Interview with Aslam Rahaman, Author "Friendship Bites "

Discover insights from Aslam Rahaman, author of 'Friendship Bites,' in our exclusive interview. Dive into the story behind the book and his writing journey.

on Aug 04, 2024

Interview with Aslam Rahaman, Author of "Friendship Bites" | Frontlist

Aslam Rahaman, a seasoned banker seamlessly intertwines his financial acumen with a fervent passion for storytelling. An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, University of Lucknow, Mahatma Jyotibaphule Rohilkhand University and City Montessori School of Lucknow, Aslam's literary journey mirrors the dynamic lives of young urban Indians. His debut novel, "The Fortune Hunters," emerged as a national bestseller, captivating both readers and critics alike. The success continued with his second novel, "Friendship Bites," achieving national bestseller status within months of release, earning praise from readers and reviewers. Aslam's unique blend of banking expertise and narrative prowess cements his place as a notable author in contemporary Indian literature.

Frontlist: Your background in banking is quite impressive. How did you transition from a career in banking to becoming a successful author? Was there a pivotal moment or experience that prompted this shift?

Aslam: My career hasn't experienced a transition or shift; banking remains my profession, while writing has always been my passion. I've been writing since childhood, beginning with poems and short stories. My love for storytelling inspired me to write a novel based on an idea I had. I started with a few pages, which became a chapter, and as more chapters were added, it eventually turned into a complete novel. Balancing both pursuits has been fulfilling, as my professional experiences in banking and exciting personal life often provide rich material and insights for my writing.

Frontlist: The themes of love and betrayal are central to your novel. What motivated you to explore these themes, and how did you approach the complexities of these emotions in your characters?

Aslam: The themes of love and betrayal in "Friendship Bites" were motivated by my own observations and experiences with human relationships. I wanted to delve into the intricate dynamics that often exist between friends, showcasing how deep bonds can be both heartening and, at times, fraught with challenges. To approach the complexities of these emotions in my characters, I drew from real-life situations and psychological insights. I aimed to create multidimensional characters whose actions and reactions are grounded in authenticity, making their experiences relatable and compelling to readers.

Frontlist: How did you develop Aryan’s character throughout the book? Did his journey of self-discovery and the reevaluation of his relationships mirror any real-life experiences or observations?

Aslam: Developing Aryan's character in "Friendship Bites" was a meticulous process. I wanted his journey of self-discovery and realisation to be genuine and resonant. Aryan starts as someone who is confident and seemingly has everything sorted out, but as the story progresses, he faces challenges that force him to question his beliefs and priorities. His journey mirrors many real-life experiences and observations. I've seen how people often undergo significant personal growth when confronted with unexpected situations. Aryan's character is a blend of these observations and my own experiences of self-reflection and growth. Through Aryan, I aimed to explore how friendships and personal trials can shape and redefine us, making his evolution relatable to readers.

Frontlist: Which part of "Friendship Bites" did you feel the most emotionally connected to while writing? Why?

Aslam: In "Friendship Bites," the scenes set in the hostel and on campus were where I felt the most emotionally connected. In these moments, the protagonists confront their deepest fears and vulnerabilities, ultimately finding strength and solace in their friendship. These scenes resonated with me because they encapsulate the essence of true friendship—support, understanding, and unconditional acceptance. Writing these parts allowed me to explore the profound impact that genuine connections can have on overcoming life's challenges, making it a deeply personal and moving experience.

Frontlist: How do you feel you have evolved as a writer over the years, particularly from your debut novel, "The Fortune Hunters," to "Friendship Bites"? Are there any particular lessons or experiences that have significantly shaped your writing style or approach?

Aslam: Over the years, I feel I have evolved significantly as a writer. From my debut novel, "The Fortune Hunters," which was released more than a decade ago, to "Friendship Bites," my writing style and approach have matured and deepened. One key lesson I've learned is the importance of authenticity—writing stories that are true to my experiences and emotions. With "The Fortune Hunters," I focused heavily on plot and structure, ensuring every detail was meticulously planned. However, with "Friendship Bites," I allowed myself to delve more into character development and emotional depth, letting the story flow more organically. This shift has brought a richer, more nuanced quality to my writing. Additionally, the experiences and feedback from readers over the years have taught me to trust my voice and embrace vulnerability in my storytelling. These lessons have significantly shaped my approach, making my narratives more relatable and impactful.

Frontlist: Friendship Day celebrates the strength and importance of bonds. In your experience, what are the qualities that define a true friend, especially during times of hardship?

Aslam: In my experience, the qualities that define a true friend, especially during times of hardship, are unwavering support, deep empathy, and the courage to stand up for you. A true friend is someone who remains steadfast by your side through thick and thin, offering unconditional acceptance and never passing judgment. They are there to provide a shoulder to lean on when you need it the most, intuitively understanding your emotions and needs, and offering comfort simply through their presence. Additionally, a true friend gives sincere advice and constructive criticism when necessary, guiding you with honesty and care. They help you grow and navigate life's difficult situations, always with your best interests at heart. These qualities—steadfast support, empathetic understanding, and honest guidance—create a foundation of trust and mutual respect that can withstand any challenge, making the bond of friendship resilient and enduring.