In this episode of Jam With Sam, we sit down with Gajra Kottary, an acclaimed writer known for her work in television, books, and screenwriting. From her early days as a journalist to writing award-winning TV shows like Balika Vadhu and Astitva, and publishing novels that explore deep social themes, Gajra’s journey is one of passion, persistence, and storytelling excellence.
From Journalism to Fiction: A Leap of Faith
Gajra’s career began in Delhi, where she studied at Lady Shri Ram College and later topped her postgraduate course in journalism at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, earning the prestigious Hindu Gold Medal.
Despite her love for writing, journalism didn’t feel like the right fit. She worked with The Statesman and later became a correspondent for Magna Publishing, writing for Society Magazine. However, after moving to Mumbai, she took an eight-year career break to focus on family—a period she later realized helped her refine her storytelling skills.
Her shift from journalism to fiction writing began with short stories and later led to her first collection of stories, which caught the attention of filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. This pivotal moment opened the doors to television, where she would go on to create some of India’s most impactful shows.
TV Writing: Redefining Indian Television
Gajra’s television career started with Hamare Tumhare on Zee TV in 1999, but her breakthrough came with Astitva – Ek Prem Kahani, a show that defied norms by centering on a 34-year-old female doctor navigating love and career.
- Astitva (2002-2006) – A critically acclaimed show that challenged the stereotype of Indian women in television, running for 668 episodes.
- Balika Vadhu (2008-2016) – A groundbreaking series tackling child marriage, which ran for eight years and became a cultural phenomenon.
- Buddha – A historical series requiring extensive research and creative interpretation.
Her ability to balance entertainment with meaningful narratives made her a sought-after television writer. with the capital and expertise to start funding startups and mentoring new entrepreneurs.
Transition to Books: A More Personal Canvas
While television gave her mass recognition, Gajra turned to novel writing for creative freedom. Her books explore women’s lives, family dynamics, and social issues.
- Broken Melodies (2011) – A semi-autobiographical novel about complex family relationships.
- Once Upon a Star – A behind-the-scenes look at the Indian film industry.
- Girls Don’t Cry – A multi-generational story of women navigating life’s challenges.
Her writing continues to resonate with readers who seek stories that go beyond conventional storytelling.
Creative Producer & The Future of Storytelling
Gajra recently stepped into the role of a Creative Producer, overseeing content beyond just writing. She worked with Zindagi channel, which initially aired Pakistani dramas and later transitioned to Indian content.
As Indian entertainment shifts towards digital platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar, Gajra is actively exploring storytelling opportunities in the OTT space, recognizing the need for diverse, high-quality content that speaks to both urban and rural audiences.
Lessons from Gajra Kottary’s Journey
- Taking Breaks Can Lead to Big Breakthroughs – Her eight-year pause helped her discover her true passion for storytelling.
- Television & Books Offer Different Creative Freedoms – While TV reaches the masses, books allow for deeper, unrestricted storytelling.
- Quality Content Still Matters – Despite shifting trends, well-written stories will always find an audience.
Gajra Kottary’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling—whether through books, TV, or digital media, she continues to shape narratives that matter.
About Gajra Kottary:
Gajra Kottary is a writer, novelist, and television screenwriter known for her strong female protagonists and socially relevant themes. With award-winning TV shows, bestselling novels, and upcoming digital projects, she remains a force in Indian storytelling.