In the 79th episode of Jam With Sam, Sampath Iyengar engages in a heartwarming conversation with Nandita Puri, renowned journalist, author, and founder of the Om Puri Foundation. From her early days in Calcutta to preserving her late husband Om Puri’s legacy, Nandita shares her life’s journey, blending personal anecdotes with professional milestones.
Early Life in Historical Calcutta
Nandita Puri’s upbringing in Chandanagar, a former French colony near Calcutta, was steeped in history and culture. Educated at a Roman Catholic boarding school, she was surrounded by French street names and traditions. Her academic journey included a Bachelor’s in English literature from Loreto College and a Master’s from Jadavpur University. However, her love for painting and history was set aside, influenced by societal norms, as she pursued literature.
After moving to Bombay in 1993, she transitioned seamlessly into the city’s dynamic media landscape.
A Storied Career in Journalism
Nandita’s journalism career began in the early 1990s at The Telegraph in Calcutta. Her knack for storytelling quickly earned her recognition, leading to opportunities with The Statesman, Amrita Bazaar Patrika, and Illustrated Weekly. Her column, Potpourri, a pun on her name, offered readers a ringside view of Bollywood and international cinema during her tenure at Midday.
Her experience extended to broadcast journalism, working with All India Radio as a western music DJ and later contributing to India’s first FM radio broadcast under Mark Tully.
Literary Achievements and Notable Books
Nandita’s transition from journalism to authoring books was catalyzed by encouragement from her husband, Om Puri, and lyricist Gulzar. Her collection of short stories, Nine on Nine, explored the lives of urban Indian women and received critical acclaim, even becoming part of university syllabi.
Her most significant work, Unlikely Hero, is a biography of her husband Om Puri. Chronicling his life from humble beginnings to international acclaim, the book captures the essence of a man who bridged Indian and global cinema. The foreword, written by actor Patrick Swayze, is a testament to Om Puri’s global influence.
Nandita is currently working on her fourth book, Jennifer’s Story, which sheds light on the dark world of child trafficking and adoption rackets.
Preserving a Legacy: The Om Puri Foundation
Founded after Om Puri’s sudden passing in 2017, the Om Puri Foundation honors his contributions to cinema and society. It organizes film screenings, scholarships, and memorial lectures to promote the arts and support underprivileged communities. Initiatives like the Om Puri Scholar and Om Puri Fellow provide financial aid to deserving students in theater and cinema.
In keeping with Om’s philanthropic spirit, the foundation also supports farmers and weavers, reflecting his rural roots and deep compassion.
A Life Beyond Journalism
Nandita’s talents extend to screenwriting, with credits including Mera Dil Leke Dekho and an adaptation of her upcoming book, Jennifer’s Story. She has also dabbled in filmmaking, having witnessed masters like Steven Spielberg and Shyam Benegal at work.
Despite her accomplishments, Nandita’s humour, humility, and love for lazing with a coffee-filled creative streak are what truly define her.
About Nandita Puri:
Nandita Puri is an acclaimed journalist, author, and screenwriter. Known for her poignant storytelling, she authored Unlikely Hero, the biography of her late husband Om Puri. As the founder of the Om Puri Foundation, she works to preserve his legacy while promoting arts, education, and philanthropy.