Category: Interview

Exclusive Interview with Ranjit Samal, Author of ‘It’s not how, It’s why’

Ranjit is a young management Analyst specialized in the domain of operations & Supply chain, currently residing at Mumbai. His intention is to help millions to achieve their excellence. His enthusiasm and dedication simultaneously towards physics and spiritualism marks his roots to the city of temples, Bhubaneswar. Apart from his corporate assignments, Ranjit is not only enthusiastic enough to pen down the lessons learnt in life, but is also an empathetic mentor.
His debut self-published book “It’s not how, It’s why”, successfully attracted many young readers providing positive responses. This success encouraged many to collaborate & further was acquired by “Story Mirror” to reach out to many more youth across the nation. He plans to write a series of books, which revolves around self-discovery, pursuing ones passion and achieving ultimate dreams.
He often analyses the stories, incidents, and management practices that he come across in his daily life – that becomes the ingredients to his research works.

About Book: “It’s not how, It’s why”

“Be a reason for your success”
We all think to earn a lot of money, a large house to live, a luxury car, a lavish lifestyle, and to earn name and fame. So, as long as we are thinking anyway, why not think big?
With various upcoming theories, concepts and too many directions, today’s youths seems to chase “How to be successful” than realizing “Why to be successful”.
“It’s not how, It’s why” draws on simple personal experiences to stimulate and strengthen an individual’s desire to be successful and develop a greater sense of inner confidence and worth. This is a clear, down to earth book filled with 9 interesting reasons to tap the unseen potential of an individual who is longing to achieve prosperity in all aspects.

We will talk with Ranjit about his new book “It’s not how, It’s why”

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

Since my engineering I was very passionate about building a business, staring a startup, creating a new business model and identifying a revenue generation stream out of it, which is very close to my heart.
Staring from “personal selling of computer educational products” to a “Tech start up” and ending up with a youth leadership training platform was the journey during the Engineering days itself. During the business tour , interaction with different students and intense research , it was found that with various upcoming theories , concepts & too many directions , today’s youth seems to chase “How to be successful” than realizing “Why to be successful”.

The term WHY owned its significance in my mind gradually and ahead during my Management studies at Europe , I thought to pen down whatever I have learnt from my Entrepreneurial life and provide to today’s youth stating the fundamentals of life theories. This was appreciated by few of my friends in hostel, which forced me to approach publication houses. Then why not to come up with a book: It was a question?

With those feelings I converted fractions of my thoughts into a book in an intention to help youth’s to achieve their excellence. The script was self-published in to a book with only one thought that if at least 100 copies will be sold then I will assume that I have contributed something to the society. But surprisingly it got sold in multiple of 1000’s which encouraged me to go ahead. Further with Success, the title was acquired by Story Mirror for a national level distribution. Soon the title ran out of stock within 2 months and next edition is already out in the market too.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

The major challenge for me was to approach the publication house.  “I was very young to write such a book” – few executives from renowned publication house stated me. I was just a fresh management graduate and writing about success stories – It was not digestible by many of them. Most of them rejected me without understanding the plan. Convincing them was actually breaking through the thoughts. I still remember the sleepless nights and humdrum travel in the Mumbai locals to approach publication houses.
The next big challenge was to balance between the corporate hours & a space for me to write something valuable. Living your passion & managing your job for pay checks is always a big divide in mental peace.  But there’s no excuse, if I have to lead the crowd one day. My excuse shouldn’t dominate my “WHY”.

What is your life mantra?

Life is not about “How”, it’s purely about “Why”. Be very clear about what are you doing, and why are you doing it.  Rest will fall in its place automatically.

What is your writing process like?

My entire process starts with the end reader in my mind, a society in a whole. Which part of the problem am I trying to address, and what exactly the solution I’m trying to give to the millions of youths. I liked to write something original, something new.
Later defining the way these solutions to be presented in a form of concepts or stories. Gathering the details, making enough research and then plotting down the story line with the characters in build in it, becomes the crux.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

The examples in form of stories to support the concepts used in this script, makes the book different from the rest of the self-help books. Especially the real life examples included will make one feel special.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

An Author as a person need to be a source of inspiration & must have an intelligence to observe actively, possess a power of thinking wisely and must have a grudge to implement the lessons in personal life.

What are your plans for next book?

I am working on my next book, and this it would be a novel focusing current start up environment where the take away will be revolving around pursing one’s passion & self-discovery. The nation will have this master piece live by end of this year.

What advice do you have for young writers?

I would say that a young writer has to be very clear about why they want to write a book. It’s not that my neighbour or friend has written a book, so should i, rather one should feel deeply to express his/her views to the world , that would change the way people look at something. Your book should change the society by certain magnitude. That’s should be the objective.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

If you want to shine like a sun, then definitely you have to burn like it too.

June 20, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Dilip Shah, Author of ‘Shunya : The Zero’

Dilip is a software engineer and has worked with multiple organizations in areas of development, testing, business analytics, operations management, end to end delivery ownership and business development. He has many passion, including reading, writing, running, social service and spirituality. Shunya is his third (ad)venture in writing, His first two books were What Next? And 52. Shunya is not his story, but it is one that he and many can relate to.

