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For Alia Bhatt, both acting and writing stem from her profound interest in the storyline. “I’m overall interested in building the story’s universe,” Alia tells Midday over the release of her debut book, “Ed Finds a Home.”
Having co-authored the first book with Vivek Kamath and Shabnam Minwalla, with illustrations by Tanvi Bhat – she is all set to launch five more picture books under the “Adventures of Ed-a-mamma” series. Published by Puffin, the children`s division of Penguin Random House, the book is based on the themes of environmental responsibility.
Although now a writer, this actor-entrepreneur was once averse to writing as a child. “My mother used to force me to read but I never picked it up. I just could never read. It was my sister, Shaheen, who was a total bookworm. I was more like a daydreamer, lost in my imagination as a little girl,” she tells as she opens up about her childhood.
As a kid, the Gangubai actor admits to being an eccentric personality whose reality differed from those around her. “I used to be an oddball in school, often peeping out the classroom window. Perhaps this is why she forged bonds with nature in her book, as she tries to recreate her childhood memories through the journey of a little girl and her dog. “In the book, we gave this little girl a superpower – where she can communicate with animals, trees and birds and connect with her environment on a deeper level,” outlines the new mother.
“Ed Finds a Home” was launched at StoryVerse, a lit fest for children held at Jio World Drive on Sunday. In recognition of their commitment to environmental conservation, Ed-a-mamma invited children to pledge to the Earth reminding us of the collective responsibility to safeguard our planet for future generations. It was a lively celebration filled with joy and creativity where families and young readers enjoyed storytelling sessions and interactive activities.
The book is printed in full colour on sustainable paper, marking an industry first for any publishing house. This also aligns with Alia’s new sustainable clothing brand and vision to inspire a generation of mini-planeteers through storytelling. As an entrepreneur committed to environmental advocacy, Alia views Ed-a-Mamma as a movement toward positive change. By expanding the Ed-universe, starting with clothes, now books and to toys and a baby care range next – the objective is to infuse sustainability principles into every aspect of childhood.
Alia and her husband actor Ranbir Kapoor welcomed their daughter Raha in November 2022. Speaking about her journey of parenthood while reflecting on her privileged background which allows her more agency to seek help, she emphasises, “I have no real advice to give. Also, in general, I always steer away from giving advice because I feel everybody has their own journey and experience.”
Alia Bhatt was last seen in the film `Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani` opposite Ranveer Singh. She also turned producer in 2022 with the film `Darlings`. Recently, she turned executive producer for Richie Mehta`s web series `Poacher` which highlights the menace of elephant poaching in Kerala. The actress will next be seen in the film `Jigra` directed by Vasan Bala. She has also been signed in for the YRF Spy Universe.
Also Read: Alia Bhatt turns an author, talks about Raha`s role in inspiring her debut book
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