Gita Mehta, the eminent author journalist, and elder sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik passed away on September 17, 2023, at the age of 80. She was a prolific writer, and her works include the novels Karma Cola and A River Sutra, as well as the memoir Snakes and Ladders. Mehta was also a renowned journalist, and her work appeared in publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker. She was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor.
Mehta was born in 1943 in Cuttack, Odisha, to Biju Patnaik, a prominent politician and freedom fighter, and Gyan Patnaik, a social worker. She was educated at the Loreto Convent School in Cuttack and the Welham Girls’ School in Dehradun. After graduating from college, she worked as a journalist for several Indian publications, including The Times of India and The Statesman.
In 1976, Mehta published her first novel, Karma Cola. The novel was a satire of Indian society and politics, and it was a critical and commercial success. Mehta’s second novel, A River Sutra, was published in 1993. The novel was a coming-of-age story about a young Indian woman, and it was also a critical and commercial success.
Mehta’s memoir, Snakes and Ladders, was published in 2004. The memoir was a candid and moving account of Mehta’s life, including her childhood in Odisha, her career as a journalist, and her personal relationships. Mehta’s memoir was also a critical and commercial success.
In addition to her novels and memoir, Mehta also wrote several non-fiction books, including Raj: A Tale of Love and Politics and The End of Innocence: A Story of Dispossession in India. She was also a contributor to several anthologies.
Mehta was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor. She was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Mehta’s death is a great loss to the world of Indian literature and journalism. She was a gifted writer and a keen observer of Indian society. Her work will continue to be enjoyed and admired by readers for many years to come.
Gita Mehta Work
Gita Mehta’s work is known for its sharp wit, its social commentary, and its insights into the human condition. Her novels often explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning. Her non-fiction work is often critical of the Indian government and its policies.
Mehta’s work has been praised by critics for its intelligence, its honesty, and its beauty. She has been described as “one of the most important writers of her generation” and “one of the most important voices in Indian literature.”
Gita Mehta Legacy
Gita Mehta’s legacy is that of a gifted writer and a keen observer of Indian society. Her work will continue to be enjoyed and admired by readers for many years to come.
Mehta’s Impact
Gita Mehta’s work has had a significant impact on Indian literature and journalism. Her novels and non-fiction books have helped to shape the way that the world perceives India. Mehta’s work has also inspired a new generation of Indian writers.
Conclusion
Gita Mehta was a towering figure in Indian literature and journalism. Her work was intelligent, honest, and beautiful. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her work.
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