Shunya (Book)

There are times when everyone questions themselves – Why? What? How? You must have also encountered such questions, probably umpteen times. However, most of the times these questions would have been either overshadowed by other thoughts or replaced by some stuff going on in life. Shunya is for you, if you would like to ponder over these questions and find answers. It will take you through an inner journey of peace, bliss and serenity. It will make you dive deep into a realm that is not only thought-provoking but worth implementing. It is not only a title or a character but a being that exists in your heart and soul.

Available on Amazon

We will talk with Dilip about his new book ‘Shunya : The Zero’.

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

Story: Shunya is a fiction story that depicts the journey of 2 protagonists. It is a journey in search of a purpose of life. One of the protagonists wants to discover the purpose and he is on a tour where he meets the other that has no particular purpose but is living his life peacefully. They meet and work towards a purpose but the one who already was on a search falls in a trap through the medium of a third person who has a vested interest. They get separated in their journeys and then meet again with the turnaround of circumstances. The story picks up at a medium pace with a lot of questions, then some exciting moments, a fast paced journey post that, a parallel story shaping up in the middle and a thrilling climax encapsulated in epilogue and pre-epilogue that adds to the exhilaration.

Idea: I have been quite experimental in life with regards to learning things related to life. I treat life as a bundle of moments that have to be lived fully – with utmost happiness, peace, not harming others and spirituality with logic embedded. I wanted to portray my learnings and experiences in the book but in an agnostic manner. This is where is pulled myself aside and started working on the concept.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

This is my third attempt in writing. The first 2 were published for a private circulation. They were more of a documentary. The content was liked by many but I thought it was more for a class. I wanted to write something classy but for masses. Hence, I wanted to portray the story with characters and an interesting fiction story that can captivate interest of the reader till the end. This was the first challenge. I invested a few months in thinking over it and I found a basic storyline. To script the same, I wanted to stay aloof submerged into shaping up the story in the words. Hence, I found a place where they lock the participants in a room for 7 days and 7 nights. Staying totally alone with zero external communication was a challenge but since I had a purpose, I got through.

Life as an author: I write what I like and mainly to convey message to myself. I feel glad if that message travels through the heart of the audience and adds value in their life. My writings are inclined towards adding values that can enrich life, generate happiness and peace and refrains from harming anyone in any form. I keep it simple and hence I don’t see it as a big challenge.

What is your life mantra?

Live peacefully and Leave peacefully. Happiness is within and not really dependent on anyone. If I am at peace with the world, the world has a lot of peace to offer me back. I like to treat everyone the way I like to be treated.

What is your writing process like?

My writing process is subtle, simple and straight. I attempt to excite the audience with a variety of questions that most of us have but are many a times not exactly able to discover. The answers to those may be individual or generic.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

Shunya is very close to my heart as it showcases basic human fundamentals in a logical manner. Many a times life goes in sweating the small stuff and the realization says that most of the stuff is life is too trivial to invest time when there is an abundance of peace, love and bliss around.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

Speak out (Write) her/his heart, Imbibe passion & enjoy every bit of it and Write without any notions.

What are your plans for next book?

The next book is already in making. The story is complete and the scripting is on its way. I haven’t set a timeline and the concept is currently to be kept under the wraps. Shall disclose as I come near to the publishing.

What advice do you have for young writers?

I, myself am a budding writer but the only thing I would like to say is – Celebrate what you write and write only when you enjoy doing it.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

“Happiness is a discovery; not an invention.”

June 9, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Nisha Gandhi Fofaria, Author of ‘Love Me, Forever’

Nisha Gandhi Fofaria is a professional content writer and an English teacher. She is passionate about writing. She has been writing poetry and stories for over a decade now. She has been teaching for more than a decade now. She is an MBA in Human Resources and Marketing, from Bangalore University. She is as much a Bangalorean as Mumbaikar. She adores these places, and enjoys her personal life with a loving husband and a naughty four year old.

About the Book : “Love Me, Forever”

In times where romance has gone amiss, and commitment has weakened, Love Me, Forever is a soulfully enriching love story where love and commitment are not only alive forever but also set an example as to how true love prevails when everything is gone. One of the most touching aspects of the book is how it brings various human emotions to the fore and connects a chord with the readers.

The love and the relationship shared by Samaira and Kevin are sure to connect with readers in its sheer simplicity and realistic ways. In our walk of life, we have sure encountered many like Samaira and Kevin. Love Me, Forever lends a soul to the concept of TIMELESS LOVE.

Available at Amazon

We will talk with Nisha about her new book “Love Me, Forever”.

