Dr. Shashi Tharoor
The Empress of Mystery
THE NEW YEAR STANDS BEFORE US, LIKE A CHAPTER IN A BOOK, WAITING TO BE WRITTEN. WE CAN HELP WRITE THAT STORY BY SETTING GOALS.
Melody Beattie
WHAT'S INSIDE
Fortune SoldierThe epic story of ROBERT CLIVE and the dawn of the British Empire in India - Alex
A whimsical examination of the human condition, filled with nuance and wit
- Vikram Paralkar
Left from the Nameless ShopStories from the life you have left behind. One that you hope to return to.
- Adithi Rao
STORIZEN
WHAT'S INSIDE
Abhrekha Jain Sahlot
STORIZEN
are Open for 2019
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STORIZEN
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Battle
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Another fresh new year is here another year to live! to banish worry, doubt, and fear, to love and laugh and give! With this saying by William Arthur Ward, we are all set to say goodbye to 2018 and welcome New Year 2019 into our lives.
We are excited to feature The Empress of Mystery - Manjiri Prabhu as she tells about Why she writes What she Writes. She released her 13th book, The Voice of the Runes which was launched by noted author and MP Dr. Shashi Tharoor on 17th December in the capital city, Delhi. Well-known author, art critic and cultural theorist Dr. Alka Pande presided over the event.
This issue covers the biggest Literature Festival of the country, ‘The TimesLitFest 2018’ held on 1st and 2nd December 2018 in Delhi.
We have covered three hot new releases this month in association with HarperCollins and Hachette India viz. Fortune Soldier by Alex Rutherford, Afflictions by Vikram Paralkar and Left from the Nameless Shop by Adithi Rao.
In the December issue, we bring you an exclusive interview with Usha Narayanan, AuthorKartikeya and His Battle with the Soul Stealer and the book review of Gita-The Battle of the World by Sonal Patel.
As the year is coming to an end, our contributors share their resolutions, past experiences and memories with us and how Storizen has helped them in reaching their goals.
This month we also set a milestone of reaching 5000+ Likes on Facebook. We thank our readers, contributors and team members in making this possible. Continue showering your love and support so that we can bring you more exciting stories and inform you about your favorite authors!
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2019!
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Happy Reading!
Saurabh Chawla, Editor in Chief editor@storizen.com
Why I Write What I Write? Manjiri Prabhu
A Storizen Exclusive Feature
Manjiri Prabhu is a Novelist and the Director of the Pune International Literature Festival. Starting from a TV Producer and directing more than 200 infotainment programs, she is all set to release her 13th book, 'Voice of the Runes' in December
by Pria
It was really early on in life when I discovered, that I had a direct connection with the Universe’s creative energy. It was a unique relationship with the Universe, which revealed to me in a swoop that I had a job to do – I had to write. I was a writer at age seven and I have been a writer all my life. But here is a simple answer to the question – Why do I write?
Because I can’t help writing! And why do I write what I write? Because the mystery genre has found me and stayed with me and sought its expression through me. And I enjoy being the chosen one to represent this genre and discover newer ways to explore and experiment with the mystery, suspense and thriller format.
Lives are at stake and Re has 36 hours. Would he be able to decipher the clues in time? Who was the mastermind behind the murders and kidnapping?
And finally, would Re be able to protect the 350 year-old Lund University? Only the ancient runestones can tell.And only the magical runes can divine the future.
I write because I am selfabsorbed, even selfobsessed, a universal entity in connect with the Universe. Because I am selfish and in deep love with what my imagination conspires, and love the spring of ‘surprise’ and because I connect more with fiction than reality. Fiction is my world, my characters are my companions and my ordained role is to narrate a story that would entertain, engross, engage and educate – in that specific order. “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” This quote by Benjamin Franklin features prominently on my website and has dominated my world of creation.
13 books till date, hopefully more to come…..what am I really proud of in this journey? I write because I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone. I do not wish to prove that I am a woman in a man’s world. I do not wish to prove that I am better than another man or another woman or for that matter another writer. I don’t wish to prove anything.
And that is why I write what I write - Pure creative energy that stems from a prosperous source. Still. Non-turbulent. Undisturbed and happy. Stories that uncoil from an unadulterated love of the art, adventures and plots that my inventive energy attracts. I write because I think like a human being, not like a woman but like a person
Manjiri is an intrepid writer because she has ventured into places Indian writers haven't ventured to, both geographically and into the realm of international thriller writing. She is about the only one in India to do this and has ventured out in an intrepid fashion.
