Vikram Seth was born in Kolkata, India, to successful parents. His mother was a distinguished judge, while his father held an executive position at a shoe company. Initially, Seth seemed poised for a career in the financial sector, but a trip to China for a thesis that was never completed redirected his path. Instead, his literary talents led him to become a poet and novelist.

Early Life

Vikram Seth, born in Kolkata, has ancestral roots in the Punjab region of India. The award-winning author spent his early years moving between India and the U.K. He attended St. Xavier’s High School and later completed his Bachelor’s degree at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. By the time he began his Ph.D. in economics at Stanford University, his enthusiasm for the financial sector had started to wane.

A Pivotal Trip to China

Understanding Vikram Seth's journey requires recognizing the significance of his 1980 trip to China. Originally intended to advance his financial education with a thesis on China's evolving economy, Seth's focus shifted towards writing. This shift culminated in the publication of his first book, "Mappings," a poetry collection that, while not a commercial hit, received positive critical reviews.

From 1980 to 1982, Seth immersed himself in Chinese literature. His experiences during this period inspired his debut novel, "From Heaven Lake," which chronicles his travels across China and back to India.

Literary Career

The success of "From Heaven Lake" allowed Vikram Seth to fully pursue his writing. He abandoned finance studies and focused on his literary aspirations. By 1986, he felt confident enough to experiment with his second novel, "The Golden Gate," which tells the intertwined stories of individuals in Silicon Valley and is notable for being written in verse. Seth's literary output continued throughout the 1980s, including another poetry book and a short story collection.

"A Suitable Boy" and Literary Acclaim

The 1990s marked a new era for Vikram Seth, beginning with the release of "A Suitable Boy." This novel, set before India's first general election post-independence, is considered one of the most significant works in Indian literature and remains Seth's magnum opus. At 1349 pages, it is the longest novel ever published in the English language. Though it centers on family dynamics, it also addresses the political and social challenges of post-colonial India.

Beyond Novel Writing

Vikram Seth's biography extends beyond his achievements as a novelist. He has also contributed to music, including writing for the English National Opera. Seth is an active advocate and has been in a long-term relationship with French musician Philippe Honore. His accolades include being appointed a Member of the British Empire by the Queen and receiving the Padma Shri in India.

FAQs

What is Vikram Seth famous for?
Seth is renowned as one of India’s most esteemed authors, with his novel "A Suitable Boy" being a global bestseller.

When did Vikram Seth start his career?
He began his career with the release of his first poetry collection, "Mappings," in 1980. His first novel, "From Heaven Lake," was published in 1983.

Who is Vikram Seth's partner?
Vikram Seth is openly gay and has been in a committed relationship with French musician Philippe Honore.