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

Having been an avid reader, my imagination has always helped me think more and more about the things I read. In recent past, I read many stories, articles and write-ups about personal loss. As a subject, loss and heartbreak interest me. I decided I wanted to write about it. So, the idea of this book, “Love Me, Forever” – my debut novel, comes from various sources in general and not one in particular.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

The biggest challenge I have faced is, the emotional attachment that I ended up building with the characters of my own story. As I said, this is a story dealing with loss of a partner, a loved one, therefore I felt emotionally drained penning this. Also, I was writing this on a public forum where readers followed the story. So, I had a deadline to meet, on an everyday basis, because the readers followed the story religiously. Delays meant lost readers, which I did not want, at any cost.

In my life as an author, there are quite a few challenges. Apart from the fact that I juggle between various roles like that of a mother, teacher, professional content writer, there is always a challenge of performing, and performing well in every role. Some days, I am happy being the average mother and teacher and content writer, but then I sit back and introspect – Is that why I took it up in the first place?

I am also thoroughly critical of what I write, despite being mighty optimistic. That makes it all the more challenging, because you are not competing with the world, but yourself. However, the feedback from readers and followers reinstates that self-belief and the challenges are then resolved.

What is your life mantra?

“Live in the present”. I do have goals, ambitions and future plans. However, I am a person who does not delve much into over-thinking. The more we worry, the more we make it difficult for our own selves, trying to analyze situations which do not even exist. Therefore, I strongly believe in living for the day.

What is your writing process like?

To be honest, I do not follow a set process. I follow my gut, my instincts, and go with the flow of my thoughts. I sometimes write it down on paper, then edit it, put it in the soft format, edit it some more, and the final product is then ready. However, there are days when there is no paper or pen involved, and no editing happens, because it seems just fine. So, as I said, I am not really a process-oriented person, but rather spontaneous.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

“Love Me, Forever” has sold about 80 copies in 4 months. I have received excellent feedback for it from friends, family and readers. Some of them have been absolute non-readers but have completed the book in a few hours and in less than 2 days. That speaks volumes, and I feel elated. ‘
It is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress website. It has been rated 4 and 5 stars across these channels, and even on Goodreads.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

Being an avid reader is a must. A person who does not read, cannot do justice to writing.
Also, a writer has to be a very keen observer of his surroundings. I strongly feel, everything around us has a message to give to us. We need to have an eye for detail, and an ear for what the environment speaks to us, without words.

What are your plans for next book?

I have a few stories penned down. However, I haven’t given publishing a thought. I hope to go that path again, but I want “Love Me, Forever” to do well, first and break some records that I have set in my mind. As I mentioned earlier, I am in competition with myself, not anybody else. Therefore, I want to achieve a target that I have set for myself, before taking the plunge again.

What advice do you have for young writers?

There are a lot of writers in the market today. It is quite easy to get lost in the huddle. Try to hold your own, and be creative and original.
Always seek candid feedback. Do not vie for good reviews alone.
Accept feedback gracefully – positive and negative, and work on it. Don’t let the positive comments get to your head, and don’t let the negative comments break your confidence.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

“Every day might not be a good day, but there is some good in every day”.

June 9, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Bijal Talekar, Author of ‘The Dark Dekken’

Bijal Talekar is an author & have written two books so far. Due to her long illness, when she was caged by four walls, she decided to fly with her writings. In the year 2016 her novel, Alamana won the Your Story India competition. And in 2018 her first novel, The Dark Dekken got the debut Award of Literary Oscar.

Tell us about your books?

I have written two novels till now. And both of them belong to fiction or mythological fiction genres. By watching different – different kinds of TV shows and reading books, articles etc I came to the conclusion that I should also write this kind of my own stories which belong to our Indian mythology, youth and culture.
I tried to describe two kind of worlds in my novels. Both books are part of two different series. ‘The Dark Dekken’ will take you to the dark side of the life and Indian culture.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

My family members were really surprised when I told them that I’m writing a novel. My younger sisters; Kajal, Payal & my cousins became so excited about it. They are really Awesome sisters and very supportive to me.
As an Author I didn’t faced such kind of albatross in my journey. Except that I’m a patient of rheumatoid-arthritis and rheumatoid-fever. That’s why I couldn’t go outside for my research to get published. And therefore, it took much time to get published.
I’m really grateful to those people who guided me in the way I’m. Rafik Sheikh the Reporter in Divyabhaskar, Dr. Bheravi K. Joshi who is great author herself.

What is your life mantra?

Till now I learned in my life that be honest and confident about yourself. And you get that confident by learning and observing the things around you. So I think keeping yourself updated is the great way for progressive life.

What is your writing process like?

I recall that days from this question, when I was writing my first book; ‘The Dark Dekken’. At that time I was totally unaware about writing the book. At that time I was writing in my diary so I have to write the story very carefully. But, then I started writing the story in computer so it became very comfortable and convenient for me.
Whenever I start writing my new book I already keep my blueprint prepared for it including the beginning and climax of the story. And, then I let the story take it’s shape by writing scenes, dialogues and phenomenas in it and get in the flow. After completing the story I check it to do editing for eliminating all errors in it. And, give final shape and perfection to it.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

The most important of all an author or any person in his profession should have a learning positive attitude. An author should have her/his own thinking or point of view and she/he should have skills to express situations or conditions more than explaining it.