- Dr. Shashi Tharoor
without gender. Being labeled as ‘Desi Agatha Christie’ and then compared to Dan Brown, is proof of this state of my mind and my writing.
I write not to deliberately break any glass ceilings, because I have encountered none in my life and believe in none. And yet I have broken moulds, opened paths to others by being the first Indian woman to write mysteries, suspense and destination thrillers in main stream Indian fiction. My characters are strong, fierce, wise and empowered and in the journey of the book, become even more soInspiring and aspirational characters which lead you through life in the most amazing manner possible. I write because imagination is my focal point where ideas germinate, flourish and become reality. I have given myself full freedom and permission to
write what I wish, without the pressure of clichéd expectations and societal stereotypes, the pressure of womanhood and the sense of responsibility frequently and inevitably thrust on women writers, without being answerable to mental conditioning of decades, or entrapped into pleasing the dictates of sexist inhibitions.
….Perhaps I have risked an emotional bonding with some readers by not adhering to the ready template of women’s fiction. My fiction stems from my need to be me, carefree and adventurous. And in that sense, I have remained true to myself and my creative energy.
Whether it is my destination mystery/thriller series with Re Parkar, or the AstroDetective series with Sonia Samarth, both trend-setters and unique concepts in India or the dystopian Super-Dome Chronicles – another less-
explored genre in India – I have always been different in the study of subjects. Perhaps it has more to do with what I wish to read and cannot find out there or simply that I am ahead of my times. Whatever it is, the bottom line is that I write what pleases me and what I please. Fortunately for me, I have found support from many Publishers who were kind enough to help me find space in the world of publishing.
I realized early on that I am trying to play God, not a Saint. Trying to be a Creator, not a Reformer. I look at change as that which moves from one emotion to another emotion, from one moment to another moment like a slow delicious stirring of thought.
An unconscious shedding of set notions, like the erosion of the soil or the melting of metal in heat.
And I think mystery fiction has the capacity to do this, in its ability to encompass myriad issues within
Fortunately for me, I have found support from many Publishers who were kind enough to help me find space in the world of publishing.
its genre. In the guise of a good plot, can hide the streams of political ideologies, sociopsychological upheavals, relationship and societal issues and you-name-it, thus initiating rather unobtrusively and intelligently, a pleasant excitement in the reader. I find this rather challenging, fascinating and inspiring – the subtle art of deception stirring a sense of contentment.
Mystery fiction to me is also Motivational Fiction. Where else would you learn that no matter what life throws at you – conflict, hassles, ups and downs – in the end, all is well? It redefines courage and encourages optimism and independent thinking. It denotes the evil in beings and uplifts compassion, love and what is good in humans.
Mystery fiction tickles interest, perks the reader’s brain, inspires him or her to prod on against adversities, and offers hope as an eternal serving.
However, at no point in this writing journey, do I wish to take full credit for what I have written. Artists I believe are mere channels for the creative energy to flow through them. What you create is a gift from the Muse, from the Universe and you are an instrument in the process. Albeit an important instrument. But neither can you separate the creator from the created. Thank God for that!
When I am at the age to look back and question my choices, I hope that I can respond with candour and honesty, that the work I put out in the world, was the true expression of my beliefs and acts. That it was a genuine effort to fulfill the role assigned to me. That I did justice to the task undertaken – the task to entertain, engross, engage and educate through the art of telling stories that
When the stream skips by and the peaks seem shy, When twilight drapes the golden landscapes, The words and the verse light a path to the Universe…
That’s when I take flight, That is why I write….
stimulated imagination and thought and created magic, memories and motivation. And in the process allowed me the pleasure of being entertained! I hope that when I look back, I feel a complete sense of accomplishment and pride.
(As told to Pria) (Visit www.storizen.com for the full coverage!)
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.
@mystery_pria
@Loudest_Mystery pria@storizen.com
BOOK LAUNCH
‘Voice of The Runes’, the 13th novel of Pune-based acclaimed author and Founder/Director of Pune International Literary Festival, Dr. Manjiri Prabhu, was launched in New Delhi by noted author and MP Dr. Shashi Tharoor on 17th December 2018. Well-known author, art critic and cultural theorist Dr. Alka Pande, presided over the event, who was later in conversation with Dr. Prabhu and Dr. Tharoor. The event took place in the prestigious India International Centre, New Delhi.
