Writer and Journalist Amitava Kumar joins Outlook Editor Chinki Sinha for an in-depth conversation on writing, memory, identity, and Indian trains. In this episode of Outlook’s podcast series, 'Our Lovely Friends', Amitava Kumar discusses his latest book, 'The Social Life of Indian Trains', and how trains shape India’s social, political, and emotional life.
Speaking about his writing process, Amitava Kumar reveals why he carries five different notebooks for five different purposes, how observation feeds literature, and what nostalgia means to him as a writer rooted in Bihar but living across in-between places. The conversation also touches on Indian literature, journalism, migration, belonging, and how everyday travel becomes an archive of stories.
This wide-ranging interview explores:
* The Social Life of Indian Trains by Amitava Kumar
* Indian trains as social and cultural spaces
* Writing habits, notebooks, and the craft of nonfiction
* Identity, roots, and Amitava Kumar’s love for Bihar
* Memory, nostalgia, and living between places
Watch this episode for a thoughtful discussion on Indian writing, travel, literature, and contemporary nonfiction, featuring one of India’s most important literary voices.
