ARTISTS USE LIES TO TELL THE TRUTH. YES, I CREATED A LIE. BUT BECAUSE YOU BELIEVED IT, YOU FOUND SOMETHING TRUE ABOUT YOURSELF.EVERYONE WANTS TO LIVE ON TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN BUT ALL THE HAPPINESS AND GROWTH OCCURS WHILE YOU'RE CLIMBING IT.
ALAN MOORE V FOR VENDETTA
A note from the Featured Author of our March Edition
The special issue of Storizen magazine is indeed SPECIAL as it has been relaunched amidst the colors of Holi - a festival that epitomizes vibrancy and fervor. The magazine starts with a quote from Victor Hugo, “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.” It so much echoes with the rise of Storizen from the shadows by a team of selfless, enthusiastic people like Saurabh and Pria.
The issue not only covers the festival of Holi in all its glory but also celebrates women writers by comprehensively covering Women Writer’s Festival 2018. Additionally, the magazine beautifully captured the journey of some of the noted authors and their works.
It was an honor to be featured in the special edition of Storizen magazine. It was a pleasure to interact with Pria, a bubbly team member from Storizen who not only has a pleasant demeanor but also has deep insight into writing and the publishing world.
I wish STORIZEN magazine all the success in future. - Madhu Vajpayee
by Pria
Reviewed by Sana Shekh
Reviewed by Himani Gupta BOOK REVIEW - Lost in Love by Arvind Parashar
BOOK REVIEW - Undelivered Letters by J. Alchem
Editor's Note
Savouring the taste of Literature
“Literature is a textually transmitted disease, normally contracted in childhood.”
- Jane Yolen
It is true that a vivid imagination can awaken even the sleepiest of the minds. It’s still disappointing that there is a lot to be done to awaken the minds and to know the authors. The struggle of a writer in his or her journey is oftentimes kept out of the light.
Storizen is aimed at glorifying the authors, writers, and bloggers. We bridge the gap and are dedicated to bringing the writers together on a platform like never before.
We strive to keep the light on this unique art shine brighter every time a writer pens a word on paper.
Having said the above, we are glad to feature the
bestselling writer- politician Tuhin Sinha, Spokesperson for BJP - Mumbai in this edition. Ranked among the most prolific Indian writers experimenting with new genres, who has authored 10 books and his latest release is “When the Chief fell in Love”. Our editorPria gets you the excerpts from the interview.
This issue also highlights book reviews on the ‘Undelivered Letters by J. Alchem’ and ‘Lost in love by Arvind Parashar’.
To keep the literary senses alive, there is a treat for you all as our contributing writers and bloggers, Saru Singhal, Mamta Joshi,
Sharma, and Shivi Pandey who brings to life from their craft of writing in this issue.
We are much obliged and request you for your constant support and feedback which motivates us to push ourselves and do something unique every time.
Let your love and blessings pour in continuously and do keep writing to us.
Happy Reading! Saurabh Chawla
Email - editor@storizen.com
Manushreya
Let's Enjoy the Moment
“You’ll seldom experience regret for anything that you’ve done. It is what you haven’t done that will torment you. The message, therefore, is clear. DO IT! Develop an appreciation the present moment. Seize every second of your life and savor it. Value the present moments. Using them up in any selfdefeating ways means you’ve lost them forever.” –
Wayne Dyer
How often do you stop and take a look at the beauty of the world around you? It’s pretty often that our minds get stuck dwelling on things that happened in the past, or worrying about the future.
by Pria
Either that or we get wrapped up in the daily tasks of our busy lives and don’t really stop to appreciate the joy that exists in every day. So this article is just a little reminder to live in the present moment, be mindful, and appreciate the little things.
LIVE IN THE MOMENT AND ENJOY IT. The real question is how?
SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS
Recently I have started being outside (as in adoring nature’s beauty), and trust me I have loved the vibes and I believe that spending time outdoors is one of the best tips for increasing mindfulness. There’s so much to observe and appreciate outside that you don’t really notice until you start paying attention. Take a second to sit outside in your backyard or a park. Take in the sound of the birds chirping, the sound of the wind, and the warmth of the sun when it hits you,the sight of the flowers and plants around you, etc. Nature is beautiful, and we tend to take its beauty for granted.
So take a moment to go outside, breath in some fresh air, and be mindful of the world’s natural beauty.
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT
Instead of downing your coffee in the morning as a habit because you feel you “need” it to stay awake and get through the day’s work, enjoy your coffee slowly. Pay attention to how it tastes, and how it smells (this is the best part about coffee anyway in my opinion!) Same goes for when you eat. Taste the flavors of your food instead of always being in a rush and don’t just gobble it down.
FORGIVENESS
Forgiveness involves letting go of the past, and all of the emotions that go with those past events. Whether it’s forgiving someone else, or forgiving yourself, letting go of those toxic feelings is key to being able to truly enjoy the present moment. Because how can you enjoy the present when you’re chained to the past?
MEDITATION - YOGA
If there’s any one thing that can bring you to focus on, and soak in the present moment, it’s meditation. During meditation, you focus on your breath, and your senses, and become more aware of your thoughts.
The whole point really is to live in the moment, and clear your mind. Clear your mind of any toxic thoughts that occupy too much space in your head all day.
SMILE
Because smiling brings nothing but good vibes, gratitude, and happiness
LOVE YOUR WORK
If you work full time, you’re spending almost 40 hours of precious time a week working.