‘Voice of The Runes’ is a Mystery-Thriller story taking
place in Lund city of Sweden, unfolding in 36 hours. The uniqueness of the novel is that, though being a book by an Indian writer, it has no Indian characters and the authenticity of the characters, the events, the plot and the milieu is as good as written by an insider.
Speaking about Dr. Prabhu’s books and writing style, Dr. Tharoor said, “Manjiri is an intrepid writer because she has ventured into places Indian writers haven’t ventured to, both geographically and into the realm of international thriller writing. She is about
VOICE OF THE RUNES BY MANJIRI PRABHU
Dr. Shashi Tharoor Launched the book by Manjiri Prabhu, 'Voice of the Runes on 17th December in Delhi
the only one in India to do this and has ventured out in an intrepid fashion. Manjiri's books will help preserve the appeal of the mystery and thriller medium to lots of readers. Basically what Manjiri is trying to do is write extensively, at a pace, concoct an interesting plot and put it together in a way that will capture the imagination of the reader”.
Commenting about the female voice of writer, Dr. Tharoor further said, “Prabhu writes about the emotions of the female character, their motivations and drive with an insight that perhaps only a woman writer could have brought” He further added, “Most thriller writers tend to be men and one would
argue that their most female characters tend to be twodimensional and that is one advantage Manjiri has. She does put herself in the mind and emotion of the female character”.
While conversing with Dr. Manjiri Prabhu and Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Dr. Alka Pande congratulated Manjiri on being a crackling story-teller. She said, its an unput-down-able book. Manjiri is writing in a genre which is a kind of cosmopolitan and there are various connections like the runes, astrology, myth, magic with are on a parallel trajectory.
While talking about her novel,
Dr. Prabhu explained her genre of Destination Thrillers series of which ‘The Trail of four’ was the first novel based in Salzburg, Austria and ‘Voice of The runes’ is the second one based in Lund, Sweden. Re Parkar, a Paris-based investigative journalist is the main protagonist in this series.
The event was wellattended by literary enthusiasts and avid readers in Delhi. The novel is published by internationally famous publishers ‘Bloomsbury’. The novel is available in all major stores and online portals like Amazon.
HarperCollins to Publish Made in China by Parinda Joshi
BY HARPER BROADCAST
HarperCollins India isproud to announce that it has acquired the publishing rights, all languages, World, for Parinda Joshi’s Made in China.
The movie adaptation of Made in China, a Maddock Films production starring Rajkummar Rao, Mouni Roy and Boman Irani, is scheduled to release on Independence Day 2019. The film will be directed by National Award winner Mikhil Musale.
Meanwhile, Dinesh Vijan of ‘Hindi Medium’ fame will produce the movie.
The book, a hilarious account of a struggling Gujarati businessman’s journey to becoming entrepreneurial success, is the first in the twobook deal with the author.
‘It’s been a long-cherished desire of mine to work with HarperCollins. My surfboard has
been spruced up, and I’m absolutely elated to ride this wave with them. It’s going to be double the fun!’ said Parinda Joshi, adding, ‘I’d woken up one bright morning in May 2008 with a vivid dream in which I was watching a movie based on a book I had written. That dream ostensibly has been the guiding light, and here we are, a decade later.
‘Maddock has produced several brilliant and widely loved films across genres over the years and the adaptation of my novel couldn’t be in more adept and nurturing hands,’ she said.
Dinesh Vijan, Founder, Maddock Films said, ‘Made in China is quirky, funny and yet it makes you think. I felt it needed to be experienced by more people and that’s why we decided to adapt it. It’s our endeavor at Maddock to get interesting stories to a larger audience, and this delightful journey of our protagonist is sure to tickle your funny bone and touch your heart!’
Swati Daftuar, Commissioning Editor, said ‘In Made in China, Parinda brings together a brilliantly constructed plot and
layered, rounded characters, serving a gripping, entertaining book that you will eat up in a single sitting, but remember for a long time. But what really distinguishes Parinda is how she packs at the center of each book a core that’s strong, urgent and timely. These are stories from a changing, evolving India, and I’m so glad that we’re publishing an author who tells these stories so well.’
About the Book - Everyone around Raghu has made it big. His closest friends and family members all seem to be running big, successful businesses, living luxurious lives in the diamond capital of India. And Raghu? All this forty-year-old Gujarati businessman from Surat has is the pity of others.
His family-inherited Nepali handicraft imports business has unexpectedly collapsed and cash is drying out quickly. His wife, Rukmini thinks he a loser, his family does not respect him and society considers him irrelevant.