What are your plans for next book?

Currently I’m working on second book of ‘The seven shades of dark’s series’. Which will be the second part of ‘The Dark Dekken’. And also trying to getting published my books by traditional publishing house.

What advice do you have for young writers?

Normally I don’t like to give advice or telling things to do. But, I can just say that if you like to do something than you should take a step for fulfill your dream. And if you want to be an author then you should recognize your potential and start working for it. You should develop all required skills by working for it. After all, every Author & Writer has their own special touch in writing. And I believe it.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

My family is inspiration for me specially my Mom; Anita Talekar. By observing her hard work, conflicts of the life and her point of view of looking at life inspires me for doing something for her. And Whereby the question of quote the only Thing I remember which I read in my schooling days, ‘Koshis karnewalo ki kabhi har nahi hoti.’ It’s my all time favorite and unforgettable line from Dr. Haribansh Rai Bachhan’s amazing poem.

Buy The Dark Dakken

Buy Alamana

June 2, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Anurag Anand, Author of ‘To Hell and Back’

Anurag Anand is a columnist, bestselling author and corporate professional based in Gurugram, India. Presently employed with CocaCola India and South West Asia, heading the Franchise Capability Services vertical. Has worked across FMCG, Banking and Pharmaceutical sectors in Marketing and L&D roles covering several geographies including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Maldives, Philippines and Indonesia.

Two of his works the Legend of Amrapali and the The Quest for Nothing have made it to the final shortlist in the past editions of the Crossword Book Awards. His other books are Love on 3 Wheels, Where the Rainbow Ends, Birth of the Bastard Prince, of Tattoos and Taboos. and Reality Bites.

He is a contributing author to several renowned publications, including the Times of India and his column, ‘Corporate Whispers’, is a monthly feature in the Suburb Life magazine. The biggest reward for his writing, he believes, is hearing from his readers and interacting with them.

About the Book: To Hell and Back: Not all Tragedies are Orchestrated by Fate

A mindless road-rage incident leaves a young and promising entrepreneur dead. Is it an accident, or a cold-blooded murder, planned to absolute perfection? Namrata, a young professional, is enveloped by all the quintessential elements of life in the fast lane—a staling marriage, an extramarital affair and eyes full of dreams, until a fun evening turns into a chilling nightmare for her. Renu, a girl living in a world marred by regressive customs and dated practices, has resigned to the patriarchal ways of her world, until they begin to cast their malicious shadows on her unborn child. Their worlds, although separate, intersect each other in a single strike of tragedy that none could have imagined. It is then that this story begins and sends everyone’s life on a dizzy tailspin… Will they be able to get back to their safe and secure lives? To Hell and Back is a fast-paced thriller that will not only keep you on tenterhooks till the very end, but it shall also rattle your beliefs on how ‘crime-proof’ the world that you live in truly is.

Available on Amazon

We will talk with Anurag about his latest book ‘To Hell and Back’

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

A story often emerges from the happenings around us that one feels strongly about. To Hell and Back is inspired by the horrors and gut-wrenching incidents that the newspapers bring to us every morning. Most of us read these reports with a sense of detachment, as though these developments were from a world different from the one that we live in. We create a false sense of security around us and believe that we can never be at the receiving end of such atrocities – rapes, murders and road rage violence. However, it is often a single tragedy, one error of judgement that can erase the divide between the two worlds and propel our lives into a dizzy tailspin.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

The biggest challenge I faced while working on the manuscript of To Hell and Back was to ensure that the twists in the story and the characters remained relatable for my readers. There was a message I wanted to drive through the story: that our loved ones and we are far more vulnerable than we might want to believe. And this could be done only if the settings and characters resonated with my readers. The initial reviews of the book suggest that I have succeeded in achieving this, and I am glad for that.
In my life, I am a family man, a corporate professional and an author, and the one big struggle I face is to allocate my time judiciously between all three. And in today’s day and age, an author’s role is not limited to writing a book. He is expected to don a marketing hat and promote his work for several months following the book’s release. This can become gruelling and taxing for a simple word-peddler at times.

What is your life mantra?

I believe in living life by the day. Each day of life is a blessing, and it is only by understanding this that we can achieve true happiness. Often, we get dragged in the rut of chasing material aspirations and forget to enjoy the journey of life itself. And by the time we realize what we have been missing out on, it might just be a little too late.

What is your writing process like?

