Dubai: Hundreds of readers, most of them schoolgoers, eagerly waited for Ruskin Bond, an icon among Indian writers, for an interactive session and book signing at the Sharjah International Book fair on Wednesday night.
The legendary writer displayed wit and humour as he happily interacted with his readers. The author had his fans smiling when in response to a query on how he felt on getting a Lifetime Achievement Award, recently conferred on him by the Delhi government, he said: "It means I am very old, perhaps they just mean we have had enough, it's time to go home.."
He was quick to express his appreciation for his readers and pointing out to the massive crowd, remarked: "Sixty years ago there would not be a crowd like this. Writing did not happen in a public domain and it was not fashionable either to be a writer. Today you are recognisable."
When asked if any of his books have not been published, Bond narrated an interesting story of his childhood. "I wrote this book when I was in school.. I included my teachers in the story and was caught by the principal.. So if you are writing, do not write about your teachers," he said.
He shared with the readers his love for India, his experiences in writing, on how he started and also talked about the movies based on his books.
Among his fans present on the occasion was Indian Consul General Sanjay Verma, who also carried with him a couple of Ruskin Bond's books for signing by the author.