And then, a successful first cousin, Devraj, tips Raghu off about consumer goods that could be sourced from China and
offers to take him along on his next trip, knowing fully well that it won’t be Raghu’s cup of tea.
But slowly, after being initially overwhelmed by the cultural oddities at the convention and elsewhere, Raghu begins to get the hang of things.
E QUEEN OF JASMINE COUNTRY
Made in China outlines a wacky, darkly comical, soul-stirring and unusual entrepreneurial journey of a simple but ambitious protagonist and his family, complete with dysfunctionality, heartbreak, and hilarity.
BY SHARANYA MANIVANNAN
SCENE BEHIND THE
The biggest literature festival of the country was held on December 1st and 2nd 2018 in Delhi.
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The fourth edition of Times Literature Festival 2018, which took place in India Habitat Centre, Delhi last week, was a great success as leading authors across the country and several international authors from Australia, Iceland, Norway, Canada, Italy, and the UK took part in sessions that
addressed many issues--from literature to politics, social problems to health.
The theme of the festival this year was ‘Beyond Covers’ –Literature that reaches beyond the covers of books to touch all aspects of lives and helps us understand, reach out to and empathise with the world and fellow humans.
former President of India Dr. Pranab Mukherjee. “This is a unique literary festival of ideas that address contemporary concerns. Festivals like this have been at the forefront of revitalizing the interest of the young, technologically driven generation, towards the fine world of literature,” said Dr. Mukherjee.
international authors, the festival also had Sunday Times’ No. 1 bestseller author Clare Mackintosh who talked about the intoxicating world of thrillers and on similar lines, Kjell Ola Dahl from Norway and Hallgrimur Helgason from Iceland along with Kiran Manral unfolded the deliciously dark world of Nordic Noir works.
This is a unique literary festival of ideas that address contemporary concerns. Festivals like this have been at the forefront of revitalizing the interest of the young, technologically driven generation, towards the fine world of literature.
Also, noted journalists, leaders and authors talked on various burning issues related to politics and current affairs. From the world of movies, Meghna Gulzar, Vikramaditya Motwane and Prasoon Joshi discussed the changing trends of Hindi cinema.
Several interactive workshops for both children and adults
upped the lively ambience of the Fest as many participated gleefully. From storytelling to cartooning to doodling -- Times Lit Fest-Delhi 2018 had a lot to offer for kids. Adults, too, seemed to have an enriching experience with talks by Henry Eliot on classics, Sean O'Reilly on the Irish art of short story writing, Joshua Pollock on a way to heartfulness meditation,
audiences engaged. From India's youngest Dastangoi performer to Zila Khan's soulful music to the performance of Ghalib's extraordinary verses -- Delhi dedicated two great evenings to culture and literature.
Vinita Dawra Nangia, Director of Times Literature Festival Delhi,
that I have ever seen anywhere earlier. An eclectic mix of authors, nationalities, discussions, workshops and activities served to give the Festival a unique flavour that uplifted and added to the ongoing discussions on literature, society, politics, ideas and much more."
She added, "I wont be surprised if this Festival finds its place on the world calendar of festivals very soon!"
I wont be surprised if this Festival finds its place on the world calendar of festivals very soon!
HOT OFF THE PRESS
The epic story of ROBERT CLIVE and the dawn of the British Empire in India
It is 1744, and Nicholas Ballantyne, a young Scotsman dreaming of a life as laird of his ancestral estate finds himself quite unexpectedly on the Winchester, a ship bound for Hindustan, seeking to begin a new life as a ‘writer’ on the rolls of the British East India Company. On board, he meets the spirited and mercurial Robert Clive, determined – at whatever cost – to make a fortune in a land of opportunity.
Over the years that follow, their friendship sees many twists and turns as Clive’s restless hunger for wealth and power takes him from being a clerk to a commander in the Company’s forces, masterminding plans to snuff out rival French interests
in Hindustan and eventually leading his men to victory at Plassey - the prelude to nearly two centuries of foreign rule in Hindustan.
Brilliantly crafted, and bringing to life the momentous events that shook India in the mid-eighteenth century, Fortune’s Soldier is an epic tale of a fascinating era by a master storyteller.
The epic story of ROBERT CLIVE and the dawn of the British Empire in India
HOT OFF THE PRESS
A
whimsical examination of the human condition, filled with nuance and wit
The Encyclopaedia Medicinae at the Central Library is the repository of a dizzying array of ailments, and Máximo is thrilled to get a peek at the obscure afflictions:
An amnesia that causes everyone you’ve ever met to forget you exist, while you remain painfully aware of your history.