I begin by charting out the framework of the story, which helps me connect the broad twists and turns. The next step is to prepare the chapter plan, which flushes out the narrative flow and the principal characters. This is when the actual writing begins.
I would ideally like to follow some sort of a routine for my writing, but my work commitments prohibit me from doing so on a sustained basis. However, I try and ensure that I don’t allow a gap of more than a couple of days in my writing once I have started working on the story. This, I believe, can be counterproductive to the flow of the story.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

To Hell and Back has been garnering rave reviews from its readers already. Singer Shibani Kashyap, who was one of the guests at the book’s launch, said that the story is replete with characters that we are surrounded with in our real lives. Actor turned marketer, Mayoori Kango, termed the book as unputdownable. “The suspense was such that I couldn’t put it down until I had unravelled it,” she said. To Hell and Back recently made its debut on the Indian Writing Bestsellers list at WH Smith stores on number – 3.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

Keen observation and perseverance! While observation is essential for an author to script a compelling story, perseverance is needed for him to endure the tedious and lonely process of writing the story. The third essential quality, in today’s times, is an author’s ability to connect with his readers. Your work might be exemplary, but if you don’t have what it takes to draw readers’ interest towards it, it all ends up in vain.

What are your plans for next book?

I am working on a couple of story ideas for now, and I will be happy to share further details once I start working on any one of them.

What advice do you have for young writers?

Write from your heart and don’t worry about potential of publication and commercial success for your work. If you end up with a quality manuscript, the rest shall follow.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

“Time can be created. You can create time through your intent and determination.” – Anurag Anand

June 2, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Vedica Saxena, Author of ‘The Seed’

Vedica is a dreamer, a believer, a learner, a go-getter and most of all a mother who enjoys motherhood thoroughly. From being a technocrat, a soft skills trainer, a ramp model, an enthusiast, a blogger cum writer to now a published author. She love travelling, meeting people, socializing, watching interviews of famous personalities who create a positive impact on society.

She write broadly on anything and everything that effects us as humans, society or whatever is relevant to the moment, mostly on parenting, education, relationships, empowerment, feminism, health care, motherhood and more. Received certificate of appreciation from ICICI for Advantage Woman Awards for submitting an article of ‘women of courage’ under ‘Fund Your Own Worth’ campaign this month. She had been one among the top five finalists under the parent blogging category of the Orange Flower Digital Awards in 2017.

About ‘The Seed’

Vedica’s book emphasizes the necessity of living life and experiencing it through one’s beliefs. This is not a Bible or a guide to follow. It’s not even a list of instructions complied for you. It is to remind you to live life at your own terms.

Download

We will talk with Vedica about her book ‘The Seed’.

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

My book is not exactly a story but it’s a collection of experiences that I gain from people around me and ofcourse my own experiences. It talks about qualities of life that one needs to live from the right attitude, courage, boldness, to be able to belive in one’s dreams, about one’s on worth, living on one’s own terms. As the reader progresses reading further, he/she will notice shift from these qualities to parenting, motherhood, womanhood, empowerment, self worth and so much more. These are all basis and the core of our lives that we cannot ignore. My idea of the book broadly depends on only one thing and that is to be able to speak your mind and heart with courage. I believe in expressing my views and experiences and sharing it with all my readers.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

As an author, you’re constantly challenging yourself to do the best, to be the best version of your own self. So the greatest challenge that lies in front of me is time because my mind is constantly observing, grasping and wanting to express all at the same time. With my little toddler daughter at home, I cannot immediately rush to pen down my thoughts at that particular moment when I’m full of thoughts about a topic. So I write when she’s asleep. Other than this, time limits are what challenge me. When you have a deadline to post your work, it haunts me to make the best utilization of time in hand.

What is your life mantra?

I truly believe in myself and always stay positive. Optimism leads me towards everything I perceive and do in my life. I take my life as it comes and completely enjoy living. I believe that we have one life to live and one life to love, so we must all make sure to make the best out of the life that God has given us.

What is your writing process like?

I’m very intuitive and follow my instincts. I somehow feel that I cannot write fiction how much ever I want to and wish I could because my writings are also based on real experiences. I pick up instances form my own life, people around me. I’m a keen observer and receptor. I love to listen to people, engage in productive conversations because all this helps me to grow as a person and as a writer. So I don’t follow any process, it’s just my feelings expressed in the form of words. If you read my articles and stories, you’ll find me talking to you. So it’s like me having a conversation with my readers.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

Absolutely! Since it’s my first ever ebook, I would love all my readers to shower their love and share honest reviews. This book is titled ‘The Seed’ because I belive that our mind is a seed that generates thoughts and so the seed has to be seeded and watered right so we have the right thoughts growing. I strongly feel that our thoughts should be pure and should be our own and not influenced by anyone else. Many times people are scared of being judged and that is exactly the reason why we are scared to express our real self. So this book breaks all these barriers and shares the strength that one needs to speak their minds in the right manner.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

I love this part of the interview! First and the foremost – believe in what you’re writing. As long as you don’t believe in your words, you cannot do justice to your readers. I feel immensely proud and grateful that I’ve written more than 90 articles so far and thanks to my readers that not even one has ever given a negative feedback. But this doesn’t mean that I’m not open to receiving negative comments. What I want to say is that since I strongly believed in what I’m writing, readers were able to resonate with them. Second is to stay positive to negative comments as well because they help you grow. You cannot learn as long as you don’t commit a mistake so be prepared. Third quality and not the least would be to be an avid reader. As long as you don’t read, you cannot write. It’s very important to learn from other writers and authors too to evolve in the journey of writing.

