Saturday Live Reeta Chakrabarti, Alistair Wood, Jack Rutter, Rory Kinnear
May 10, 2025
Reeta Chakrabarti, a BBC journalist and debut novelist, shares insights into her multicultural background and the emotional journeys behind her storytelling. Alistair Wood, having grown up in an MI6 training camp, unveils intriguing family tales of espionage. Jack Rutter, a Paralympic hero and motivational speaker, reflects on his recovery from a severe brain injury and the transformative power of sport. Their engaging conversations explore themes of identity, resilience, and the warmth of shared experiences.
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Reeta Chakrabarti's Novel Roots
- Reeta Chakrabarti's debut novel, Finding Bell, draws on her own experiences growing up mixed-race in Britain in the 1970s.
- The story moves between Milton Keynes, Mombasa, and Kolkata, offering a vivid atmosphere of multicultural life and family struggles.
Growing Up in Kolkata
- Reeta moved to Kolkata at 15, attending an international school and becoming a better Bengali speaker.
- Though overwhelmed by the city, she grew fond of its buildings, people, and vibrant culture.
Assimilation vs. Embracing Identity
- Reeta suppressed her Indian side at school to assimilate during her childhood.
- This contrasts with her children's generation, who openly embrace their mixed heritage.