That’s a lot of time. Who wants to do that? You’re basically robbing yourself of the ability to really enjoy life at that point. The goal is to live for every day, and not to live for the weekend. When you get caught up living for the weekend, you’re only enjoying two of the seven days a week. That’s not even half of the week. So do yourself a favor and take action on your feelings about your job if you just can’t stand it anymore. Either try to address the problem you’re experiencing, find a new job, or create your own doing something you love. Whatever will make you happy!
CHALLENGE YOUR SENSES
What we are today comes from our thoughts of yesterday, and our present thoughts build our life or tomorrow. Enjoy everything that comes your way; whether it be sounds, smells, sights, feelings, etc.
UNDERTAKE SOLE PROJECT
We all learn one day that multi-tasking is not our friend. Try going through your to-do list one thing at a time and see how much more productive you feel. Trust me. Anyway, trying to all the things at once is what gets us caught up in “busy work” and causing our head to spin (me with a migraine). If there’s anything that takes away
from enjoying the moment, it’s that spinning head feeling. So do yourself a favor, slow down, and focus on one thing at a time.
Remember then - there is only one time that is important – NOW! It is the most important time because it is the only time we have any power - Leo Tolstoy
TUHIN SINHA BEST SELLING AUTHOR
MONARCH OF SURPRISES - TUHIN SINHA
India's Maverick Author - Politician who juggles both careers with elan
One of India’s most charming politician, gifted orator, and prolific author shares the magic for writing through his mind and manner. Tuhin Sinha comes across as pie in the sky.
Tuhin A. Sinha is a best-selling author, columnist and a scriptwriter. His books, That Thing Called Love, The Captain (formerly 22 Yards), Of Love and Politics and The Edge of Desire breaking new ground is widely acclaimed and read among his 10 released titles. Tuhin is also a scriptwriter of several popular TV shows.
Apart from his fiction novels and scripts, Tuhin is a keen political observer. His columns on Indian politics appear regularly In India’s leading dailies. Tuhin also has a regular blog on ibnlive.com. When he finds time from all of these, you might catch him on a news channel representing BJP on most national issues.
Tell us about the latest book you’ve published?
The book, “When the Chief Fell in Love: Kashmiriyat,
Jamhooryiat, Insaniyat, Hindustaniyat” is my latest novel. The political thriller discusses important emotions of the people from a particular arena embedded interestingly in a fiction story that involves high-level politicians and army officers. The book follows the story of Vihaan and Zaira,
who fall in love with each other, which is a problem because Vihaan is the defense minister of the country while Zaira is the daughter of a pro-Pakistan Separatist leader. The narrative begins in the year 1991, with one futuristic chapter set in 2030. “The way lovers interact when they are 20 years old when they are 32, and then 45-46, vary. The emotions are so different, as they are at different stages of life. Writing that bit was challenging. In terms of the sheer trajectory involving emotions, geography, and the number of years covered, it was one
hell of a task, and as usual, the media makes a sensational story “What’s cooking with the Defence Minister and the separatist’s Leader’s daughter?”
This is where, there’s a twist and a turn, thumping our hearts as Vihaan, the Defence Minister faces the irony and the newspapers hunted with an eagle eye for a prey. Interesting! And, the storyline moves on with a page turner for which, you got to read the book.”
“What’s cooking with the Defence Minister and the separatist’s Leader’s daughter?”
What was the idea behind adding “Hindustaniyat” to the slogan of ex-PM Atal Bihari VajpayeeKashmiriyat, Jamhooryiat, Insaniyat?
Each of those words –Kashmiriyat (a distinctive cultural identity), Jamhooriyat( democracy) and Insaniyat (humaneness) is crucial in finding a solution to the Kashmir issue represents the solution. But the most critical component is Hindustaniyat. The first three words can only exist with the tenets of Indian nationhood and culture.
It may sound uphill and even somewhat impractical, but that is the only foolproof solution. I don’t want to spell it out here. Read the book for a better idea. What inspired you to write on such a sensitive issue and that too a love story?
Well, as a writer and now a politician too, I can’t shy away from my social responsibilities however artistically I portray the new perspective. I can’t shirk serious issues. Even my past books dwelt upon sensitive issues. The Edge of Desire was created around the issue of women’s safety and emancipation in India. 22 Yards exposed the underbelly of contemporary international cricket. For research, I spoke to a lot of people either in Kashmir or those who have followed the developments in Kashmir closely over the past three decades. Besides, I must have scanned at least 100 articles on the history of Kashmir, especially of the last 300-400 years. I derive my inspiration from unsuspecting incidents. Some which I read in papers and others which I see happening around me. Pria adds a line from
The point is, as a society we tend to be restrictive. I say,” One should believe in what one says and don’t think about controversies.”
his novel – “No amount of research or official meetings could give one a glimpse of the truth on the ground”. While reading the book, you come across various interesting lines. Only a person who did his research well can come up with such professional line. Bringing in light the “new perspectives” has been your choice. Don’t you fear controversies?
A writer’s job is to “throw up new perspectives”. Ideas need to be seen, even if you don’t agree with them. Why do we shy away from controversies?
The point is, as a society we tend to be restrictive. I say,” One should believe in what one says and don’t think about controversies.”
Do you always wish to become a writer?
Writing for me happened serendipitously. It wasn’t something I had planned. But after my first book “That Thing Called Love” which is against the backdrop of Mumbai monsoons and
explores relationships in the contemporary urban set up of the city, in the phase of changing moralities. The book went on to become a runaway success. Every writer has to figure out what works best -- and often has to select and discard different tools before they find the one that fits. I made a conscious effort to raise the bar with every consecutive book, exploring newer themes and genres.