What are your plans for next book?

Alas! I so wish I could answer this. But yes, I would definitely write a better one. I’m in the process of reading some books and reviewing them as well. So I’m sure I’ll have a lot to learn from these authors. One of them is a very good friend’s book and she’s a prolific writer. So I wish to write one soon but only after a great amount of reading and once I find some great inspiration from real life experience, I’ll get set go….

What advice do you have for young writers?

I feel I’m not in that place right now where I can give advice to young writers because I believe we all learn with each passing day and I’m still learning and shall continue to learn. But that one thing I tell myself and everyone around me is to be honest with yourself and your thoughts. For a writer, it’s all about thoughts and ideas, that’s your biggest asset and nobody can steal it away from you. So to be a good writer, you must be optimistic and honest.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

I definitely belive in ‘Live and let live.’

Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act.

And finally this is something that I tell myself “Noone can be you and that is your greatest power “.

Cheers! 🙂

June 2, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Anupama Dalmia, Author of ‘Aarohi’

Anupama Dalmia is a multiple award winning blogger and author whose work has been published in various coveted magazines and platforms like Women’s Era, Women’s Web, Juggernaut writing platform, Momspresso, eFiction India, Youth ki Awaaz, Readomania, SheThePeople TV etc. She has won numerous short story writing contests and has been featured by Women’s Web among the top woman bloggers of India. Her debut novella ‘Aarohi’ is a best-seller on Amazon and has been garnering rave reviews by readers as well as professional reviewers. The novella has also been featured among the top 3 Indian books to read on kindle by Goodreads. She conducts creative writing classes and workshops for kids and is a professional choreographer as well. She was featured as a part of ICICI Bank’s “Fund your own worth” initiative which was a campaign to bring forth stories of inspiring women from all over India. To know more about her and her work, you can visit her author website – http://anupamadalmia.com

About ‘Aarohi’

“Some friendships are meant to happen. On a regular day of her life, Anusha meets Aarohi in the Badminton Court of her apartment complex. There is an instant connection and over some heartfelt chats and the game of Badminton, they develop a beautiful bond of friendship soon. They meet everyday but after a week, Aarohi does not turn up at the court. What happened to Aarohi? What is in store for Anusha? Will Anusha be able to unearth the secrets which are waiting to surface or will the twists and turns lead her to a dead end?”

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

I usually get my ideas from what happens around me and that is how I got the idea of “Aarohi”, my debut novella, as well. Because suspense is a key ingredient of the book, talking much about it would give it away but I would say that through this story, I have attempted to make my readers ponder over some important questions that as a society we all must seek answers to in today’s times. It is a story about two friends and in my own life, I have been blessed with awesome friends which is what prompted me to write a story with friendship at its cornerstone.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

Well, the biggest challenge that I faced while writing this book was the deadline that was hovering over me. This story was actually written as a part of Amazon – Hindu Wordsworthy contest and I had just about two days to meet the deadline after I learned about the contest. The idea was in my head since long and I felt this was the perfect opportunity to bring it out to the world. However, I did not realize at that point that participating in this contest would actually make me an author as my focus then was only on completing the story on time. I penned almost the entire novella in just a day with my 3-year-old jumping on me half the time and without any support from an editor (in keeping with the contest guidelines). Once the book went live through Amazon KDP, it hit me that I am an author now. Hence, I always say that I am an “Author by chance” and the response that “Aarohi” has received till date has been very overwhelming.

In my life as an author, there are many challenges I face just like every author. Apart from the fact that I juggle between various roles like that of a mother, dance entrepreneur, mentor for kids, etc., what makes things more challenging is that more often than not I have a hard time believing in my capabilities as a writer. If not for my husband, I would have never started writing professionally. He was the one who motivated me to take the plunge and though I am not as hard on my writing as I used to be earlier, I am still quite critical of it and have many moments of self-doubt. So, whenever I feel that this self-doubt is getting in the way of my creativity, I read the wonderfully positive comments of readers on my blogs and stories, and that keeps me going.

What is your life mantra?

It is the age old adage – “Live life queen size”. I strongly believe in taking charge of my life because I want to be the one responsible for whatever happens in my life, good or bad. I also follow the policy of “Live and let live”. I think as a society, we all need to be inclusive and accepting and I try my best to stick to this mantra.

What is your writing process like?

Well, honestly I do not really have a process. I just follow my instincts and pen down my thoughts whenever I feel like doing it. I usually begin by getting it all out of my system and then I do a few rounds of editing till I am satisfied with the output.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

“Aarohi” is a 5k words novella and is a quick read available only as an e-book on kindle. It is a suspense drama with a message at the end which I hope reaches out to the readers. (So far, it has if I go by the reviews it has been garnering on Amazon and Goodreads). It has consistently been a part of the Amazon bestsellers chart in the “Short Stories” category.

“Aarohi” has also been listed at the number 3 spot on Goodreads list of Best Kindle Unlimited picks of 2018 for Indian readers.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

I do not think there is any formula for success but hard work, the ability to keenly observe the world around and being a voracious reader are the key qualities an author must possess according to me. I know some authors do not agree on the reading part but personally, I cannot even imagine writing without reading.

