India is the land of fascinating cultures and traditions. One of the most beautiful countries in the world, it is also one of the most vibrant and innovative countries as well. While the country is absolutely wonderful, it can be a tough place to make money if you are not located in one of its major cities. Aspiring writers might find the idea of making a living from their creative talents challenging, but there are plenty of opportunities for Indians to do so. One of the most reliable ways to earn an honest living is by writing and translating books and blogs for a foreign audience. If you are a fan of Hemingway or you just want to try your hand at writing, you might want to consider this option.
The Most Profitable Markets
It is necessary to point out that there are many profitable markets for books and blogs in India. To start with, the country is home to a large number of English speaking people, so there is an abundant audience for English language content. Additionally, many Indians prefer to read Western stories and novels, which means there is plenty of demand for material in that language as well.
The most profitable market for a new writer or translator in India might be adult non-fiction or fiction. The country is home to a well-educated and affluent population, which means there is a ready audience for content relating to business, finance and similar topics. If you are a skilled writer, you could make a lot of money via online freelance writing platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.com, or through established literary presses like Macmillan or Penguin Random House if you are interested in pursuing an established literary career.
Translation
If you are skilled in another language, you can make a quick buck or two translating textbooks, blogs and other content into English. If you are looking for an easy way to make a quick buck, you could start a business translating between English and Hindi or other Indian languages. There is always demand for translators in a country that is home to a flourishing business sector and a growing middle class. If you can prove your ability, you could land yourself a lucrative contract. And what’s more, you get to practice your English while improving your language skills. Win-win!
Writing For Film And TV
If you have aspirations of becoming a professional author, you could consider pitching your ideas to film studios or television channels. Although this might not exactly be ‘how to make money as a writer’ per se, it could be a stepping stone towards establishing yourself as a professional author and storyteller. There are many well-known Indian TV channels that might be interested in your work, whether you are a seasoned professional or brand new to the industry. This could be a great way to gain experience and a following amongst an audience. Additionally, if you write for film and TV, you might be able to secure writing credits on multiplexes across the country. This could potentially lead to increased exposure and more lucrative opportunities.
Editing
If you are an editor, you could get paid to edit and refine other people’s work. If you are skilled enough, you could land yourself an editing job at a prominent media house or a freelance editing platform. There is always demand for well-edited material, especially amongst the Indian business community. If you are looking to make some quick cash, you could start your own editing business or take on freelance projects. Ensure that you quality control other peoples’ work, or you could end up contributing to the publishing industry’s overwhelming output of low-quality content.
Blogs & News Websites
Another great way to make money as a writer is to establish yourself as a authoritative voice in your chosen field. Whether you are an engaged citizen writing on important social issues, or a seasoned professional penning in-depth analysis on the state of the country’s economy, there is always a demand for well-written material amongst the busy population of India. If you can harness your talent for logical, well-crafted prose, you could make a decent stab at being the country’s next big celebrity blogger. If money was no object, how would you spend your day?