Brooklyn’s Upasna Barath: A Voice for Change and Creativity

Upasna Barath, a writer based in Bedford-Stuyvesant, is making waves in Brooklyn’s vibrant literary scene. Originally from Chicago, Barath’s work is characterized by its blend of humor and fearless storytelling. In 2025, she gained significant attention through her collaboration with Hinge on the “No Ordinary Love” campaign, which showcased intimate love stories throughout the subway system. This innovative approach not only elevated her profile but also ignited a creative transformation in her life.

Barath reflects on her sudden rise in the literary community, stating, “I started getting invited to a lot of parties, and I was conflating the work with the social aspect, which is two different things. I would argue that you could be an incredible writer without ever leaving your house.” Her approach to gathering material is as eclectic as her surroundings; she finds inspiration everywhere, from underground raves to casual walks around the neighborhood.

With the success of her debut novella, Comedic Timing, Barath is now deep into her second book, which she describes as deeply rooted in family history. “I would say a lot of it’s inspired from my mom’s life more than mine. I actually interviewed a lot of people in order to write this book,” she shares. This commitment to storytelling reflects her desire to explore the narratives that shape her identity and the world around her.

Artistic Challenges in New York

Barath is candid about the economic realities of being an artist in New York. While she considers herself a “not-so-starving artist,” a position aided by the New York Housing Lottery, she critiques the system’s inconsistencies. She points to successful models in other countries, such as Ireland, where housing units are specifically reserved for artists. This has led her to question the effectiveness of local programs. “Why is the affordable housing lottery not affordable for low-income New Yorkers?” she asks, highlighting the need for more equitable solutions.

As Brooklyn continues to be a melting pot of ambition and resilience, Barath’s journey exemplifies the creative spirit of the borough. Her ability to carve out her own space while addressing broader social issues resonates deeply with her audience.

A Conversation with Upasna Barath

In an interview with BK Reader, Barath shared her thoughts on what it truly means to be a Brooklynite. “I think what makes a Brooklynite is someone who’s heavily invested in their community,” she explains. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships with local residents, from neighbors to small business owners, rather than viewing them as interchangeable.

When asked about her favorite neighborhood, Barath expressed her love for Greenpoint, particularly its Polish restaurants. “It’s so interesting to me that you have the techie white people living in the same neighborhood as the Orthodox and Polish people. These are people with completely different philosophies and views on how to live life, and they’re all in the same space,” she notes.

Barath also shares insights into Brooklyn’s nightlife, mentioning her appreciation for the venue Nowadays. “I appreciate the ‘no phones on the dance floor, no talking’ policy. Every time you walk in, you do an orientation where they’re like, ‘everyone be respectful,’” she explains. This unique approach enhances the experience, encouraging attendees to immerse themselves in the moment.

The conversation also touched on pressing issues facing Brooklyn residents. Barath highlighted concerns regarding algorithmic pricing in grocery stores, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. “Five people in the same household ordering from Instacart can have varying prices for the same order based on that algorithmic pricing,” she elaborates. Barath supports initiatives like the ones proposed by local leaders, such as Zohran Mamdani, aimed at creating city-run grocery stores to ensure affordable access to essential goods.

As Upasna Barath continues to navigate her artistic journey, she remains committed to amplifying the voices of those often overlooked in the narrative of Brooklyn. Her work not only entertains but also prompts critical dialogue about community, identity, and the challenges of creating art in an ever-evolving city.