What are your plans for next book?

As I mentioned earlier, “Aarohi” happened by chance but I am sure my next novel will be a well-planned one which will go through the entire life-cycle of a book. I have a few ideas in mind and I hope I will soon start working on the manuscript. Currently, I am working on a cookery book which is being authored by my mother and myself. We have a well-established cookery website and this book is our next step to take things a notch higher in this space.

What advice do you have for young writers?

Please do not try to ape the style of a best-selling author. Write in your voice. Your natural style will be most effective and will connect the readers to your words.

Also, please be open to constructive criticism. I understand that a lot of effort goes into penning a story and it can be disheartening when someone dislikes it or criticizes it. But, unless you receive honest feedback, you cannot improve. While “Aarohi” has mostly been receiving great reviews everywhere, there are a couple of readers who haven’t liked the book as much and I am just glad that they took out time to read and review my work. I also connected online with a reader to understand what did not work for her and am very happy that she was forthright about her views. The rule is simple – if someone’s suggestion/analysis makes sense to you, incorporate it or keep it in mind for next time else thank the reader and move on gracefully.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world” – Mahatma Gandhi

May 28, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Nivedita Vedurla, Author of ‘Two Angels’

Nivedita Vedurla started her career as a technical support, moved to software testing and then became a Business Operations Manager at Fabcoders, Goa. She gave up her career as a techie to follow her passion for writing. Her first book ‘Two Angels’ received tremendous love and appreciation from all her readers. Her stories reflect her strong belief in love, faith and power of the mind. When she is not writing, she is playing with her toddler and enjoys tapping her foot to dance numbers.

About the Book ‘Two Angels’

Do you know the love story that the sea shares with the seashore? The mighty sea travels with his companions; boats, sailors and the sea creatures together visit many destinations. When he gets tired from all his travels, he comes to the seashore, and crashes down onto her, surrendering everything that he has. The seashore keeps her arms wide open when he reaches for her, to soothe his tired body and take away his pain. The moment he is relieved of his pain, he longs to go back, and the seashore lets him go. The love that Arun and Esha share is just like that between the sea and the seashore. Their relationship is short and leaves Arun devastated. Could he have found love only to lose it all to fate? Will he survive the loss? The answers take him back to Esha, and to the realization that love comes in many forms. This story is a journey to love through friendship, from loss to hope.

Available on Amazon

We will talk with Nivedita about her first book “Two Angels”.

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

The book Two Angels is about a simple message, life is not easy, you face hardships and you lose your beloved ones too, however when you make someone else smile the burden of pain gets less.
When I was in class 12, one of my favourite uncle met with a major accident and went in coma. While he was in coma, he didn’t respond to anything, but when his wife, my aunt called him once, he opened his eyes as if his heart responded to her call. He didn’t survive, but this has remained in my heart always as a symbol of true love. Once I was sitting idle, it occurred to me what if aunt would have passed away, what would have happened to uncle. Then I felt about writing more about this imaginary story. That’s how Two Angels happened.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

Seven years in software line I learned to excel you have to be fast and through with your project. However, writing a book was entirely different it needed patience and deep thoughts. The major challenge that I faced was taking out time to write when I had to look after my baby.

What is your life mantra?

It is your life and your passion. Don’t think others will help you out, help yourself.

What is your writing process like?

My writing process starts with idea generation, then gathering all details for the story background, outlining the story plot and the characters and then writing the story.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

It is not a usual love story where everything goes on well, but still people love it because it shows the reality of life.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

I haven’t achieved success yet, I am still trying to learn things that will make me a better writer. So I believe success will come once I become a better writer.

What are your plans for next book?

My novella, “Rhythm of love” is coming up in June and then a Novel should be out by August. Planning one more by December end.

What advice do you have for young writers?

There are a lot of advices that tell you how to become a better writer, but remember one thing unless you try you will never come to know how you write. When you write your first book or say first poetry don’t set expectation from others, write for your own heart. Let your heart choose the topic, let it form the words, without thinking how will people take it. Writing is a blessing of God and it should be felt from within. Off course you can modulate a bit for others, but the core of the writing should be from your heart.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

A winner never quits and a quitter never wins.

May 28, 2018
Exclusive Interview with Himanshu Rai, Author of ‘My Mute Girlfriend’

Himanshu is, telecom professional and storytelling is always his hobby. My Mute Girlfriend is his third novel based out from his college days. His way of writing is often called as visual writing; a reader can visualize his stories by his style of writing. He can be reached out at:

Blurb

“That day, I realized, I lost her forever, I lost her smile, I lost her friendship, I lost my comfort, I lost her voice but still somewhere in my heart I believed her to be my girlfriend, my mute girlfriend.”

Rohan a telecom professional posted in Meerut misses his girlfriend from his college days, who stopped interacting with him, without giving any reason. Although, she always stood by his side and showed immense love in her eyes but remained his mute girlfriend.

