.jpg "Geeta Mehta Biography- Early Life, Education, Career, Family, Husband, Children and Death")
Who is Geeta Mehta
Gita Mehta, formerly known as Gita Patnaik, was born in 1943 and passed away on September 16, 2023. She was a writer and documentary filmmaker of both Indian and American heritage. Throughout her career, she engaged in journalism and documentary filmmaking, with a particular focus on reporting on various wars and conflicts. One of her significant contributions was her coverage of the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.
Apart from her work in journalism and documentary filmmaking, Gita Mehta was a successful author, having published five books. These books enjoyed translations into more than 21 languages, reflecting their broad international appeal. Her literary works primarily revolved around India and were crafted to provide a thoughtful and accessible interpretation of the country, primarily for a Western readership.
| Name | Gita Mehta |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gita Mehta (formerly Gita Patnaik) |
| Birth | 1943 |
| Birthplace | Delhi, India |
| Father | Biju Patnaik |
| Mother | Gyan Patnaik |
| Brother | Naveen Patnaik (Chief Minister of Odisha) |
| Husband | Sonny Mehta (Former head of Alfred A. Knopf) |
| Son | Aditya Singh Mehta |
| Profession | Writer, Documentary Filmmaker |
| Age | 80 (at the time of death) |
| Death | September 16, 2023 |
| Place of Death | New Delhi, India |
| Award | Declined the Padma Shri (2019) |
Early Life-Family, Education
Gita Mehta came into this world in Delhi in 1943 as the daughter of Gyan and Biju Patnaik. Her father, Biju Patnaik, played a pivotal role in India's fight for independence and later served as the chief minister of Odisha, which was then referred to as Orissa. Remarkably, her younger brother, Naveen Patnaik, has held the position of Odisha's chief minister since the year 2000.
Early Education and Boarding School
Gita's early years were marked by her entry into a boarding school at the tender age of three. This significant step was taken during a challenging period when her father was arrested as part of the Indian independence movement.
Educational Journey
Her academic journey led her to pursue her education in India and later at Girton College, Cambridge, in the United Kingdom.
Gita Mehta's Career
Gita Mehta established herself as a prominent figure in the world of television and literature. She embarked on her career by producing and directing television documentaries, contributing to various networks in the UK, Europe, and the US. Her significant role as a television war correspondent for the US network NBC during 1970-1971 showcased her dedication to covering global events.
A Cinematic Achievement
One of her standout accomplishments was the creation of the documentary "Dateline Bangladesh," chronicling the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. This compelling film found its way to cinemas in both India and abroad, leaving a lasting impact.
Literary Ventures
Gita Mehta's foray into literature was marked by her first book, "Karma Cola," published in 1979. In this work, she took aim at the Western audience's fascination with the notion of achieving instant spiritual enlightenment by journeying to India and seeking out a guru.
In "Raj," a fictional piece published in 1989, Mehta delved into the captivating tale of a princess hailing from two Indian princely states. Her second work of fiction, "A River Sutra" (1993), comprised a collection of short stories that skillfully bridged Indian mythology with contemporary Indian life, all connected by the sacred Indian river, Narmada.
| Book | Publication Year |
|---|---|
| Karma Cola | 1979 |
| Raj | 1989 |
| A River Sutra | 1993 |
| Snakes and Ladders | 1997 |
Exploring India
Her book "Snakes and Ladders" (1997) was a compilation of insightful essays exploring India and its way of life, marking a tribute to the country's fiftieth independence anniversary.
Global Recognition
Gita Mehta's literary prowess shone brightly as her books were translated into 21 languages and secured spots on bestseller lists across Europe, the US, and India. Her works, both fiction and non-fiction, predominantly revolve around India's rich culture and history, often framed within a Western perspective.
In an interview with Publishers Weekly, Mehta explained her mission, saying, "I wanted to make modern India accessible to Westerners and to a whole generation of Indians who have no idea what happened 25 years before they were born."
A Humble Gesture
In 2019, Gita Mehta was honored with India's fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri. However, she chose to decline this prestigious recognition, stating concerns about the timing of the award and the potential for it to be misconstrued, particularly in light of the upcoming general elections at that time.
Personal Life
In 1965, Gita Mehta entered into a lifelong partnership with Sonny Mehta, who notably served as the head of the prestigious Alfred A. Knopf publishing house. Their connection was forged during their academic pursuits while studying at Cambridge, marking the beginning of a shared journey filled with literary and intellectual pursuits.
Their love story was adorned with the arrival of their son, Aditya Singh Mehta, further enriching their lives and extending their family legacy.
Sadly, Gita Mehta faced the loss of her beloved husband in 2019. Sonny Mehta's passing marked a poignant chapter in their shared history, leaving a void in the literary world.
Throughout her life, Gita Mehta navigated a global existence, dividing her time between the vibrant metropolises of New York City, London, and her cherished home, New Delhi. Her multi-dimensional life reflected her deep connection to the diverse cultural landscapes she inhabited.
On September 16, 2023, at the age of 80, Gita Mehta bid farewell to the world from her residence in New Delhi, leaving behind a rich tapestry of literary and cinematic contributions that continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
