Ruskin Bond turns 90: Candid conversations from childhood dreams to finding his calling as a writer

Author Ruskin Bond (Image: Screengrab from video on PTI)

Renowned author Ruskin Bond, acclaimed for his captivating literary works that enchant readers with their simplicity and charm, offered candid insights and reflections in a recent interview with news agency PTI. Bond, who celebrated his 90th birthday on May 19, delved into a range of topics, including his romantic experiences, interactions with fans, and the journey of discovering his passion for writing.

Recalling his past relationships, Bond reminisced about a close bond he shared with a Vietnamese girl during his time in London. Despite the connection, the relationship didn't progress further, leading Bond to embrace a solitary life until his present family became an integral part of his world. "When I was in London, I did have a very close relationship with a Vietnamese girl. It didn't come to anything. Time passed by and I never really felt that I could, in those days at least, have a family life. I was very much a lone ranger on my own until my present family became part of my life. Now, I am a family man without getting married," author Ruskin Bond said on remaining a bachelor his whole life.

The interview touched upon Bond's interactions with fans. Bond noted the frequent visits he receives at his residence. He expressed appreciation for their enthusiasm but acknowledges limitations due to his age. He recalled past book signings and hinted at the possibility of resuming the tradition on his birthday.

Bond also shed light on his path to authorship. Reflecting on his career path, he humorously recounted his childhood aspirations of becoming an actor or tap dancer, admitting that writing eventually emerged as his true calling. He said, “I wanted to be an actor, that never happened. I wanted to be a tap dancer, never had the figure for it. Then I realised I could write. I was a great bookworm. I grew up on books. Then I thought this is the best thing to do. Nothing better than a book, then why not write a few.”

In a lighter moment, Bond shared a humorous anecdote about being mistaken for a foreigner during a visit to the iconic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. He humorously recounted that despite asserting his Indian identity, he ended up paying extra for entry. Ruskin Bond on people perceiving him to be a foreigner: “They charge extra from foreigners for entering Konark (Sun Temple in Odisha). I said, 'I am not a foreigner, I am an Indian', but then to avoid an argument I paid extra. And behind me came a sardar ji, he had a British passport but they let him in. He wasn't charged extra because he didn't look like a foreigner.”

Born on May 19, 1934, in Kasauli, a hill town in Himachal Pradesh, Ruskin Bond renowned for his captivating narratives, his literary voyage spans several decades, during which he has authored numerous novels, short stories, essays, and children's literature. His writing often mirrors the tranquil landscapes of his upbringing, drawing inspiration from the serene hills where he spent much of his early years. He enchanted readers of all ages with his beloved characters. His contributions, including "The Room on the Roof", "The Blue Umbrella," and the "Rusty" series, have made a lasting impact on literature, earning him a plethora of accolades such as the Sahitya Akademi Award, Padma Bhushan, John Llewellyn Rhys Prize, and Padma Shri.

Ruskin Bond has enriched the literary landscape with a myriad of captivating novels. He was honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1992 for "Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra". "The Room on the Roof" published when he was 21, marked his debut. His first children's book, "Angry River" was published in 1972. "Rain in the Mountains" recounts his years in Mussoorie, while "Scenes from a Writer's Life" depicts his formative 21 years. While the novels, "The Room on the Roof" and "Adventures of Toto" depict rural India's charm, "The Blue Umbrella" and "Angry River" capture human experiences. And, tales like "Owls in the Family" and "The House of Strange Stories" immerse readers in boundless imagination.

As Ruskin Bond celebrates his 90th birthday, his legacy as one of India's most beloved authors endures, inspiring generations of readers with his timeless tales of love, loss, and the enduring spirit of humanity.