Why Ravinder Singh's romance novels are popular with the urban youth

Indian couples enjoying some private time away from the bustle in a park in New Delhi

Ravinder Singh sits lightly on his success in the world of romantic fiction. It becomes obvious when you watch him mingle with the audience at the release of his latest title, This Love Feels Right, published by Penguin Metro Reads, at a suburban mall. Amidst the weekend shopping melee, and a clash of ambient sounds, he's a natural as he mixes with the crowds, answering their queries about writing "romance-type novels."

Indian couples enjoying some private time away from the bustle in a park in New Delhi. Pic/ AFP

Dressed in a casual shirt and jeans, he could pass off as just another banker on a shopping exploit. His down-to-earth demeanour endears him to the crowds, clearly. Holding on to his every word, he's got his fan base - a motley mix of teenagers and young professionals - hooked, and booked. The buzz that his books generate with every release is insightful, as much as it is an indicator of the new urban reader, who loves to read about love, and then some more.

Edited extracts from an interview with Singh:

You're known as the King of Romantic Novels. What kind of research has helped you earn this title? Where did you find your characters for your recent novel?
I wouldn't do research to earn a title but to write a book. In fact, half of the books I have written are autobiographical in nature and didn't need one. However, I definitely did a lot of it when I wrote pure fiction. For example, my previous book, Your Dreams Are Mine Now and my latest book, This Love That Feels Right. I borrow my characters from people around me - the boy/girl next door.

Was it a challenge since the subject line isn't exactly conventional? What has the reaction been so far?
Oh! It's a big, big challenge not only because it's unconventional but also because this book handles an explosive subject. I had to handle it sensitively. As far as the reactions of readers go - I am blown away, in a happy way. People are writing long reviews. The book has given birth to a debate on open marriages.

From the holding of hands in public to unabashed PDA: is India unafraid to express love?
As far as the real world is considered, I was in Mumbai last week, and happened to see couples holding hands, and PDA at Marine Drive (in the rain, beneath their one umbrella). It was a beautiful sight.