Shobhaa Dé With Barkha Dutt: From Mumbai’s Elite Circles to PM Modi
At 76, Shobhaa De remains fearless and unapologetic — on fame, feminism, and freedom — in a candid conversation with Barkha Dutt.
One of India’s most celebrated writers, Shobhaa De — novelist, columnist, and former model — joined Barkha Dutt for an unfiltered conversation on life, writing, and womanhood. Known for her bold portrayal of Mumbai’s elite and her candid exploration of female sexuality, De reflected on a fifty-year career that defied stereotypes and silenced critics.
Speaking about her new book “Insatiable,” De said she lives with “laser-like focus on the now,” rejecting regrets and self-censorship. She recalled sexist reviews from the 1980s, media labeling her “India’s Jackie Collins,” and even a mob attack for her outspoken views. Yet, she remains undeterred — “I have no political agenda, and that’s my strength.”
In the interview, De discussed her journey from modeling and copywriting to creating Stardust magazine at just 23, redefining celebrity journalism. She also opened up about her father’s influence, her disciplined parenting, and her evolution as a writer shaping women’s voices across generations.
On meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she described him as “a master communicator” with “phenomenal presence of mind,” while clarifying she’s politically neutral. At 76, De continues to challenge ageist and gendered norms, saying, “If your brain’s working and your body’s fine, nothing should stop you.”
Barkha Dutt concluded the session applauding De’s unwavering honesty — calling her a symbol of courage and creative independence for Indian women writers.
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