Santanu Bhattacharya Challenges Labels in Art with 'Deviants'
- MediaFx
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
TL;DR: Author Santanu Bhattacharya, in his latest novel 'Deviants', explores the lives of three queer characters across different generations, emphasizing that art shouldn't be confined by labels. He believes that novels are meant to bring imaginary lives to reality, not to push specific agendas.
Santanu Bhattacharya, the author of 'One Small Voice', has come up with another banger titled 'Deviants'. This novel dives deep into the lives of three queer characters from different generations – a grand-uncle, an uncle, and a nephew. Through their stories, Bhattacharya questions the legacies we inherit and the ever-changing landscape of queer life.
In a candid chat at the Kerala Literature Festival, Bhattacharya shared that he doesn't vibe with the idea of labeling art. He said, "A novel is not a place where you push an agenda; it’s a place where you make imaginary lives come true." He emphasized that while stories can add to the canon, the goal isn't for characters to represent anything beyond themselves. They should be portrayed with all their complexities – desires, disappointments, glories, and flaws.
Reflecting on his journey, Bhattacharya admitted that he wasn't exposed to much LGBTQ literature growing up. He mentioned, "In the pre-internet era, you couldn’t search for LGBTQ literature in South Asia. There was no attempt to canonize those works." This lack of representation made him realize the importance of telling stories that resonate with authenticity.
'Deviants' isn't just about queer identities; it's a deep dive into the human experience, challenging societal norms and urging readers to see beyond labels. Bhattacharya's storytelling is a reminder that art should be free from constraints, allowing characters to live their truths unapologetically.
In today's world, where art is often boxed into categories, Bhattacharya's perspective is a breath of fresh air. He urges us to consume art without preconceived notions, to embrace stories in their purest forms, and to celebrate the diversity of human experiences.
At MediaFx, we believe that stories like 'Deviants' play a crucial role in promoting equality and challenging societal norms. By highlighting diverse narratives, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society.
