Creative paths: a writer, sculptor, and architect share their distinctive voices

A writer, a sculptor, and an architect; three creative minds, each shaping the world through a distinct lens. One crafts stories with words, another breathes life into stone, while the third reimagines space itself. Though their mediums differ, their visions intersect in a shared pursuit: to inspire, provoke, and leave a lasting mark.

1. Santanu Bhattacharya, Bestselling author and writer

“It comes from various inspirations; be it lived experiences, observations and what’s happening in the world. I focus on writing about real people and real-world issues, not for escapism but to reflect on the beauty, ugliness and quirks of life. The constant in my work is bringing to life relatable subjects that make readers feel connected to my stories.”

ON LOVE, IDENTITY & SOCIETAL CHANGE

“I grew up gay during a time when Section 377 was used to criminalise homosexuality, and the internet made it easy to expose people. My generation lived in constant shame, and even after its decriminalisation in 2009, we didn’t know how to handle that newfound freedom. The 2013 recriminalisation was a harsh reminder of the hostility we faced. I wanted to capture the shame and trauma of that experience while also honouring those who lived in silence before us and highlighting the more empowered but still challenged Gen Z. The tri-generational approach is what ultimately inspired my book, Deviants.”

ON GEN-Z & QUEER HISTORY

“While researching Gen Z, I spent time online, consuming reels and joining apps to understand their interactions. I found myself trapped in the addictive, yet empty, nature of these platforms, alongside the unsettling realisation of how our data is exploited. While researching the past, I was shocked by the erasure of queer literature in South Asia— decades of silence that felt both bizarre and unacceptable.”

ON QUEER CINEMA & LITERATURE

“Ismat Chughtai’s Lihaaf is a key inspiration, highlighting female same-sex desire in Colonial and post-Colonial India. Due to the lack of queer South Asian literature, I also turned to film, particularly Deepa Mehta’s Fire, Onir’s My Brother Nikhil and I Am, and Rituparno Ghosh’s radical, transgressive work. Ghosh, in particular, remains an icon whose death left a lasting impact on me.”

A LIFE-CHANGING BOOK

“If I really really had to choose one, I’d say The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid. I had just become an adult when I read this; there was something so fresh and crisp and smart about a global South Asian voice that was also so rooted. It was something I wanted to be and something I wanted to write.”

HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

“Some peace in the world. The end of the genocide we’re all silently witnessing. Some reality checks for the crazy political leaders we seem to have ended up with all over the world. Just more hope, more joy, more lives saved.”

2. Jayesh Sachdev, Award-winning artist, sculptor, designer and founder of The Quirk Box

A limited-edition collaboration with Zara titled “Reverie,” released in October 2024, put the artist extraordinaire on the map. Jayesh’s work is an amalgamation of international styles, blending Japanese aesthetics, Mughal art and graphic design.

Talking about his art as an extension of a global language, he says, “More than just visuals, my work is a catalyst—provocative, thought-provoking, a conversation that lingers. It’s experimental, constantly evolving, shaped by technology, colour and a graphical language that feels both precise and unrestrained.”

“If the work doesn’t push me, emotionally, intellectually or technically, it doesn’t feel alive,” Jayesh says, emphasising the importance of authenticity in his art.

FUTURE TENSE

Jayesh is working on a new series that will examine the meaning of a temple—not as a physical space but as an idea. What do we hold sacred? Where does devotion exist outside of structured belief ?

“It’s a dialogue between form and faith, absence and presence,” he says.

3. Annkur Khosla, Distinguished architect and interior designer

From Pinto glass tiles being restored at 100-year-old Colonial homes in Mumbai to buildings refitted with Burma teak wood pillars covered in bituminous layers for weatherproofing, this distinguished architect and founder of Annkur Khosla Design Studio is renowned for her innovative approach to architecture and interior design. Having grown up in the hustle-bustle of South Mumbai, Annkur’s deep appreciation for the city’s landscape shaped her design sensibilities. Her sinuous use of form and function while sculpting fluid spaces corresponds perfectly to the city’s architectural marvels, like the Rajabai Tower and the high court building.

Annkur believes that design should be an extension of a person’s beliefs. It’s this very philosophy that she has imbibed in her work, like the recent revamp of Mira and Shahid Kapoor’s sea-facing Mumbai penthouse. Or even in 2021, when she designed Earth Café in Mumbai’s BKC neighbourhood. Her use of large windows that welcome natural light into the space and pastel, balmy hues to lend the area a sense of tranquillity indicate that her concepts stem from a place of deep thought and a personal philosophy of essentialism and simplicity.

Honoured on numerous occasions for her illustrious designs, Annkur is also an advocate for the next generation of architects and designers. She mentors young talent in the field, sharing her knowledge and expertise to help shape the future of the industry.

INFLUENCE QUOTIENT

She was the creative hand who revamped Shahid and Mira Kapoor’s new Mumbai home as well as Earth Café. Her claim to fame: Restoring 100-year-old Colonial homes and mentoring young talent along the way.

FUTURE TENSE

With a prime focus on sustainable architecture and innovative design, Annkur may expand her studio internationally, collaborate with global brands and explore social impact projects. As a mentor and thought leader, she will lead the way in championing a new generation of architects who bring eco-friendly designs to the forefront of their repertoire.

Photo by Mandar Deodhar for Annkur Khosla