Written In The Stars - Where Did Indian Sci-Fi Come From?

The Indian psyche has always brimmed with questions about the universe. Small wonder, then, that we would find increasingly unique, diverse, and beautiful ways of seeking out answers

- Sharan Sanil

I've always believed that you are what you read. Writing novellas and short stories through my teens, I saw my tastes evolve as life's themes changed; romances, dramas, fantasies, edgy thrillers, what have you. Science fiction has probably been the longest-running contender for me, however. I remember watching Jurassic Park and The Jetsons before I could even speak, and soon enough, my childhood bookshelves were lined with encyclopaedias on dinosaurs, robotics, space, and everything in between. And like any child who loved science, I loved questions; one trip to the library and some time with Asimov, and the rest fell into place with cosmic providence.

Thought I didn't realise it at the time, most of my exploration of science fiction (like everyone else) was deeply eurocentric-something I was forced to contend with after moving to India and developing a relationship with Indian writing. India has always been a land of stories, with its rich tapestry of mythologies and its newgen traditions in everything from saccharine romances to sociopolitical dramas. However, as a relatively unexplored entrant in Indian literature and cinema, science fiction has carved a unique niche for itself. The genre has undergone a fascinating evolution, from early speculative fiction in Marathi literature to the visionary tales of Tamil cinema. Recently, a modern resurgence has been driven by a new Eastern wave in the genre and possibly, ISRO's achievements.

Reflecting on this journey, I recall my own attempt to delve deeper into the roots of Indian sci-fi by reaching out to Jayant Narlikar. Despite his advanced age and ailing health, which prevented him from being formally interviewed, the erudite astrophysicist and science fiction writer graciously agreed to correspond via email.