Devika Das is an award-winning author and actor. She pursues her passion for writing and theatre in Hyderabad. Her title ‘The Mind Game’ is a national bestseller and is now available at bookstores in London. She has recently published a Hindi short story ‘Meghna’ with Blue Rose Publishers. She has won the National Award for short films Waterman and The Silent Voice directed by Anshul Sinha. She has been invited as a Speaker for many national literary festivals, TED Circles and also judged several literary competitions organized by schools and colleges. Currently, she is working as a Content Strategist for an IT Company in Hyderabad.
Book: The Mind Game
What is the story behind your book? Where did you get your idea for the book?
All of us have experienced situations involving emotional outbursts where we have hurt other people or our own SELF unknowingly. As long as our mind is under our control, everything else is. That’s what The Mind Game is all about.
In 2016, the newspapers carried articles related to increase in the suicide rates among youth. This gave me the push to research on the subject and try to understand the root cause of this issue. Through my research, I found out the highest rate of suicide is among 15-29 age group, which was worrisome.
Challenges you faced while writing this book and in your life?
Collecting authentic data insights and avoiding personal bias was challenging. Also, I wanted to maintain an objective tone throughout my book, which took time and a conscious effort. It was very overwhelming sometimes to write about difficult situations a person may have to deal with. I have fought my own battle and recollecting those incidents were troublesome.
What is your life mantra?
I have two quotes to live by.
- Life is given once. Live it to the fullest.
- You are your own source of happiness.
What is your writing process like?
If I feel passionate about the topic, I write down my thoughts. All my manuscripts are hand-written as I feel connected and the authenticity, consistency is maintained.
Anything special about your book that you want to share?
It is not an average self-help book that preaches life-enhancing methodologies based on complex science or long philosophical verses. The book’s genius lies in its simplicity. It offers quick, actionable and instantly applicable tips that will help readers lead a better life. Many people have been helped to think from a different perspective.
According to you, what are the three qualities an author must have to achieve success?
- Be real
- Excellent language skills
- The belief and confidence that your story must be told to the world.
What are your plans for the next book?
I am currently doing research on colour psychology which is the theme for my next book.
What advice do you have for young writers?
If the story is worth sharing, write it down. Don’t think about how many readers will your book get. Have a clear goal about why you want to write on the said topic.
Share a quote or line that has been your inspiration.
“God has a plan for my life”
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