The author and poet Manahil Bandukwala is from Pakistan. She has become well-known for her powerful and thought-provoking poetry, which frequently addresses issues of social justice, identity, culture, and love.
Manahil Bandukwala is a name that has been rising in the world of modern Pakistani literature because of her moving and provocative works. Manahil’s work as a poet, author, and artist demonstrates her distinct voice and viewpoint, which are firmly anchored in her Pakistani background and culture.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of Manahil Bandukwala, exploring her inspirations, creative process, and the themes that drive her writing.
The Spark that Ignited a Passion for Writing
Manahil’s journey as a writer began at a young age, with her interest in writing being nurtured through opportunities to publish short stories in anthologies for Pakistani youth. However, it wasn’t until she was completing her undergraduate degree in English and writing poetry that she seriously considered publishing her work. Manahil reflects on the continuous development of her unique voice, shaped by her reading habits and observations of the world around her.
I think of my writing voice as continuously developing out of what I read and what I observe and experience in the world.
Manahil Bandukwala
Drawing Inspiration from Pakistani Heritage and Culture
Manahil’s connection to her Pakistani heritage and culture is a significant aspect of her writing. In 2019, she embarked on a project called Reth aur Reghistan, which explored folklore from Karachi and Sindh through sculpture, poetry, and community arts. This project was a conscious effort to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan, which had been overshadowed by Western fairy tales during her childhood.
Manahil’s writing, which is full with the language, images, and inspirations of her heritage, has also been greatly influenced by her experiences growing up in Karachi and living in a diaspora in Canada for the past decade.
A Memorable Experience that Changed Her Perspective
One of the most important events in Manahil’s writing career was when she saw writing as a joyous and enjoyable activity. During the early pandemic lockdowns, she found comfort in writing love poetry, which allowed her to explore themes of grief and isolation in a liberated manner. That realization shifted her perspective on writing, and she began to see it as a labor of love rather than a source of suffering.
Exploring Themes of Identity, Culture, and Social Justice
Manahil’s writing is distinguished by its thought-provoking examination of issues like as identity, culture, and social justice. When asked what motivates her to tackle these complicated matters, she mentions art and literature that resonate with her, which frequently deal with similar themes. Her motivation for researching these issues develops from a desire to contribute to the cultural conversation and highlight the perspectives of neglected people.
Approaching Sensitive Subjects with Care and Clarity
When writing about sensitive or challenging issues, Manahil points out the significance of allowing herself time and space to process her feelings. She also recognizes the need of setting aside important topics when required, enabling herself to address them with attention and depth. This careful approach reflects her dedication to creating literature that is both meaningful and effective.
Upcoming Projects and Books
Manahil’s most recent book is “Heliotropia”, her second full-length poetry collection that examines love through the perspectives of science fiction and sufism.
She is now working on a collection of hypothetical short fiction that explores Pakistanis’ interpersonal relationships in fantasy, modern, and futuristic settings. This upcoming project looks to be a fascinating investigation of the Pakistani experience, and we eagerly await its publication.
Advice for Young Desi Women and Non-Binary Individuals
Manahil delivers words of wisdom to young desi women and non-binary people who want to write or pursue creative endeavors. She emphasizes the significance of finding a supportive group, which can be difficult but necessary for developing one’s creative spirit. Manahil acknowledges the possibility of harsh reactions, particularly from inside the desi community, but advises aspiring writers to persevere and remain loyal to their vision.
Manahil Bandukwala’s writing demonstrates the capacity of literature to portray the complexity of the human experience. Her poetry and fiction provide a distinct viewpoint on identity, culture, and social justice, rooted in her Pakistani origin. As we anticipate her upcoming initiatives, we are reminded of the necessity of promoting and amplifying the voices of writers like Manahil, who are pushing forward the boundaries of literary expression and forcing us to think critically about the world around us.
Follow Manahil Bandukwala on Instagram @manahilbanduk to stay updated on her latest writing projects, inspirations, and creative endeavors!