A malady that erodes the link between cause and effect: one man commits a murder, another carries the guilt and a third is sentenced for it. A condition that causes your body to imitate death – stopping your heart, cooling your blood. Will the fit pass before they bury you, or after?
As Máximo soon discovers, the pursuit of knowledge at the Central Library is tangled up with the humour and inclinations of the writers and their times. The Afflictions is the brilliant first novel by physicianscientist Vikram Paralkar, whose The Wounds of the Dead garnered much critical acclaim.
Veiled in a pseudo-medieval setting and a list of surreal illnesses, the author presents a relatable version of what truly ails us all.
A whimsical examination of the human condition, filled with nuance and wit
HOT OFF THE PRESS
In the storytelling vein of RK Narayan’s Malgudi Days
A boy communes with the gods by talking to a pillar. The ‘hibiscus girl’ has her head in the clouds and feet gently planted in her husband’s home. Two women, married to the same man, find a strange camaraderie binding them together. The whole town gathers to save the friendly neighbourhood shopkeeper’s ice cream from spoiling in the heat. Short-tempered Seshadri hides a terrible shame in his outbursts. A grandfather passes on the magic of self-belief to his grandson.
Reminiscent of Malgudi Days, Adithi Rao’s debut Left from the Nameless Shop is a charming collection of interconnected
stories set in the 1980s featuring the residents of Rudrapura, a small, fictitious town in Karnataka. This is a place bubbling with energy and the sense of community – one you probably lived in and loved while growing up. These are stories of the life you have left behind. One that you hope to return to.
‘A heart-warming and reassuring celebration of the small and the relevant, which is the need of the hour.’ – Mansoor Khan, Film-maker and author
Unsullied by the complexities of modernity and set in the fictional town of Rudrapura, Adithi Rao’s debut collection is part nostalgia and part longing for a simpler time and way of life. Her observations on small-town India are evocative and reminiscent of bedtime stories
Stories from the life you have left behind. One that you hope to return to.
USHA NARAYANAN
Author, Kartikeya and His Battle with the Soul Stealer
How did your interest shift from working in the corporate field to writing? Was it already a passion?
Passion for the English language led me to do my post-graduation in English Literature. From there, it was a natural progression to a long and flourishing career as writer and creative director in advertising, radio and corporate communications. Finally, I took the ultimate step of writing for myself, instead of writing for clients. Therefore, my core interest remained the same and there was no shift as such. Fortunately, readers seem to like my books and I continued on that path. And now, I have a tally of eight books in five years, published by leaders in the field.
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
Most of your books are based on mythology. Does it fascinate you?
I think the spectacular canvas that mythology provides is the most fascinating. I’m fortunate that I discovered this genre. My characters are gods and demons, fabulous birds and beasts. Boons and curses, magical weapons, travel through time—there’s so much room for the imagination, to fly to heaven and the netherworld along with my heroes and villains.
Are you influenced by all the mythological stories that you heard during your childhood?
Actually, I studied in a convent and had no exposure to these stories! It was only after I wrote a thriller and a romance that I began reading the puranas. To read was to fall in love. And from there, it was a short
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
journey to writing about these marvellous characters and their lives. I focused on little-known heroes and gods, which is why I have written ‘Pradyumna: Son of Krishna’, its sequel, ‘The Secret of God’s Son’ and my latest, ‘Kartikeya and His Battle with the Soul Stealer’.
Anuradha Prasad with her book 'Coming Back Home' Nataraja, Kartikeya, Ganesha and the Devis in their various forms.
What kind of research have you been doing while authoring books like ‘Kartikeya’ and ‘Pradyumna: Son of Krishna’?
Did your native place also have an influence in adding to your interest in mythology?
I was born in Tamil Nadu and have lived here most of my life. The State is rich in tradition and boasts of over 33,000 temples, many of which are more than 1000 years old. It is definitely inspiring to see the temple carvings portraying stories from mythology and the stunning images of Vishnu,
For ‘Pradyumna’, I pored over tomes in libraries and research institutes, and visited Pancha Dwaraka, the five sacred places associated with Krishna. I read and reread the puranas that are many thousand pages long and often give varying accounts of the same event.
For ‘Kartikeya’, I looked into northern and southern narrations of Kartikeya and Muruga, and delved into his story as it was told in Sri Lanka where also he is worshipped. It was a labour of love that consumed me for many months!
