In a recent episode of The Mishal Husain Show, celebrated Indian-born author Amitav Ghosh discussed his wide-ranging literary career, touching on politics, capitalism, and the intriguing subject of past lives. With over three decades of work blending deep historical research with narrative flair, Ghosh shared insights on how his upbringing in Kolkata and his experiences in New York shaped his worldview.
Ghosh recounted a personal anecdote about a family member who had a near-death experience, leading him to explore the concept of reincarnation and past lives. He lamented that "the world has lost all its wonder," attributing this to the dominance of capitalist and materialist thinking. He contrasted the bustling, intellectual environment of Kolkata—where he learned to "think against the grain"—with the fast-paced, profit-driven ethos of New York, calling the two cities "opposite ends of the telescope."
To maintain his creative focus, Ghosh emphasized the importance of creating a "bubble of tranquility" for writing. His reflections offer a compelling critique of modern capitalism and a yearning for a more wonder-filled, spiritually aware society.