"I believe unpredictable writings makes ones work more breathtaking."
Did you ever wish to change a situation or a character, once the book was published?
I have grown with every book of mine. And this growth or improvement would be visible to anybody who has read all my books.
So while I would want to re-visit certain characters or situations I have created in the past, on second thoughts I am also very possessive of them and would much rather let them be the way they are.
With so many books to your credit which one is closer to your heart?
My latest one, “When the Chief Fell in Love” is my favorite, though “The Edge of Desire” (followed the story of a rape survivor, who goes on to become the top leader in the country.) is also very close to my heart. But what makes “When the Chief Fell in Love” very special is the sheer trajectory in terms of years that the story covers -- geography, political landscape, and emotions. The story starts in 1990 in Delhi, travels to Mexico, Mumbai, Kashmir, Delhi again and then finally to Kashmir. The
relationship between the protagonists goes through its twists and turns and the political landscape at its own vagaries. The blend of romance and politics has been most seamless in this book, compared to my other political thrillers and the book hints towards a fresh solution to the Kashmir issue, even if it’s unconventional and controversial.
Some writers describe themselves as planners, while others plunge right into the writing. Would you consider yourself a planner or a plunger?
I am a bit of both. Just that most of my planning happens in my brain. But it’s so
clear that once I start writing, more often than not, I am stuck to that planning and have successfully pulled off the book without significant changes.
Would you like to give any message for the readers of Storizen Magazine?
I like to use the word ‘well-wishers’. Just want to thank them wholeheartedly. Without their support, this journey would not have been possible. I derive my strength from them.
Storizen wishes Tuhin a great success and would like to add that amidst the political scenariosthat are frustrating and fights between those with
opposing views are off-the-wall (at times). But sometimes as shown in novels — sparring sides can develop into an opposite-attract scenario.
Featuring romances can develop across political aisles a perfect read when one reminds self that the world of politics doesn’t always create divisions! Love conquers all.
We leave you with the original poem used in the book which makes the female protagonist, Zaira Bhat's character more alluring and gives a poetic feel to the whole narrative.
I look into the mirror And I see a face which looks so dear Eyes which are moist, Yet so clear
Lips though they wear a smile Yet not real
A voice from within Which I always hear It gives me a pain which is sweet Yet I fear
A void which is always there Hope someday it is filled with love and care. (Penned by :Bhavna Berry)
ABOUT PRIA - Young mesmerizing freelance blogger, social enthusiast, an economics graduate from Jharkhand University with Master in Child Psychology. She is hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic, an avid caffeine lover, and a maniacal animal lover too.
She has been a part of numerous anthologies, articles, and write-ups for newspapers and magazines which are multi-linguistic. She has also written screenplays for YouTube series.
The Zen Moment
by Mamta Joshi
On a long weekend, the moment I decide that I am going to stay late and get up late, it never happens. The villain that is responsible for this obsessive discipline is often referred to as the internal body clock, the circadian rhythm, that tells our bodies when to sleep, rise, eat often becoming a wet blanket in presentday life where heavy party scene goes around during big fat weddings,
big fat festivals or just fat get-togethers with friends and loved ones seeking leisure hours after XXL working hours.
It is definitely not a treat to wake up late in the afternoon, to have breakfast at lunchtime and laze till dinner which could stretch late into midnight. The parents may not be around to chide anymore but the bladder and the bowels take disciplinary action on any freaky
behavior and penalize gutsy recklessness for days. Lexis changes with lifestyle pressures that had made one abuse oneself with junk food and alcohol.
Cholesterol with LDL, HDL dominates every breath. The acid reflux keeps the deep-fried snacks and tangy chutneys out of reach. The ubiquitous bottle gourd (lauki), which went
After messing up body, mind and soul, one learns to kowtow before the circadian rhythm as one moves forward on the learning curve of life.
unnoticed, becomes as vital as oxygen. For various ailments kitchen- shelf magic is rediscovered with the miraculous powers of fenugreek (methi), oregano(ajwain), asafoetida( heeng),fennel(saunf) and turmeric(haldi).One is forever exchanging notes about dieticians, physiotherapists, personal fitness trainers, meditation gurus, naturopaths and pranic healers.
After messing up body, mind, and soul, one learns to kowtow before the circadian rhythm as one moves forward on the learning curve of life.
The sagacious Aristotle was of the view that essence of life is in learning that there is a lot of unlearning to be done. It is well to be up before daybreak, for such habits contributing to health, wealth, and wisdom.
Steve Pavlina, a popular motivator, and self-help life coach are of the view that morning hours fill life with beauty and energize the body like nothing else. He elaborates, “In my early 20s, I rarely went to bed before midnight, and I’d almost always sleep in late. I usually didn’t start hitting my stride each day
until late afternoon. But after a while, I couldn’t ignore the high correlation between success and rise early, even in my own life. On those rare occasions where I did get up early, I noticed that my productivity was almost always higher, not just in the morning but all throughout the day. And I also noticed a significant feeling of well-being.”
