Regional writings still have readership base: Mitra Phukan

Well-known Assamese writer and columnist Mitra Phukan said the regional writings still hold a great readership base in the country despite a wide penetration of international literature.
"It is true to some extent that the regional writings are sidelined as compared to English writings in our country. But, still there is a great vibrancy in regional language writings, and a very engaged readership," she said.
"It is also true that literature of regional languages are not readily accessible to others. Therefore, writings in English, though limited to a specific readership, are a kind of default option for those who read in that language across the country, and then, throughout the world," she told PTI in an online interview.

Mitra, who will reach Kerala tomorrow to participate in the third edition of the South India Writers' Ensemble (SIWE) beginning in Chengannur tomorrow, said predominance of virtual world and lack of time are the major challenges a creative writer faces now-a-days.
"People, young, middle-aged or old, in the modern world, are all pressed for time. Many people would like to read more creative writings, but the virtual world takes up so much of their time," he said.
The author of the "Collector's Wife" said she is never ready to compromise with any social obligations or censorship imposed by the society.

"I write more or less what I want to, the way I want to. Yes, there have been negative reactions at times, about the content of some of my works. After all, one cannot live, or write, according to the dictates of others," she said.
Besides Mitra, a number of prominent writers from various Indian states and abroad are expected to participate in the two-day SIWE conference beginning on July 24.