Vikram Seth, born 20 June 1952, is an Indian poet and novelist.

He has written several novels and poetry books.

He published his first volume of poetry, called Mappings, in 1980.

Later, he published novels and travelogues such as

(i) From Heaven Lake, published in 1983.

(ii) The Golden Gate, published in 1986.

(iii) A Suitable Boy, published in 1993.

He has won several awards such as Padma Shri, Sahitya Academy Award, Pravasi Bharatiya
Samman, WH Smith Literary Award and Crossword Book Award.

Qn 2; What inspired or influenced Vikram Seth:

Vikram Seth was educated at the all-boys' private boarding school , The Doon School in
Dehradun.

During his school days, he was the editor-in-chief of his school magazine, The Doon School
Weekly.

At Doon Scool, he was influenced by his teacher, Mr Gurdial Singh.

Mr Gurdial Singh taught him geography and guided Vikram in many ways.

He encouraged Vikram to be bold, taught him to think independently and write many articles and
stories.

Vikram was highly interested in drama, debate and music. He won several trophies in school in
these areas.

After completing school, Vikram Seth went to Tonbridge School, England, to complete his
higher studies in literature (A-levels).

Later he read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Corpus Christi College, Oxford.