Comparing a child to God, popular author Ketan Bhagat says, "God comes in every house in the form of a child”. He was in the city to release his latest fiction novel Child/God.
Published by Rumour Books India, the novel Child/God was released on Monday by Dr Ashok Chitkara, Chancellor of Chitkara University, at Chitkara International School. In Child/God, Ketan Bhagat explores the transformation a man experiences when he becomes a father.
Brother of best-selling novelist Chetan Bhagat, Ketan Bhagat is also an experienced storyteller. Ketan’s first novel, Complete/Convenient, was a hit with readers and is being adapted by actor/producer Rahul Roy into a Bollywood movie.
Based in Mumbai, Ketan has a day job in an IT MNC. Prior to becoming a novelist, he has also done writing stints in television and helped his brother script a movie.
Talking about the inspiration behind Child/God, Ketan shared that the idea came to him when he became a father to his now four-year-old son, Rian. While changing diapers, Ketan found his mindset changing. When the child took a bath, the father felt cleansed. As Ketan started experiencing such divine tranquillity in his naughty toddler's presence, a newfound wisdom and story tumbled out of him.
Ketan further explained, “Every newborn is unique, perfect, happy and light. His parents are usually the opposite. Yet, parents teach the child. Believing every child to be God's manifestation, I have tried to learn from my child.”
When asked about the prospects for Child/God to receive a Bollywood adaption, Ketan said, “Although it’s too early to make any announcements, I am delighted to share that I have a producer interested in making Child/God into a movie, and I am also in discussions with a few actors and directors. Fingers crossed, something will be finalised soon.”