The book opens with an SMS from Vaidehi to Rohan, after five long years. But before he could reply her or call her, his mobile gets damaged, and he went off in his memories to narrate a story about how his girlfriend became his mute girlfriend after the first year of their engineering college.

The story moves for answers which kept her mute for five years, but worse was still waiting for him. Was he able to unmute her and hug her or he would move with the memories of his mute girlfriend, is a true romance story of My Mute girlfriend.

Available at Amazon

We will talk with Himanshu about his book “My Mute Girlfriend”.

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

Story of My Mute Girlfriend is from my college days. Most of the characters and locations are real. Last year I visited Jabalpur and felt nostalgic reaching to the place from where I completed my college. Story evolved from their.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

Frankly, I did not found any challenge writing this story, as it was from my own experience of life and events in which I was part in past. It took me some time to agree characters who’s real name and character is used in the story. It was pleasure for me to revisit those time which I had spent with my friends in Jabalpur.

What is your life mantra?

Love what you do. Do what you love and keep smiling.

What is your writing process like?

There is no fixed process. When story is in my head, I live with the characters. While I am writing, I can feel my characters all around me 24×7. Usually I prefer writing in night times.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

It’s a story based in time when there was no facebook or social media and no mobile. You can feel the love and pain of the generation of that time.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

Firstly, live your story. Secondly, understand your characters. Thirdly, know your marketing points.

What are your plans for next book?

I am in process of writing and would like to commit, it’s a most difficult story I have written till now. It’s a romantic story about a couple who were in relationship for nine long years. Then a twist comes which makes them apart for spaces, although they are still together and loved each other more then anything in this universe.

What advice do you have for young writers?

Write what you feel and do not miss to let your feelings out in words. Best writing will only come if true feelings are on paper.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

Whatever happened, will happen or happening, is for good. Just wait for result.

May 25, 2018
Exclusive Interview with T F Carthick, Author of ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’

T F Carthick is a Bangalore-based writer and blogger who has been blogging since 2008. His blog posts covering zany themes written in humorous style have won him prizes in over a dozen blogger contests. He is an avid reader of Children’s Fiction, Science-fiction and Fantasy. Enid Blyton, J K Rowling, Isaac Asimov, Frank Herbert, Neil Gaiman and Douglas Adams are some of his favorite authors. His paranormal thriller ‘Bellary’ was one of the three stories in the book Sirens Spell Danger, published in 2013. Six of his stories have featured in multi-author anthologies and literary magazines. He has written over 50 short stories, many of which can be read for free on his blog.

‘Carthick’s Unfairy tales’ is a retelling of seven of Grimm’s fairy tales from different perspectives bringing out some new facets in the tales as well as highlight themes of relevance in modern times. We will talk with Carthick about his book ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’

Available on Amazon

What is the story behind your book. Where did you get your idea for the book?

As a blogger, I used to write humorous stories for contests that were parody of popular works. I had written at least 5-6 of them based on fairy tales. Then one day it occurred to me why not compile them as a book. But when I started writing I realized stories needed greater depth to figure in a novel and there needs to be coherent theme across the stories in a book. So, I rewrote all of them with the theme of various kinds of unfairness. By telling stories from different points of view, I wanted to highlight unfairness in the stories as well as use the stories as a vehicle to talk about unfairness of life in general. That is how the book came to be.

Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life as an author?

I feel one of the biggest challenges for a writer is to know when he is ready to publish. Some people jump the gun and publish before the writing has matured enough. Others keep waiting till kingdom come and let the tide pass.
The other challenge is balancing writing with rest of life. Every writer has to hold on to his day job to earn his bread and there is family responsibilities. And there are also demands made by friends and relatives. Managing to hold on to one’s passion and finding time for it is another challenge.

What is your life mantra?

Strive for excellence in whatever I do.

What is your writing process like?

I can’t completely conceive of entire story beforehand. So, I have to write with the flow once and let the story take shape on its own. Once the contours are clear, I do a much more structure second draft. Then the next drafts are about adding further value, incorporating beta reader feedback, eliminating grammatical errors etc.

Anything special about your book that you want to share?

The book was an attempt to show a different story can be told surrounding the same set of events depending on the characters from whose view point you are seeing the events. Also, addition of events before and after a story can change the entire perspective.

According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?

An author or a person in any profession needs to continuously learn and hone his craft.
Author should focus on understanding what is unique that they bring in their writing and focus on developing and leveraging that in their writing.
Author should have ability to get into the shoes of their characters and feel the story before they pen it.

What are your plans for next book?

I am considering multiple ideas. One of them is a second volume of these unfairy tales. Others are full-fledged novel ideas. I am yet to decide which one to go with then.

What advice do you have for young writers?

I think the most important thing one should do before plunging into any field is to look deep into one’s soul and decide why one wants to do it. And once you find that core motivator, that should be your guide when faced with doubts and challenges.

Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.

Rudyard Kipling’s poem If. Let me quote just a single stanza here.

If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools:

May 20, 2018