Do you think a few people may differ from you regarding some events or subplots that you have written? How do you deal with such situations?
I look for unusual stories, as you will find in my latest book ‘Awaken the Durga Within’, where I seek to motivate women to unleash their inner shakti, so that they may claim their rightful place at home and work. The Sita you see in the book is definitely not the weeping wife waiting for her husband to rescue her! In my novel ‘Prem Purana: Mythological Love Stories’, I have fleshed out the characters of Ganesha’s wives Riddhi, Buddhi and Siddhi, and Ravana’s wife Mandodari, who are merely mentioned in passing in the puranas.
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
As for hostility or opposition to the way I have portrayed events, I have not had to face this. I treat our deities with love and respect, and our readers are intelligent enough to understand this. I hope that this will continue in the future as well.
Many of today's youth seem to be atheists or agnostics. Will these mythological books written in simpler language make them understand our history?
I certainly hope so. I discovered our ancient lore very late and fear that the next generation and future ones will have even less knowledge about our Puranas. They will be deprived of the wisdom that our sages embedded in their colorful tales of gods and goddesses. I am hopeful that
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
when they know more, they will return to a faith that has stayed alive for so many thousands of years.
Anuradha Prasad with her book 'Coming Back Home'
Which genres other than mythology are you interested in writing?
I have written a thriller, two romances and four mythological stories. ‘Awaken the Durga Within’ is a unique combination of self help and mythology. Who knows what the future holds? To me, the excitement lies in exploring the unknown!
What is the biggest surprise that you experienced after becoming a writer?
The love that readers exhibit in various forums is so generous and gratifying. They message me on social media, comment and review my books, give me suggestions, and embrace my eclectic range of books, though they may have their own preferences in genre! This love is what keeps me travelling on the long, often lonely path before each novel enters the bookstore.
What are some ways in which you promote your work? Do you find that these add to or detract from your writing time?
I promote my work through interviews with media and bloggers. I meet readers and writers at events and share their reviews of my books on
He was the son of fierce Durga and three-eyed Shiva. He had been born, he had lived, and he would die if need be, for a divine purpose-to kill the Soul Stealer Surapadma's reign of terror flourishes and the fate of all creatures-mortal and immortal-hangs in the balance. Shiva's son, Kartikeya, must destroy several formidable asuras before he can confront the Soul Stealer and salvage the dying, gasping universe.
Order Now:
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
social media, interacting regularly with friends and followers. My books and my posts reflect my thinking and interests—women’s rights, animal welfare, positivity and humour. I have a good network of friends on Facebook and Linkedin. Twitter helps me engage with people across nations. For instance, a professor of Indian mythology in a US university regularly reads and appreciates my books.
Of course, it is time consuming to do all this. I cannot really concentrate on my writing when I am launching a book or sometimes two in quick succession! But it is necessary to reach out to more people and introduce my work to a wider audience. Their feedback is
vital to my growth as a writer.
What projects are you working on at present?
Not just one, but two of my books have just been released. So I’m currently busy promoting them, sharing interviews and reviews, connecting with people on platforms like Facebook Live or conveying festive greetings! Knowing that what is posted online is there forever, I try to ensure that each communication is fresh, interesting and carefully edited. So this takes up a lot of time. There is not much time left to work on a new project at present. But I am looking forward to doing that in the near future.
What are your plans for future projects?
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
I have an exciting idea for not one but two books! I have already done quite a bit of research on this. But it is a very complex proposition and I need to have some uninterrupted time to outline it and present it to publishers. I can hardly wait to start the process
Anuradha Prasad with her book 'Coming Back Home' Their professionalism, their distribution, etc are excellent and this allows me to focus more on my writing. I have published four books with my editor Vaishali Mathur and one with Rudra Sharma and will always be grateful for their wonderful support.
How do you feel about eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?
Ebooks are quite an amazing proposition and self publishing on platforms like Amazon gives you total control over every stage of your publishing and promotion. However, I am happy at the moment with conventional publishing, having worked with leading publishers such as Penguin, HarperCollins and Rupa.
Who are some of your favourite authors that you feel were influential in your work? What impact have they had on your writing?
I read widely and voraciously and my favourites keep changing. At the moment, I am reading bestselling author Diane Capri’s thrillers. Lee Child says her work is “Full of thrills and tension, but smart and human, too.” Reading great authors inspires me to make my work the best it can be, to have readers turning the pages eagerly, impatient to find out what will happen next!
