KARACHI, Dec 1: Popular Indian novelist and cultural icon Shobha De’ on Friday launched the debut novel of young writer Nadya A.R. titled Kolachi Dreams.

“Nadya writes with uncommon assurance for a debut novelist. Her guts and gore account of contemporary Pakistani society displays her sure-footedness on tough terrain,” De’ said while speaking as the chief guest at the well-attended launching ceremony held at Defence Avenue.

De’, author of 13 books – all bestsellers – and famous columnist of the Times of India has arrived in the metropolis mainly to launch the budding novelist’s work.

She said she was impressed by the diction and writing style of the author as it forced the reader to stick to the book till its climax.

“She knows her turf all right! Raw and searing, Nadya’s first book is a fast and furious read,” said De’. She praised the publishers for publishing young and promising writers and added that marvelous budding writers were waiting for such publishers.

“This book and many such works by the young writers will go to find readership worldwide.”

She lauded the writer for writing on the topics and themes which needed immense boldness and courage. “One has to have conviction and courage to do that.”

The Indian writer said Karachi and Mumbai were the twins separated at birth. She said she found no difference between her city Mumbai and Karachi and called for a greater people-to-people contact so that sharing of intellect and ideas could become more convenient.

“The borders are for politicians but there should be no borders for free minds,” she said, adding: “The time is not too far when we’ll be free to meet.”

The meeting was shared with message sent by Pakistani author Bapsy Sidhwa from the United States in which she praised the writer’s effort.

“Nadya tells a chilling story set in today’s Pakistan with flair. She is a promising new writer and knows how to engage the reader in this suspenseful work,” Sidhwa wrote.

Publisher Tayyaba Habib said her publishing house was mainly targeting young talent who tell splendid tales to their readers. She said her aim was to give the exposure to new writers.

Nadya A.R., the author, thanked the participants for attending the function and said writing on taboo-like topics was really a big task and it was not possible without the help of so many people.

Yawar Hilali conducted the proceedings and the author later signed copies of her book.