This Valentine's Day, love is definitely in the air. However, love is not the only thing that determines a successful relationship. This is exactly what Sujata Parashar explored when she wrote her debut novel In Pursuit of infidelity. Her debut novel dealt with an extremely sensitive subject that many are scared to even discuss about. It is said Love, a temporary insanity is curable by marriage, but relationships can go a long away if laced with the right amount of trust, understanding and freedom. Here is what Sujata Parashar has to say about relationships.
What does Valentine's Day mean to you?
Fun, gifts, treat, smile and love.
Your first book is about “Infidelity”. How do you feel about that?
Well to tell you honestly…I am quite pleased and happy with myself for having written my first book on a widely read about, spicily discussed, hotly debated, and openly shunned but grudgingly (or happily by some) accepted, aspect of human relationship. Despite the ancient subject matter, I have managed to create a fresh storyline which is quite relevant in modern times for the urban Indian couples and especially so for the newly ‘emotionally aware' Indian wife.
These days “relationships” have become very common at a young age. Is this a healthy change?
I believe relationships are formed the day you are born. Of course, in India till recently (and even now), almost all forms of relationships have been given society's blessings except the one between a boy and a girl. We are a country of proud people. Proud of suppressing our basic human feelings and desires for the opposite sex - in the name of 'good value system'. But it is this ‘forced' pride, that has hampered the healthy growth and development of many young minds and has led them to commit crimes either out of curiosity or due to a feeling of neglect and deprivation. So in my opinion having open “relationships” is quite healthy. Of course a word of caution here —youngsters must take their parents/ or other parental figure they are comfortable with, into confidence and seek and share their concerns or issues with them.
Why do many relationships break at a tender stage these days?
Expectations and temptations are high, understanding and tolerance are low on both sides. A sensitive, caring and an honest attitude toward your partner and life in general is very important to nurture love.
Three things that are most important in any relationship?
Besides love - Trust, Honesty and Confidence in yourself and your partner.
How can we become emotionally more mature when it comes to relationships?
There is no set formula for that. Only thing to keep in mind is to be a genuine person. Someone has rightly said - ‘It is the heart that is important'. So if your heart is good…..your intent is pure and your aim is clear…..rest of the things will follow.
Nandhitha is a Std XI student of Chettinad Vidyashram
Title: In pursuit of infedility
Author : Sujata Parashar
Publisher:Rupa
Price:Rs. 95
