(April 28, 2024) Engineers make for terrific writers. Monica Saigal is proof enough. While her passion for writing has always been paralleled by her love for food — a sentiment deeply rooted in her family’s culture, it is Monica’s structured thinking process, analytical skills, and a methodical approach that breathes life into her work. “Stories don’t just captivate but also foster understanding and connection across cultures,” smiles Monica Saigal, one of the most illustrious figures in the realms of food writing and storytelling, as she settles down for a chat with Global Indian.
From culinary arts to fiction and inspirational literature, Monica has authored 12 books spanning genres — a journey that encapsulates a remarkable blend of perseverance, creativity and cultural exploration. The US-based author, who is also a brand strategist for a tech firm, is presently basking in the success of her latest book, A Kiss in Kashmir, which has resonated with audiences across the globe. Her books on food have received recognition from culinary stars like Padma Lakshmi and Vikas Khanna, who even named a dish at his new restaurant after Kiss in Kashmir. Monica has also spoken on NPR, at The Smithsonian, and Yale University.
‘A Kiss in Kashmir’
Monica Saigal, author, A Kiss in Kashmir
“A Kiss in Kashmir is not just a novel, it’s a reflection of my belief that love knows no age, says Monica. The inspiration for this book came from a desire to challenge societal norms that often confine romantic tales to youthful protagonists. Set in Kashmir—a place etched in her memory by Bollywood films that have long since depicted it as a paradise of love—the story features Sharmila and George, who discover that their sunset years can be just as vibrant and filled with passion as their youth.
The author feels that Kashmir, with its surreal beauty and tumultuous history, acts not only as a setting but as a character that parallels the complexity and depth of mature love. “I started writing this book with the intention of capturing the essence of rediscovering love, inspired by those who dare to embrace their hearts’ desires regardless of their age,” she informs.
This novel, says the author, champions the idea that true affection and companionship are boundless, welcoming everyone with open arms, at any stage of life. “It’s a narrative that I hope encourages readers to look beyond the conventional and celebrate love in all its forms.”
While each of her 12 books holds a special place in her heart, A Kiss in Kashmir stands out for its deep connection with her readers and its exploration of themes close to her own experiences and values.
Creative family
Born into a creative family in Delhi, Monica Saigal’s childhood was steeped in storytelling and gastronomy. From a young age, Monica was immersed in a world where spices were not just ingredients but treasures that came with stories about freshness, origin, and the magic they brought to each meal.
Growing up listening to her grandmother’s rich tales, she would help her mother in the kitchen, where she expertly crafted each dish. Her parents, both naturally gifted cooks, were her first culinary mentors. “My father excelled at grilling on a makeshift hibachi on our balcony, turning simple prawns into exquisite feasts, while mother crafted curries that perfectly balanced spice and flavor,” recalls the author, who is now based in Washington, DC. Her father, an engineer, was also a passionate poet who shared stories of his travels from the gardens of Paris to the cafes of Beirut, instilling in her a profound love for narratives and adventure.
Growing up, food was more than sustenance, it was a means of connection. “I remember preparing a grand lamb curry for my parents’ anniversary when I was just ten, feeling the joy of sharing through food,” smiles the mother of two. This foundation of creativity continued to flourish when her family moved to Bahrain during Monica’s teenage years. There, she attended the Indian School, where she engaged deeply in debate teams and public speaking, setting the stage for her future in storytelling.
Education in US
Monica’s academic journey led her to pursue an engineering degree from BMS College in Bangalore, followed by master’s degrees in information systems from George Washington University and Lynchburg College in the United States. “These academic experiences provided me with a structured thinking process and analytical skills, which later helped in my writing and culinary explorations.”
She describes her educational experiences in the U.S. as eye-opening and formative. “Attending Lynchburg College and George Washington University exposed me to a diverse array of perspectives and broadened my understanding of the world,” says Monica, who was 20 when she went to the US.
Following her passion
“My shift from a secure career in engineering to the uncertain world of writing was catalyzed by a personal tragedy—the sudden death of a close friend,” informs Monica. This loss prompted a profound reevaluation of her life’s direction. Although engineering provided a stable livelihood, it was writing that truly captured her heart.
This transition was not easy; it involved navigating the complex landscape of publishing with no prior experience in the field. “However, the challenge was invigorating and fulfilling, marking the beginning of a successful career in writing that has allowed me to connect with audiences around the world through my stories and culinary adventures,” says the writer.
Food writing
Cooking became a way to bring people together, to share stories and experiences. “This connection deepened as I grew, intertwining my love for writing with my culinary endeavours.”
Her professional foray into food writing began after she stumbled upon eGullet, an online forum for food enthusiasts. “This community became my haven, a place where I could discuss and write about food,” says the 54-year-old. Despite her initial hesitations, Monica’s contributions drew positive attention, leading to an invitation from eGullet’s founders to write an article. This opportunity marked a pivotal moment, affirming her ability to resonate with others through her culinary stories.