The proactive goalachiever that Steve was, he set out to become a habitual early riser. He promptly set up his alarm clock for 5 am. Once he got used
On those rare occasions where I did get up early, I noticed that my productivity was almost always higher, not just in the morning but all throughout the day. And I also noticed a significant feeling of wellbeing.
to that extra time in the morning, it did a lot to reduce stress. He felt no need to rush around and that set up his mood for the rest of the day. Due to demanding pets and school going kids, I have by force of habit, become a morning person. I feel happy when I get up early, come out into the garden to soak in the panoramic view that dawn unfolds before me, as the sky turns golden streaked with crimson red and grey hues while the epiphany of hundreds
of birds pays twittering tribute to life. The cool breeze does nothing to ruffle the silence, in fact, transforms the ordinary day into an extraordinary one by its sheer magic. It is the hour for my inner silence, the ‘me time’ that belongs only to myself. That hour of delicious solitude is enough to keep me charged for the rest of the day other, without getting cranky. Morningness can ring in positivity and who else but Jalaluddin Rumi, a 13th-century poet, can put it in a better way.
“The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you Don’t go back to sleep You must ask for what you really want Don’t go back to sleep”
So avoid hitting that snooze button of the alarm. Let it ring out loud and early. We all have one glorious life to live. Rise, move your butt out of bed and shine!
A thousand suns
Light up my mornings
Birds carousel Sprinkle epiphanies
Blossoms cast a heady spell I fall in love
Over and over again.
Mamta Joshi did her Masters in History from Allahabad University.Her poems, reflective essays, prose pieces and short stories have appeared in national dailies and international e-magazines.A free spirit, she works with equal ease in Hindi and English.
Photo by: Mamta Joshi
The Healing Playlist
B Y S A R U S I N G H A L
Last Thursday I was so stressed I thought my veins would explode. I headed straight away to my closet, picked my jacket, headphones from the bedside table, plugged them into my phone, and I went to the balcony. I played an old playlist, hummed along, and 20 minutes later I was recharged.
The combination of music and walk works every single time for me. I submit to the tunes and lyrics - shut off the world - and somehow the problems disappear.
It's not only about the stress. There are days I have no energy. I get up and as I work from home, I feel confined.
There is no gentle nudge to push me in the right direction. Even the deadlines aren't motivation enough to complete the pending assignment. In those baffling moments, I swipe left on my laptop. I play my favorite tracks in the background and voila, I feel energized.
Same is the case when I'm sick, angry, nervous, or sadmusic always comes to my rescue. So last weekend I googled to check - whether music is a therapy? Does it actually help the sick, depressed, and angry?
Numerous articles on the internet vouched by scientific research say - oh yes, it does!
Music helps us relax, it pumps up our adrenaline on the treadmill, it also suppresses the fishmarket type of noise in an overcrowded restaurant. We all have witnessed that. There is no denying fact to it. But more than music, the choice of music is important. Can you run on 'Tum to thehre pardesi?' No, right? For that, we need a peppy number that sets the body in motion. A Yo Yo Honey Singh's song would probably do that.
The choice is the underlying factor in determining how effective music is for us. I love Coke Studio but my husband doesn't. I can walk for hours on Adele's song but for running I prefer Bollywood item numbers. Ghazals make me nostalgic. Sonu Nigam's voice makes me emotional. And all of the above brings me joy. For this very reason, I spend time in creating playlists on my phone, iPad and on Youtube. Sorry, invest. I invest time in an activity that works better than prescribed medicines and therapy.
Because when I want to use music as a therapy, I need the right songs at my fingertips. I name my playlists on mood and music type, but never as an album. To relieve stress, I know a selection of Coke Studio songs would do wonders. For long drives, I need a combination of soulful, romantic, and slow numbers.
For every problemstress, sadness, anxiety, sickness, loneliness - we need a different type of music, just like we need different medicines for different ailments.
Next time if you are at loss and unable to put words
to your feelingslisten to music. Don't watch a music video. Just listen. And when you are feeling better, invest your time in creating your favorite playlists.
Choose your favorite songs and sort them according to your feelings and moods. Then turn on any of these playlists as and when you need an escape. I'm sure, it would take half of your anxiety away.
Our choice of music tells a lot about our personality too.
Our favorite songs are the ones with which we have an emotional connectmostly a happy memory is attached to it.
The biggest factthe music we listen as teenagers and as college students remains our favorite lifelong. Whatever be your song of choicewhatever makes you happy - use that song to help you through tough times.
Saru Singhal is a content writer and blogger. With many awards and contest wins under her belt, she is an Associate Company Secretary who enjoys writing as much as she loves her 9 to 5 job.
What are 'WE'?
by Manushreya Sharma
It was my English lecture that our teacher asked about our lives two years from now. Some said that they see themselves in elite colleges of Delhi University while others talked about settling in Canada, Australia, New Zealand etc. While I was totally confused with fitting in neither
of the boxes. It was then that she concluded that thanks to your parents for all your dreams can be fulfilled by them.
This was the moment which made me think about who we are actually.
Are we not simply a product of our parent's bank balance? What is the difference between a hapless druggie guy loitering in those streets of slum and the coolest squad of my class.
The answer to my botheration was simple.
It is our parent's power and money that has been guiding us and our fate.
Let God forbid, I too could have been a girl working as a domestic help had I been born to poor parents instead of studying at a reputed school and ironically trying to explore my pseudo-self.
Do we have about individual entity apart from all those things bestowed upon me by my wealthy parents? The answer is unfortunately no. Despite it, we are still happy with who we are.
This chain of producing individuals with imprints of past is declining the free
will and our freedom to make our own path on our own.
The millennials are busy with their Instagram goals governed by the peer and trends while life goals are determined by the parent's bank balance.
It is time to question who we are despite everything we have. Discovering one's true self is the most difficult task. But once it is done wisely, Life becomes so much easy and cheerful. After all, to know thyself is the beginning of wisdom. Let the journey of selfdiscovery begins and prove out to be exhilarating and rewarding.
