Mahasweta Devi, author, playwright and tribal activist says she has faith in the new generation when it comes to their engagement with social issues.
You’re known to be quite a recluse. What made you come to Mumbai?
I’m not a recluse, I don’t travel to big cities. I travel pretty regularly to places like Palamou and Purulia where I work.
What do you think about the level of engagement that the youth have with social issues?
You know, I find that the youth is more responsive to social issues than they were. I have a lot of faith in the new generation.
What do you think are the most relevant issues of our times?
I think people should focus on the environment. There’s a lot to be done in that area. We must save small rivers. People generally focus only on the big rivers but there are so many small rivers that are a source of life for many communities and villages. We must put a stop to the rampant deforestation. We must think long and hard about what we’re doing to the environment.
What do you think of Anna Hazare’s movement?
I don’t want to speak about Anna Hazare, but I would like to direct the focus on Irom Sharmila. She’s been fasting for over 11 years now and I don’t think she got her due.
Who was the author who inspired you?
Rabindranath Tagore. I was only 10 when I went to study at Shantiniketan. There was a great culture of encouraging children to write, both in Shantiniketan as well as at home.
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