TN10: Priya Malhotra, Author of Woman of An Uncertain Age
Your Age: 48
Basic bio: Priya has been a writer and journalist in New York for almost 20 years and has contributed to Newsday, Time Out New York, The Times of India, The Japan Times, Asian Art News, Cosmopolitan and News India Times.
Beyond the bio: Aging has given me a sense of how ephemeral life is, of how short our time on earth is. So I’m less attached to things. I’m also less obsessed with “achieving” and “having” than when I was younger. The old adage “This too shall pass” is always in the corner of my mind, sending light to my thoughts.
What makes you a grown-ass lady?
Being over 40 has given me the ability to accept unwelcome changes more easily. I’m much more comfortable with myself and my own strengths and weaknesses now. I feel confident and the opinions of other people matter much less. I also find myself needing less approval from the outside world.
Here’s her TueNight 10:
On the nightstand: My book, of course. My hope is that people read and enjoy it but I also wish that it adds more color and complexity to their ideas of older women and their lives.
Can't stop/won’t stop: can't stop acting silly or dancing in public when I feel like it. And I will not stop being myself. ALL OF MYSELF.
Jam of the minute: My favorite song right now is a Bollywood song….Kesariya. It’s slightly cheesy but instantly uplifts my mood.
Thing I miss: Energy to stay up late and party, read books and basically do whatever I want and still be able to function properly in the morning.
‘80s crush: Everyone in the A-ha band. The ones who sang "Take on Me."
Current crush: Waiting for that exhilarating feeling of intoxication...I am married though.
Latest fav find: This deep sleep meditation video on YouTube.
Last thing you lost: Besides my mind, you mean?? :}
Best thing that happened recently: My novel getting published and my lengthy trip to India, where I'm from.
Looking forward to: Peace, travel, contentment and not having to struggle to find readers.