Manushreya Sharma is a teen poet, blogger, freelance writer and content manager who is studying in Bal Bharati Public School, Rohini, New Delhi. She bleeds ink and create magical webs by her words.
My PATH TO GET PUBLISHED
RAVINDRA SINGH THAKUR
My PATH TO GET PUBLISHED
This journey has been started two years back then, On 12th June 2015, from the land of Indore to Bina(U.P). I went through one of the hardest and worst situations in my life. because in the end, I had lost finest and greatest thing of my life... However, later I couldn't recognize what I was feeling for others. I had bunked all classes in the 7th semester. "If any faculty ask me about lectures", My eyes turned into red, and my tears were creeping on my cheeks.
I tried to hide that pain by flirting, making more and quantity of friends but those things were not working out for me. I tried to pen down so many write-ups every day. It didn't satisfy my soul. There have been times when my hand was stopped and tears were pouring on mobile screen and computer keyboard. Real Friends of mine asked me about My "writing and Other things".My lips couldn't have the courage to utter a single word at that moment. And then, Finally, I had completed my 7th Semester
with 70%. And first time in my life someone told me, about my percentage and said, "Chote, it's not enough for making a good result". Several times that thing strokes my mind with lots of memories. I was not able to recognize, from where and how to write this "Novel".....
1 year passed as it is. I had thought about the plot of the story, and however, I realized "jaha sab mile the vahi se shuruaat karni chahiye". I didn't count my sleepless nights,
My PATH TO GET PUBLISHED
"innumerable times my parents asked me, "did you cried at last night?" It's scary what a smile can hide despite knowing, I'm a simple person, "Who hides a thousand feelings behind the happiest smile".
My mother used to think "Ravin will become mad for his best friend". Every day I talked about him to my parents. I started to attend Parties and making new friends. I remember, whenever "I missed him" that moment, how I reacted because On several mornings; I had tears notching on my pillow.
At the time of project only my fingers typed innumerable words in notes, my friends always say, me "Bhai project par dhayan de le". I gave a fake look at that time and said: "yes, I'm working on the project". "Placement" was going on in the campus. But, my Destiny wanted to reside in the destination of "Writer's world of Books" so, I got a rejection from countless companies and multitudinous kicked so many offer letter's. Faculties asked me, "About my placement at that time"-
My lips were zip locked and they said,"we know you will do different things and you know which thing is best for you".they completed their sentence by this words.
Finally! I had completed my 8th semester, with 83.33 percentage, everyone was shocked because I was a part of all other activities. except "Academics." On That same day, Pankaj Bhaiya told me "chote Kar dikhaya tune". And something unlike rational rolling in upon my head.and I wanted to complete one promise, "Beta uska Naam jab Bhi
My PATH TO GET PUBLISHED
lo to muskrate hue lo" this lines and words are responsible for this Novel. "Promises stays alive for lifelong but humans doesn't". I wanted to fabricate his name immortal by my words and bring him into existence. I did this thing in "Annual Fest" of my college but, my heart exclaimed!, to do greatest for him. Countless times, I had tried to wrote continually 3 to 4 hours. In the end, I realized, I missed few things. then, I erased it over again.I had read numerous amount of books.
And then it took a heavenly turning track. "I've written in around 16 Anthologies" one ebook which got published. I don't know how I write and however, Novel is not for writing and other things.
"THIS IS THE MY PROMISE OF MINE, TO INSPIRE OTHER'S,"
A ray of hope for Parents and Passion of mine. In the END, I will relive him, by my words because," HE IS THE FINEST EXAMPLE OF FRIENDSHIP FOR THE ENTIRE WORLD".
Numerous people criticized me; for my write-ups, yet, I didn't stop my ink to quirls on paper.
In this journey, many people came into my life and many left me all alone. I want to thank all those who stood by my side by being a pillar of my strength.
Thanks a lot, Engineer Piyush Kumar Pandey, for Reliving in our life all over again by "TWIRLS and TWIST: FRIENDSHIP V/S LOVE".On 11th October 2017.
My PATH TO GET PUBLISHED
This isn't a Novel it's an integral part of mine. A soul, A best friend's memories would be cherished throughout my whole life. This story has different types of emotions, best friend's love, couples:
how their life turned, friends goals and inspiration to inspire other's. A story about how college friends can go to their best friend’s to complete their passionate dreams.
That's how I became "Author".Er Ravindra Singh Thakur. Currently, I'm working on my another Novel. All I want to say to all my reader's:
"Dreaming in "LIFE" is about risking everything for a "DREAM" which no one can see but YOU".
(As told by the author)
Storizen Magazine: Home to your Stories
Photo: Dr. Ketaki Patwardhan
Anamika
by Dr. Ketaki Patwardhan
It was a pretty normal day. The October heat had begun showing its effects already. It was not even 9 in the morning and I could feel heat emanating from the ground. I walked down the stairs and on the footpath to go to the cafe five blocks away for my Sunday morning brunch. Yes, every Sunday morning I have brunch here, so that I can sleep the entire day away in my lazy bachelors pad. I had just taken a seat when I saw her.
The first thing I noticed about her, were her dark brown expressive eyes. They changed their size as she animatedly spoke to her friends. They laughed as she narrated some funny incident,
her fair hands swaying around, making different gestures. And then it happened. For just a moment, a fraction of a second, our eyes met. That fraction of moment seemed like an eternity to me. I was transfixed. Just as quickly, she had her eyes back to her friends sitting around her. But to me, everything was occurring in slow motion, just like they show in movies. I could see her in vivacious colours. Everything around her was black and white, and blurred, just like in movies. I couldn't hear her. But I couldn't hear anything at all. A soothing music hummed deep somewhere in the back of my mind as I
continued to watch her.