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
What is the most important thing that people DON'T know about your subject/genre, which they need to know?
Talking of mythology, readers sometimes fail to realize that the stories are not to be taken literally. Our ancient bards deftly packaged the lessons of life in vivid stories, portraying gods and goddesses as exhibiting human emotions and vices like greed, lust and arrogance. This serves to highlight the truths about karma and dharma in an easily understandable fashion. Therefore, it is unwise, for example, to question a god with two or three wives, when the wives are merely representations of his own qualities such as wisdom or compassion. Readers need to unravel the deeper meanings that underlie these stories.
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
Anuradha Prasad with her book
How does your current book ‘Kartikeya and His Battle with the Soul Stealer’ as well as others you have written relate to your spiritual practice or I believe in the essential goodness of humankind, in compassion and a positive attitude. I actively advocate equal rights and opportunities for women. And as we find ourselves inundated by stories of crime and abuse, my hero Pradyumna speaks for me when he says: ‘We too can lift Mount Govardhana with the power of our minds and win the war that we face every day. This is the time to raise and our fists if
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
For those interested in exploring the various books you have written, where should they start?
Please visit my website www.ushanarayanan.com. You can click on various tabs and find out everything about me and my books. Read my bio, the blurbs, excerpts, reviews and interviews in the media, and blogger reviews on my blog. You can write to me through the Contact page. I’m always happy to interact with readers, reviewers and the media.
What were your goals and intentions in writing ‘Kartikeya’, and how well do you feel you have achieved them?
Early reviewers say that they knew very little about Kartikeya until they read my book! I set out to write the definitive book on Shiva’s son, exploring his past lives, his mission to save the three realms and his love for Devasena and Valli, the maidens from heaven and earth. As for how well I have succeeded, here’s what a veteran reviewer says: ‘Though I have always had a soft spot for Ganesha, I totally tumbled into love with Kartikeya, helped by the fact that Usha Narayanan’s style of writing makes the characters alive and vibrant.’
What do you think is most useful in learning to write? What is least useful or most destructive?
Reading good authors with a powerful command over language is the most vital prerequisite to writing well. The most destructive practice would be to blindly imitate bestselling authors or choosing the most popular genre. A good book must resonate with your soul and your vision. Remember that no one will read a copy of some book they like, when the original is available! Good luck to all aspiring authors.
Anything you would like to say to your readers and fans?
I treasure your feedback and look forward to each comment, good or bad, as it helps me fine-tune my writing and broaden my thinking. Keep writing to me and I promise to respond.
AUTHOR INTERVIEWS
Contact me through my website www.ushanarayanan.com or www.facebook.com/writer usha. My handle is @writerusha on Twitter and Instagram.
@writerusha @writerusha
Anuradha Prasad with her book 'Coming Back Home'
ME 2.0
by Abhrekha Jain Sahlot
Well, now is the time, let’s take a moment to prepare ourselves for the coming new year and become a better version of ourselves – Me.2.0
“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called as “opportunity” and its first chapter is “ New Year’s Day”
- Edith Lovejoy Pierce
“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called as “opportunity” and its first chapter is “ New Year’s Day” - Edith Lovejoy Pierce
The New Year is very near, and with the holiday season already upon us many people are indulging in retrospection and reevaluating some of their life choices and habits.
New Year’s resolutions are the perfect opportunity for all those who have failed to start making the changes that they said they would make next week, next month, or perhaps when another season starts.
Well, now is the time, let’s take a moment to prepare ourselves for the coming new year and become a better version of ourselves – Me.2.0
Eat healthy, Think Better: Food is fuel for our body and based on what we eat, our mind and body functions. Hence, have some self-determination and selfcontrol when you see junk food.
Learn to control emotional eating, be aware of reasons for diets to fail, make use of these tricks and have a look at these awesome and healthy recipes.
Reduce
Screen time, Increase Family Interaction Time & Me
Time: These days I find people talking over mobile chats even after sitting in front of each other.
The technology might have reduced the distance statistically, but I find a lot of gaps and distance in thoughts and relationships. Have we forgotten that humans have made mobiles and we should not be replacing humans with mobile? Let’s pledge to stay away from our mobile phones for a few hours once we get up and a few hours before we sleep.
I Am sure this will leave us with some time for ourselves and our hobbies.
Never Give Up, Stay Motivated: ”The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old but on building the new” –Socrates
Let go which is holding you back, you can always start again. Every day is the new beginning, so treat it that way, stay away from what might have been and look at what can be.
