What is the best thing that I love about my work? Writing has always been my passion. From writing diaries as a little girl to writing for a living, I have come a full circle. Every day at work, I learn a little something through my research, stories and conversations with people from all walks of life. My work gives me the opportunity to learn that the world is a treasure house of knowledge waiting to be sought and through my writing I seek that what is waiting to be spoken of, motivating and inspiring people to change.
What is my idea of perfect happiness? Happiness to me is my family. Happiness to me is appreciating what I have rather than desiring for what I don’t have. Because in my experience when I compare with others and long for what I don’t have I fail to value the precious gift of my wonderful family.
What is my greatest fear? Losing my family.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself? Laziness.
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire? No one really.
What is my greatest extravagance? I am careful with not overspending.
On what occasion would I lie? Besides the obvious of saving someone’s lie, I may lie sometimes when my 9-year-old asks questions about life. They are really complicated.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work? Sometimes you have to write about things that may not be what you believe in.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work? It was my first job back in India when I felt I was finally going to start my career in the industry that I have always longed to be. My interview was with a well-known celebrity and I was thrilled.
If I could, what would I change about myself? I am a stickler for deadlines so sometimes I tend to swamp myself with the work of others whom I think won’t be able to deliver on time. I think, maybe, I need to relax and take it easy sometimes.
What is my greatest achievement in work? In my last job, I was heading a team as an assistant editor. Due to a crisis situation I was left with just a writer and the graphic designer to get a 120 pages magazine out. I was to coordinate with the external stakeholders and the internal, apart from writing, editing and proofreading stories and then sitting with the designer to get the layout right. I did that for three months until we had a functional team in place. I multi-tasked beyond my role and I did well.
Where would I most like to live? I live multiple lives through the books I read and I feel almost rejuvenated every time I finish a good book.
What is my most treasured possession? My family, my books and my life’s experiences which has taught me to be the person I am today.
What is my most marked characteristic? I am loyal and trustworthy. Once a friend I will always be a friend.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city? Federation Square, Melbourne is a place I love in my city. Known for its cultural and public events, it is a great place to hang out. I, sometimes, sit with a cup of coffee or a snack on my own and let time pass by. Buzzing with people, many tourists, some locals, and multiple outdoor events happening at the same time. The true colours of Melbourne’s multi-culturalism come alive here.
What is my favourite place to eat and drink, in my city? I love trying out different cuisines. Out of my many favourites I like eating at Nene Chicken outlets and one of the best chai lattes I have had is at a local coffee shop near my place.
What books influenced my life and how? Two books that have had a powerful impact on my life are Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom and To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee. From the former book I learnt to be compassionate and forgiving, how to take charge of your own life and never wallow in self-pity, to be appreciative of your family and that imminent death makes you realise the truth of living. From the latter, I was inspired by Atticus Finch, his parenting style and about being a compassionate human.
Who are my favorite writers? Stephen King, Agatha Christie and Gillian Flynn.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day? All the hits of the 80s and 90s. Michael Jackson, Savage Garden, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, George Michael among others.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction? Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird, Hermione Granger from Harry Potter.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life? Prophet Muhammed, for his perfect manners, leadership and loving heart. My maternal grandmother who sowed the seeds of feminism in me. She taught me to be independent and compassionate and humble and loving and everything good that I am today, I owe every bit of it to her.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime? Forrest Gump
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime? Myself
Whom would I like to work with in 2019/2020? Vogue Australia
Which people in my profession would I love to meet in 2019/2020? I would love to meet J K Rowling for being the amazing writer she is who convinced everyone that Hogwarts exists and that is one place most of us want to be a part of.
What project, in 2019/2020, am I looking forward to work on? Where can you see me or my work in 2019/2020? Excited about getting back to work. It would be on the internet.
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me? When you are passionate about something, it will drive you to be better. You may have moments of failure or feel let down but it is this passion in you that will keep you going and help you seek light at the end of a dark tunnel.
Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story? JK Rowling
How can you contact me? Nagma.thetwins@gmail.com
The Heroine's Journey 