I don't think I would do better books if I wrote full time. I write for amateurish reasons.

Anyone who has grown up in Delhi knows it's horrible.

The more languages you know, the less likely you are to become a terrorist.

We are men without ambition, and all we want is to be left alone, in peace so that we can try and be happy. So few people will understand this simplicity.

I need to have some depth in my characters. That's why they are all Bengalis. I can't imagine writing a book with someone called Saxena as the hero.

Amidst one's daily clutter, one doesn't usually reflect on the splendour of being free because - naturally - one has to get on with the business of living.

Well, life is dark, isn't it? Mostly, it's dreadful. At the same time, death is funny too. I mean, look at the fuss we make of it.

So much better to write pen on paper; you can do it anywhere, say, while stuck at the airport.

People should have literary and cultural taste and should not bomb hotels.

It's a huge headache - the more money you have, the more hassles. I find money very uncomfortable.

I feel completely at home in the absurdities of India.

There are big advantages of living for God, therefore try to spend every minute you have walking with Him, listening to Him and learning of His wisdom

Come live with me and be my love And we will all the pleasures prove That valleys groves or hills or fields Or woods and steepy mountains yield.

I never went to acting school, so improv was my training. Just being quick on your feet helps in everyday life.

An actor is only merchandise.

Whatever class and race divergences exist, top cats are tom cats.

Compassion is a two way street.

It's very hard to have lived through the Sixties and not be political.

Cynics criticize and winners analyze.

If a sheep dies on the shore of the Euphrates I fear lest Allah ask me to account for it on the Day of Resurrection.

Fromage and coffee and cognac and no gods.