"What are you staring at mister?" I was jolted back to reality at the harsh voice. I suddenly came out of my trance. The beautiful girl was no longer laughing. She just sat there, giving me an angry stare. One of her friends stood in front of me, challenging me to answer her question. All patrons in the restaurant stared at us.
"I...I am sorry;” I muttered an apology.
"You better be," She said and stormed away. I looked back at her. She was still staring at me, angrily. I quickly looked away.
Embarrassed, I immersed myself in my club sandwich and Latte, and dashed home after quickly paying the bill.At home, I couldn't sleep a wink. The girl had destroyed my peace of mind. She had destroyed my entire Sunday. Other Sunday's were fully dedicated to my precious sleep. But not this one. Not anymore.
Finally, at 2 pm, I decided enough was enough. I had to find her.
I got up and changed into my jeans and a tee. The heat had intensified now. But I was determined. I grabbed my cap and shades and went downstairs.
I had no idea where to look for her. And there
was no possibility that she would still be sitting there. But still, I walked to the restaurant.I peeped inside through the glass wall. The restaurant was now buzzing with activity. But she was nowhere.
The guard looked at me skeptically. Even though we hadn't spoken to each other ever, we knew each other, the same way you know the guy sitting in the shop in front of your house for the last ten years, or the guy who sits by the window in your bus - the bus you take daily to reach office. I approached him. To my great relief, he gave me a smile. It was that kind of smile, the one you give to a person you are not sure about.
"What are you looking for Sir?" he asked, and at that moment I knew that he knew what I was looking for. I stayed silent, wondering how to put it. He rescued me from formulating any sentence.
"That morning girl?" he asked. So he too had witnessed the drama. I mentally face-palmed myself. He was waiting. I nodded at him.
"She took bus no. 14 from this stop," he said, pointing at the bus stop opposite the road.
"Thanks mate," I said and hurried towards the
bus stop. I had no idea where bus no 14 stopped. And out of all stops, at what stop she had gotten down. Though it was a pretty normal day, for me, everything about this day was turning out to be abnormal. I decided to follow my instincts. Which, if at all were there anywhere, weren't telling me anything at the moment. So I waited at the stop for bus no. 14.
As I looked around, my eyes caught the guard looking at me. I smiled at him sheepishly. He knew my little secret. That I was stalking an unknown girl. He didn't return my smile though. He went about his work, holding the door open for incoming and outgoing patrons.
Thankfully, the bus arrived and saved me any further humiliation. I got in through the rear door. It was almost empty.No one wanted to roam around the city in the scorching heat on a Sunday afternoon.
Except crazy, smitten guys like me.
I sat on a seat, wondering what destination I would tell the conductor. Just then a flicker of movement caught my eye. I got up to take a good look. There it was. The scarf. The white scarf with sequinned border that she had loosely tied her hair with. It fluttered in the wind as the bus gathered speed.
"Where to?" the conductor asked,
totally disinterested.
"Whose scarf is that?" I asked him, pointing at the scarf.He looked at me with the expressions as if I had asked him to get naked.
"Whose scarf is that?" I repeated the question, giving him an expression that said, come on, it's a simple question dude.
"How am I supposed to know?" he replied when he realised I was serious.
"Must be some lady," he added as an afterthought.
Great.
I decided to still try my luck.
"Where did that lady get off?" I asked.
Now he looked at me like I was getting naked.But I kept staring at him defiantly. His look said, are you serious??
But I kept looking him straight in the eyes, to let him know I was damn serious. "Parel," he said, probably to get me off his back.
I was astonished he remembered. But of course, how could anyone not remember such a mesmerising face!
"Thank you," I replied, meaning it.
But he remained disinterested.
"Ticket till?" he asked.
"Parel," I said confidently.He looked at me pointedly. Now he too knew my little secret. His eye brows were raised by just half a millimeter. But he said nothing and handed me the ticket.
I went ahead and grabbed the scarf. It was stuck in a nail that had come out from one of the seats.
I turned around to see if the conductor had seen me. He had. He was staring at me.
But then he averted his gaze and went about his business. With the only other guy on our bus.
For a moment I thought he too was staring at me. Did he too know my little secret? That I was stalking an unknown girl?
With the scarf clutched tightly in my hand, I got down at Parel. The sun was shining harshly and I could feel beads of sweat forming on my forehead. I wiped my forehead with the scarf and as I did so, I smelled the perfume. Her perfume. Wow! It was tantalising to all my senses. It was the smell of crushed roses. I kept on taking deep breaths so that I could
fill my entire lungs and eventually my entire being with her smell.
A man walking on the footpath bumped into me and brought me out of my reverie. And back to reality. Here I was, on a hot Sunday afternoon, standing on the footpath in an unknown area, smelling the scarf of a mysterious girl whom I was stalking for no reason. I was certainly going crazy.Before people around me could notice my odd behaviour, I began walking towards one side with purpose and stride, though I was totally clueless what I would do next. The footpath led to a road which had small shops on both sides. Shops that sold kurti, earrings, necklaces, purses...
and scarves. I stopped in my tracks when I saw an exact replica of the scarf that I was now clutching to my chest. He looked at me pointedly. Now he too knew my little secret. His eye brows were raised by just half a millimeter. But he said nothing and handed me the ticket.
