I have my own YouTube channel as well. It was the demand of the students to write a book to help their preparations. This book is only the stepping stone.

Who are your favourite authors? Why?

Satyajit Ray, John Grisham and Amish Tripathy. Because of their simple style of writing, wonderful pace and gripping style.

Tell us about your book.

Who does not want to make it big? After all, you are going to get just one life to live. And what if you are in the process of making it 'Big' in the Government? Simply, nothing like that! This book is an attempt to groom you to face any Government Interview in the corporate manner, so that your discipline merges with your attitude, your talent blends with your outlook and your knowledge mixes with your endeavors and you are all set to make your dreams come true. As this book has a universal appeal, even if you are not appearing in any interview, this book may come handy as a little dose of motivation.

What is the purpose of writing this book?

Simply to help out the students to groom them for any competitive examinations. This will help in their overall personality development.

Who has been your inspiration?

One and only Satyajit Ray.

How do you feel when you write?

I feel like just going on with the flow. I do not think about the errors. I simply note down what I am feeling. Once a chapter is over, I start reading it and then do the necessary corrections. It is essential to clear your thought process once you start writing.

What are your other hobbies?

I love playing cricket and participate in semi professional tournaments even now. Besides, I am an avid reader. I love watching movies and cooking, too.

How was your publishing journey with blue rose publishers?

They are utterly professionals and the process of publishing requires thorough professionalism. The publishing consultants are understanding and responsive. However, I think they should come up with more market oriented works and seeing the response from the readers, should be more proactive during the post publication process.

When can we expect your next book?

May be within six months.

Where can readers find your other writings?

Those will soon be compiled and published as a book.

Where can readers connect to you?

They can simply send a mail to . I normally reply within a day.

Few words you would like to say to your readers.

Don't stop chasing your dreams. Sacrifice the present for a brighter tomorrow. Stay motivated always.

Finally, few words of advice for the budding writers?

Gone are the days when you were required to knock at the door of every publishing house with a manuscript and begging hands to get your book published. Thanks to houses like the Blue Rose, publishing has now become an easy task. With the growth of social media, you don't need to worry about promotion of your book as well. So do not worry about what is going to happen once your writing is over. Just keep writing. Focus on the content of your book. Content is the king. So, if you have a desire to be an author, your time starts just now.

Thank you for your time sir... All the best for your future endeavors..