Anupama Garg: "I was compelled to write to clear the myths about Tantra." (Interview) !!!

 I read the book "The Tantric Curse" last month and its effect in my life has been tremendous because of which I felt like interviewing the first time authoress, Anupama Garg. Please do read to know that she thinks about Tantra and Tantrics. 

1. Hi Anupama, how has been your experience after becoming a writer? What changes are you noticing in your life?

Hi! I don’t really consider myself a writer, however it definitely feels very good to know that people are appreciating my work. My life is very much the same except more mails to answer, more messages and recognition as a writer. 

2. Tell us something about your first book- “The Tantric Curse”.

The book, through its central characters, takes the readers into the world of authentic Tantra giving an un-bashed account of the dark and light in Tantra. It is an intense and passionate love story, inspirational handbook of life explaining the principles of Tantra all rolled in one. It is a gripping book set in present-day and is fast paced.

3. What compelled you to write a book on such a topic?

I am a student of Tantra and have been under training of my Guruji Baba Batuknathji, a well know tantric. This explains the fact, I have written about the path that I am walking. “The Tantric Curse” throws light on the principles of Tantra. Tantra is a field that is largely unknown, hence misunderstood and misrepresented. It is passed on through the age-old Guru (teacher) shishya (disciple) system and is imperative that it goes into worthy hands. Like every kind of power, it too has the potential to be misused. I was compelled to write to clear the myths about Tantra. It happened as my Guruji directed me to write instead of complaining as to why is Tantra misunderstood and grossly maligned.

4. Since when are you following tantric life and what changes has it made to your life?

I was formally initiated about 25 years back. Any spiritual practice aids in understanding the larger picture and makes one compassionate. It has helped me to become a better, calmer, happier, grateful and a stronger individual. 

5. Why do you think are people having bad image of Tantrics?

Tantra is maligned, misinterpreted and misrepresented, as never before has a genuine practitioner told what it entails to be a Tantric and what exactly is Tantra. People are afraid of the unknown and have associated Tantra with negative power. Often media and television have reinstated the fact, time and again by calling delinquents Tantrics. 

6. Are you going to write only about Tantra and Tantrics in future or you might shift your focus from this topic?

 I have not really thought whether I will write at all !!

7. Can we get some insight about what your next book is?

Have to still decide if I will write and if I do what it will be.

8. How has been your association with Rupa Publications while working with them on your first book?

Rupa Publications has been excellent at handling the entire project with the right sensitivity and understanding. My association with them is comfortable and easy.  They are open minded, very supportive and straightforward which works very well with me. One of the most admirable aspects is the promptness with which they respond. As an author I feel that the rejections I got from other publications were perfect in the larger scheme of things ….else Rupa would not have happened!! 

9. Any words for your readers who like your book?

I am really happy and grateful for your appreciation of the book.  I hope this book aids you to develop a great relationship with yourself, inspires you to learn from every trial that life offers you and makes you a better person. This book has techniques which are tools to start your journey of self understanding. Wishing you all a meaningful and wonderful life!!