I went ahead and grabbed the scarf. It was stuck in a nail that had come out from one of the seats.
I turned around to see if the conductor had seen me. He had. He was staring at me. But then he averted his gaze and went about his business. With the only other guy on our bus.
For a moment I thought
he too was staring at me. Did he too know my little secret? That I was stalking an unknown girl?
With the scarf clutched tightly in my hand, I got down at Parel. The sun was shining harshly and I could feel beads of sweat forming on my forehead. I wiped my forehead with the scarf and as I did so, I smelled the perfume. Her perfume. Wow! It was tantalising to all my senses. It was the smell of crushed roses. I kept on taking deep breaths so that I could fill my entire lungs and eventually my entire being with her smell.
A man walking on the footpath bumped into me and brought me out
of my reverie. And back to reality. Here I was, on a hot Sunday afternoon, standing on the footpath in an unknown area, smelling the scarf of a mysterious girl whom I was stalking for no reason. I was certainly going crazy.
Before people around me could notice my odd behavior, I began walking towards one side with purpose and stride, though I was totally clueless what I would do next. The footpath led to a road which had small shops on both sides. Shops that sold kurti, earrings, necklaces, purses...and scarves. I stopped in my tracks when I saw an exact replica of the scarf that I was now clutching to my chest.
Without formulating any plan of what I was going to do or say, I entered the shop, and began examining the scarf.
"250 rs sir," a bored sales girl informed me. She probably hadn't had her lunch yet. Her face screamed hypoglycaemia.
"Has anyone recently bought a similar scarf as this?"
"Eh?"
She was confused.
"Has anyone recently bought a scarf just like this one?" I repeated my question, dangling the scarf in her face.
She gave me 'the look' after which she was
probably going to kick me out.
But she turned and went inside. A moment later she was back with another girl who probably just had lunch.
"Yes sir?" She asked with a plastic sweet smile.
"Has anyone recently bought a same scarf as this?"I repeated again.
"Yes, a few days back a girl bought it," she said, now eyeing me skeptically, "Why do you ask sir?"
"Actually she's my girl friend and she left her scarf at my place,” I blurted out, wondering how such a ridiculous thing could leave my
mouth. “I need to return it, and hence wanted her address,” I added. The girls exchanged 'the look'.
"Your girl friend?" She asked. The way she asked offended me as it sounded like I was the last person on the earth who could have a girl friend. Though she was probably right! "Yes," I replied with fake valor.
"Then you don't know where she stays?" She asked, one eyebrow raised.
Oh shit! Now I would have to lie more.
"Her parents dont know about us. She visits my place, but I have never been to hers, though I am sure its somewhere nearby,” I said, aware how ridiculously fake it sounded. I don't know if my lie convinced the girl, but she exchanged a glance with the hypoglycaemic girl, gave me a smile and went to bring her receipt book. She searched for what felt like eternity and just as I was about to lose hope, she showed me the receipt for the scarf.
The bill was in the name of Anamika, and a mobile number was scribbled on it.
Anamika! How apt!
"Sorry sir, there's no address on it,” she said, closing the receipt book.
I had to think fast. I needed the phone number. But there was no way she was going to believe I didn't have the mobile number of my girl friend.
"Wait a minute. Show me the receipt again,” I said, a plan quickly formulating in my brain. Never had my brain worked so fast. She opened the book again. I quickly saw the mobile number and stamped it to memory.
"Anamika. No, you have the wrong girl. Her name is Raavi".
Really? Raavi? The female character from the daily soap my mom watches at home?
"Oh, then it must be some other shop," the girl said, still eyeing me suspiciously, as if she didn't believe a single word I had said. The hypoglycaemic girl too was staring at me.
I left the shop as fast as I could. I quickly retrieved my mobile from my pocket and punched the numbers I had been reciting in my head. Had my memory been so sharp and brain been so active and creative when I was in school, I would probably have been a rocket scientist by now.
I dialed the number without thinking.
To be continued....
Dr.Ketaki Patwardhan Nirkhi is an anesthetist by profession and writer by passion. She is the proud author of three novels, ‘Those enchanted four and half years’, a love story in the backdrop of the medical college, and ‘The missing connection and ‘Hello stranger’, both psychological suspense thrillers. She has multiple short stories to her credit, five of which have found their way into various paperback anthologies. She loves to write a mystery, suspense and twist in the tale kind of stories that keep readers biting their nails till the end.
She utilizes her medical know-how into weaving intriguing scenarios with the perfect recipes for a thriller.
She writes a blog titled wordcharmerblog when she’s not putting her patients to sleep. She stays in Thane with her anesthetist husband and cute little daughter.
Reviewed by Sana Shekh
Lost in love' by Arvind Parashar is a heart- wrenching romance thriller which will swipe you off your feet. This is a sequel to the bestselling book ' Messed up! But all for love ' and will definitely touch your hearts like the first one in the series
The story begins with Neil, who is completely devastated as he has lost his only reason for livingGauri. The matter worsens and Gauri's disappearance becomes a headline As the cops try to join the dots,
Lost in Love by Arvind Parashar
Gauri's best friend, Itishri, and Neil's Ex, Arya, comes into the picture. Is Gauri really abducted? Is there someone behind all this?
Will Neil and Gauri be able to live up to the promise of together forever?
Will Neil be found or lost in love forever?
