I lie to get out of invitations to parties, weddings: Kiran Aman

Jewellery designer and publisher Kiran Aman on forgiveness, secrets, and being Queen Elizabeth I.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

It is attainable, but only for a few moments.

What is your greatest fear?

Loss of freedom.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

My ability to forgive people.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Deception and a sense of entitlement.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Disposable lighters.

What is your current state of mind?

Curious — I am answering this questionnaire as I head to Ajmer Sharif, a place of wonder and miracles.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Chastity.

On what occasion do you lie?

I lie to get out of invitations to parties and weddings. I am a homie in that respect.

Which living person do you most despise?

Don’t waste energy or time on such negative emotions.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Emotional intelligence and integrity.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

Grace.

When and where were you happiest?

When my sons were born.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Oversight, despite my insight.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

I am a survivor.

If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?

A secret that unravels with time.

What is your most treasured possession?

My sanity.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

The price people are willing to pay for power.

If you didn’t do your current job, what would you choose to do?

That is not an option I would ever offer myself.

Who is your hero of fiction?

I don’t idolise fictional characters.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Queen Elizabeth I of England.

Who are your heroes in real life?

Street kids, those who overcome adversity and people who risk their lives safeguarding their beliefs .

What is your greatest regret?

None. Things are meant to be.

What’s your favorite quote?

“Complete possession is proved only by giving. All you are unable to give possesses you.” Andre Gide

What kind of super powers would you like to have?

To be able to teleport.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what would you take with you?

My phone, Ipad, cigarettes and coffee and then I would enjoy my solitude!

If they made a movie on your life, who would you want to play your role?

Cate Blanchett.

What would the movie be called?

The Method to Her Madness.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, Sunday Magazine, March 13^th, 2011.