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The positive feedback she received fuelled her journey, leading to formal opportunities in food writing. Her work culminated in the publication of several cookbooks, including Modern Spice, which featured a foreword by Mark Bittman of The New York Times. This book was later released in India by Random House, marking a significant milestone in her career. “Each step in this journey has not only been about exploring food but also about rediscovering and asserting my cultural identity through the universal language of cuisine,” says Monica.
Some of Monica Saigal’s notable works include Read, Write, Reflect (2018), which explores the therapeutic benefits of writing, and The Soul Catcher (2021), a narrative that delves into spiritual and mystical realms. Her culinary books, like Modern Spice (2009), offer a contemporary take on traditional Indian flavors, blending the old with the new in exciting, accessible ways.
Monica’s book A Life of Spice too was well received. She says it’s a book about her torrid romance with food. “The book captures the delights of cooking as wooing and food as nurturer, as well as the sadness of the heartbreak kitchen,” says Monica, whose essays have been included in Best Food Writing 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2014 as well.
Praise from Padma Lakshmi
Indian-American author, model and television host Padma Lakshmi featured Monica Saigal’s first major cookbook — Modern Spice — on Newsweek.com and called it the “best book ever.”
The cookbook which included a variety of recipes like the Pomegranate Shrimp, Paneer, Fig Pizza, and Coriander-and-Fennel-Crusted Lamb Chops, showcased her innovative takes on traditional flavors. “It underscores the impact of my work and reminds me of the powerful role that food and storytelling play in connecting and inspiring people across different cultures and communities,” says Monica about praise from Padma Lakshmi.
Chef Vikas Khanna names a dish
Monica Saigal with Chef Vikas Khanna
Celebrity Chef Vikas Khanna, who also happens to be her friend, too has praised Monica’s work. “He provided a glowing endorsement of my novel (A Kiss in Kashmir) which not only helped elevate the book’s profile but also brought it into the culinary world in a unique way,” says Monica.
In a heartfelt nod to their friendship and the themes of her book, Vikas named a dish after the novel at his new restaurant, Bungalow, in New York City. “The recognition from such esteemed figures as Padma Lakshmi and Vikas Khanna has been incredibly affirming.”
Recognition as a writer
Monica has also graced platforms such as NPR, the Smithsonian Institution, Georgetown University and Yale University. “Having the chance to speak and present at these institutions has been the highlight of my writing career. Each lecture and classroom discussion has opened up new perspectives and challenged my own views, enriching my understanding of the world,” she says.
In these diverse settings, she not only shared her knowledge and stories but also learned so much in return. “Every conversation has been a lesson in empathy and the universal human experiences we all share—our hopes, our fears, and our dreams.”
Corporate world
Before dedicating herself fully to writing, Monica gained valuable experience in the corporate world at Ernst & Young and Hewitt Associates. “These roles honed my analytical and strategic skills, which proved essential when I ventured into publishing,” says Monica. Managing her own publishing business for 14 years provided insights into the literary world, preparing her for the various challenges and opportunities that would come her way as a writer.
In her current role as a brand strategist, Monica uses her narrative skills to craft compelling stories that highlight their innovations and the impactful work of her team, informs Monica, whose daily routine involves curating content, strategising social media outreach, and hosting the company’s podcast.
She says this role blends her love for storytelling with her expertise in strategy, allowing her to reach a wide audience and impact the tech community positively. “I work by day for the company and by night for myself as an author,” she smiles.
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What’s next?
This October, Monica is releasing a children’s book with Random House, designed to captivate young minds with enchanting illustrations and engaging narratives that spark imagination and curiosity.
“Following that, I am working on another romance novel, set to be published next year, which will further explore themes of love, resilience, and the human condition,” informs the author adding the two projects are a continuation of her lifelong passion for storytelling and a testament to her commitment to touching lives through literature.
Creative Bee
Alongside her writing, Monica has been exploring other creative avenues like painting, which she says is an exhilarating way to express herself in a new medium. “I’m also learning the art of making Turkish lamps, which has been both challenging and rewarding,” informs Monica, who is also passionate about teaching and is currently developing a new writing workshop designed to help participants explore their inner selves and discover their soul’s purpose through creative writing.
“We’ll be incorporating various healing modalities to support this journey, aiming to provide a holistic approach to personal and creative growth,” she adds.
Bibliography
Inspirational Books
- In Conversation with Exceptional Women (ebook)
- Read, Write, Reflect (Bodes Well Publishing, 2018)
Fiction and Short Stories
- The Soul Catcher (Bodes Well Publishing, 2021)
- Karma and the Art of Butter Chicken (Bodes Well Publishing, 2016)
- The Devil In Us (2014)
- The Soul Catcher (Bodes Well Publishing, 2017)
- Tattletales (Bodes Well Publishing 2017)
Food Essays and Cookbooks
- A Life of Spice (2015)
- Modern Spice: Inspired Indian Flavors for the Contemporary Kitchen, (Simon and Schuster, 2009; Random House India, 2010)
- The Everything Indian Cookbook: 300 Tantalizing Recipes from Sizzling Tandoor Chicken to Fiery Lamb Vindaloo (Adams Media, 2004)
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