Grab this engaging tale to know what destiny holds for Neil and Gauri
The cover of the book is catchy enough for any reader to pick the book immediately. The title is totally apt and intriguing. It goes perfectly with the theme of the book. The blurb of the book is crisp and enticing
The plot of the book is very unique I totally loved the twists and turns in the book. The suspense element was the heart of the book and it kept me hooked till the end. The author has very beautifully described the teenage phase, where we are naive and tend to take impulsive actions
which can even destroy our lives.
The characters are beautifully crafted and are given the right space and emotion The language is lucid and the occasional use of Hindi added spice to the book. The climax is something very unexpected and it intact my belief in happy endings.
It was a pleasure reading and meeting my favorite coupleNeil and Gauri And how can I not mention the beautiful pieces of poetry which took my heart away? A perfect amalgamation of friendship, love, jealousy, crime, and thriller. A ‘must have’ book on your shelf
Sana Shekh is a young and dynamic writer who is currently pursuing MASTERS OF CYBER LAW AND INFORMATION SECURITY from NLIU, Bhopal Being born and brought up in Bhopal, she has always been close to nature With an anthology to her credit, she likes to review books in her leisure time As a person who enjoys reading, writing and interacting with people, she is passionate about writing about different emotions and aspects of life Currently handling her own page of quotes and poems on Facebook and Instagram (@heartbeats i ink ),
Undelivered Letters by J.Alchem
Reviewed by Himani Gupta
It is an ebook which is a very small read which will be completed in 1 hour. You can read on your Kindle as well. The storyline is in the form of letters which are very beautifully written. The title and story are perfectly matched with each other. The narration is so flawless that one can finish the complete book while traveling in a short span of time. Each letter will put a smile on your face. The postman character played by the main lead whose name is Aron is so generous that despite he forgot to deliver the letters
20 years ago tried to deliver them after 20 years that was the best part of his character which as a reader I really enjoyed. The author had beautifully portrayed each emotion of all the characters. I had tears in my eyes when I read the story of a girl who hasn’t seen her father when she was born and received a letter 20 years later. It was a very beautiful story and the author had clubbed all the emotions in it. The cover of the book is so beautiful that it will attract the readers to grab the book. In the era of WhatsApp and Facebook letters really make you love and closeness.
The author had reminded you of the old era where letters were the mode of sending feelings to the loved ones. I remember my parents shared their love to each through letters. This is one of the best feelings so far and Author had brilliantly portrayed through this book. Well done Author and keep writing. I recommend everyone to read this book.
About the book
Aron, a postman with Marioson Postal Service, found an abandoned bag. It had a few letters that were supposed to be delivered - 20 years ago. He had a choice, either to deliver them now or abandon them forever.He chooses the former.
What were these letters all about? Who wrote them? Who are the recipients? Do these letters still carry a value, after 20 years?
Book Review
About the Author
J. Alchem is an Award Winning and a critically acclaimed author. He is the winner of Amazon Pen to Publish Award, The Best Author of the Year Award (2017-2018), StoryMirror, and Superhero Storyteller Award. The author has written in several magazines and newspapers and received appreciation for the same. His notable works include three well-received, uniquethemed titles; A Road Not Traveled, The Highway Man, and latest Bestselling Award Winning title, Undelivered Letters.
J. Alchem is actively involved in writing quotes and short writeups which are often seen being circulated among the youth on popular Social networking sites. Recently, the author has signed a short movie contract on his award-winning short story.
In her own words: I am Himani Gupta, By profession, I am an HR Manager working in Bengaluru. Reading is my hobby which led me to write reviews for my readers I have read and reviewed numerous books so far Rohit is my favorite writer as far as writing is concerned and I wait for his books to read. If you wish to get your book reviewed, do feel free to contact me.
Less Obvious
by Shivi Pandey
Less obvious
In the so-called life
Diabolical yet always a surprise
I noticed the less obvious
From the unavoidable charm
I regarded the elegant soul
Because I noticed the less obvious
From the crooked ideas of yours I bent for the blissful smile
As I noticed the less obvious
From the dejection that you were I always found the craving for acceptance for it
As I noticed the less obvious
From all the warnings of the world
My heart with all its might pounded for your warmth
As I noticed the less obvious
From the acceptance of your dejection
To the rejection of my acceptance
I never anticipated the less obvious
SHIVI PANDEY was born in Patna on and grew up in West Bengal. He completed his BTech from KIIT University and is currently working in Cognizant. He is a jovial, carefree and fun loving person. He is a voracious reader and his hunger for reading led him to write his solo book “LOVE STORY? SERIOUSLY! Ever since then his pen has never stopped.
I Shall
by Shashwati Patil
Yes, I shall wait For you
Like I always did.
I shall wait For you until The hope in me withers.
I shall wait For you until The rose dries And it's thorns prick my soul
I shall wait For you until The moon slides Under the sheet of skies forever
I shall wait For you until The Art in me fades away
I shall wait For you until poetry Runs in your veins
I shall wait
For you until you either beautify me Or reason me
In your words to the world.
I shall wait for you.
Shashwati Patil , hails from Hubli, Karnataka. She is currently working in bangalore. She loves to spend time with herself a lot, the journey with pen, ink and diary has been wonderful to her so far, and likes to indulge herself in entrepreneurship, She is also a huge nature lover, and big fat Foodie
She is an avid reader, blogger and love collecting books, and wishes to own a library at her home She feels content when she scribbles her thoughts. She started writing to vent her feelings and emotions, and they flew through poems.
Now she is in love with the world of poetry, and literature. She says, poetry and literature are something, somewhere I can Drown and still not choke.
