Smriti Irani Turns Novelist; Know The Subject Of Her First Book

New Delhi: Union Minister and former TV actress Smriti Zubin Irani has turned author. Her first novel ‘Lal Salaam’, being published by Westland, will be released on November 29.

The novel is inspired by the killing of 76 CRPF personnel at Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada in April 2010, and pays tribute to men and women who have served the country over the years, especially those who have borne the brunt of the red corridor.

“The story has been brewing at the back of my mind for a few years now, until there came a time when I simply couldn’t ignore the urge to put it down on paper. I am hoping readers will enjoy the pace and the insights I have tried to bring to the narrative, which is set in a less-reported part of India,” said Smriti, minister for Women and Child Development.

‘Lal Salaam’ narrates the story about the challenges a young officer Vikram Pratap Singh faces against a system that is rife with backroom politics and corruption.

“A novel that combines all the ingredients of a fast-paced thriller — pace, action, suspense, memorable characters and situations – ‘Lal Salaam’ is a page-turner that’s bound to hook the reader from start to finish,” said Karthika VK, publisher, Westland.