Hello! Today’s edition of Lit Visions is a podcast with Gregory David Roberts, author of the internationally best-selling novel, Shantaram.
The conversation happened in 2021 and was first published on a different podcast. But given the timelessness of its themes and overlap with Lit Visions, I am delighted to resurrect it here.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Today’s episode is with Gregory David Roberts (GDR), author of Shantaram, a breathtaking novel set in 1980s Bombay that’s sold over six million copies and hailed as a 'masterpiece'.
His latest book is The Spiritual Path which describes the step-by-step process he followed in search of spiritual connection. In his own words:
“The Spiritual Path is a book on spiritual matters that my younger self wanted desperately: one that offers more answers than questions, and helps to reset the spiritual compass.”
GDR also produces music from a studio in Jamaica. He has lived an insanely adventurous life: from being on the run as Australia's most wanted man to forging passports for the Bombay mafia to going off the grid for 6 years, in pursuit of a spiritual master.
In the 71 minutes of conversation, GDR shares wisdom, perspectives and stories that are sure to resonate with listeners. He's a master of his craft and an embodiment of inspiration. It’s an episode that I will never forget.
Where you can find us:
GDR on Instagram: instagram.com/gdr_shantaram
GDR on Twitter: twitter.com/GDR_Shantaram
Dhru on Instagram: instagram.com/dkarwa
Dhru on Twitter: twitter.com/dhrupadkarwa
Mentioned in the episode:
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
The Mountain Shadow by Gregory David Roberts
The Spiritual Path by Gregory David Roberts
Lit Visions - for essays, podcasts, speculative fiction and novel suggestions
Show notes:
0:00 - Introduction
1:07 - On never giving up
4:32 - Finding inspiration in prison
12:54 - Writing 'The Spiritual Path'
20:03 - Spirituality and Creation
27:34 - His relationship with ambition
42:32 - The power of music
46:50 - How GDR self-identifies
50:31 - India and Jamaica
55:40 - AI Idea Jam x Spirituality
1:01:12 - When GDR inspired others
1:04:27 - Future of AI
Finding Inspiration in Prison | Gregory David Roberts