Interview with Author Saurav Ranjan Datta: on Bravery, Indian History and ‘Where Bravehearts Dwelt

Following is an interview with author Saurav Ranjan Datta. He is an internationally recognised writer, content researcher and creator of TV shows. He has written numerous articles for various prestigious publications, including Hindustan Times, CNBCTV18, and Outlook India. He has also contributed to multiple anthologies and poetry books. His book, “Where Bravehearts Dwelt,” comprises stories of ten heroes who are immortalized in India’s rich history.

1. What part of the creative process did you find the most interesting while writing ‘Where Bravehearts Dwelt’? Was it the semi-hagiographical format? Or was it the stories?
   The background research for the stories, delves into the intricacies of Indian history, separating the myth from the facts.
    
2. What does a ‘braveheart’ mean to you, personally?
   For me at least, every human is a braveheart, as he or she meanders through the complexities of a journey called life. Right from his or her birth, a human faces varied emotions and the experiences that come with them, which can shape him or her and determine the outcome of a life.
   
    
3. How did you balance rigorous historical research with the imaginative liberties needed for storytelling?
   This is a very thin line that every writer of historical fiction has to tread. A straight answer to this question would be very difficult to formulate.
   
    
4. If you were to expand the book, which other Indian historical figures would you love to include and why?
   I would love to include something from my Bengal and more stories from the Northeast zone. I think the history of both these regions is intriguing and interesting.
   
    
5. Did you ever feel the weight of responsibility, writing about figures who command such respect in the psyche of the average Indian?
   Absolutely. Writing history or historical fiction is a daunting task.
   
    
6. The protagonist largely creates an air of suspense for most of your stories. Given a choice, in what other way would you like to frame these characters?
   In no other way, ha ha. Suspense is an integral part of life.
   
    
7. If a young reader picks this book up, what is the single most important takeaway you hope they carry with them?
   An interest in India and Indian history and its multiculturalism. Also, a general interest in history. History is more than what we generally imagine or think. History is more than facts, figures, and dates.