Get Started, be ready for any failures, Take each failure as a lesson and mistakes as learning.
Don't wait until New Year's Eve to choose your resolution. Take some time out a few days before and think about what you want to achieve Avoid previous resolutions. Deciding to revisit a past resolution sets might upset you. Don’t run with the crowd and go with the usual resolutions. Instead think about what you really want out of life. Tell your friends and family about your goals. You're more likely to get support and want to avoid failure. Give yourself a small reward whenever you achieve a sub-goal, which will help to motivate you and give you a sense of progress. Make your plans and progress concrete by
keeping a handwritten journal, completing a computer spreadsheet or covering a notice board with graphs or pictures. Wishing all the readers a very happy and prosperous new year!
Meet Abhrekha Jain Sahlot, the name is derivative of her parent’s name ( Abhay & Rekha). She is full of life, energy and enthusiasm. A gold medalist computer engineer she has been working with top MNC for over 13 years now.
Blessed with an incredible supportive family, Husband Tushar Sahlot stands behind her as the strongest pillar of strength, shouldering equal responsibilities at home. A doting mother of 2 boys ( Nabhanyu & Daksh Sahlot), life has given her various opportunities to explore and she seems to have taken best of everything. From singing, painting to acting, swimming and basketball, she has been into various co-curricular activities from artistic ones to the sports ones. However, currently, she enjoys sharing her blessings with fellow women by addressing women and parenting forums and helping women in her capacity and spread message & the importance of being happy & content
DOORS ARE OPEN FOR 2019
BY MANIL MAYANK MISHRA
While watching a preview of a master class by acclaimed film maker, Meera Nair, I stumbled upon this powerful statement by her – If You Don’t tell Your Own Story, No One Else Will. So, here I am. Telling you all what 2018 had had for me.
Here, at the very onset, when I look back, 2018 certainly wasn’t a mere calendar year for me.
This has been a year where ‘consolidation’ was the word. While rejecting the principled social idea of ‘moving on’ upon irrelevant people, structures and incidents, I grew wiser to let time intervene purposefully instead. The effect of this gesture was such that I simply enjoyed the design of nature and rusted people, stale happenings, strange
surroundings, zealous emotions clearly became oblivious to me. I was cleansed, made collected and therefore continued to a much galloping tomorrow. What were left were affirmative, contributing and integral memories and models from past which is why they are going to go a long way with me, in fact, forever. Rest all of it, like I said, was just a residue.
I have run, quested and fought a lot in my life. 2018 told me the pure alchemy of being a little resistible to change and complexities. It taught me to appreciate settlement and simplicity. It introduced me to a clean philosophy that two parallel lines may never meet but it’s the expectation of meeting which keeps the lines parallel, always. Therefore, I became more empathetic towards men and women, families and communities who are in troubled relationships with society or individuals but are still trying hard to save love and cohesion.
I am not fond of reading. I am fond of books which are worth reading. This year, I got more focused on the institution of reading per se. As this provokes you to imagine the latent emotion which someone writes you to imagine the way it has been evolved. It makes you to develop a kind of subaltern outlook. This therefore, improved my emotional response to distress and difference. My understanding of virtues and vices, bonds and togetherness got more affirmed. However, some emotional instability by the passing away of a very docile family member (who I couldn’t give much in my life, the reason, I partly feel I too am responsible for his demise) and two of my friends’ from poetry and theatre jolted me for quite some time. However, the arrival of a little baby girl in our family removed the existing sorrows and woes like a magic wand. She is every one’s joy, a lovable lad who laughs like rains, moves like a rabbit and looks like a beautiful dove. The only thing everyone
wants in family is to spend time with her.
Coming on to the professional front, 2018 has indeed been like an angelic blessing for me. My professional demeanor, social likability, acceptance and recognition increased dramatically. The year started off by a giving an amazing theatre workshop to acting enthusiasts, and respectable poetry invitation at Hauz Khas and bagging an opportunity to be a part of a physical theatre workshop by an international physical theatre instructor. We moved ahead and our hand written trago –romantic stage production ‘Khushfahamiyaan – Bass Itti Si’ was shortlisted for a national festival followed by a senior theatre director giving us an opportunity again to stage the same production with a lot of galore and adulation. Then again, I am really thankful to my director who cast me in two of their
theatre productions giving me a sense of fulfillment with the success of the shows. Further, we got a chance to raise and stage our new theatrical venture – ‘Raziyah Sultan’ which like all our stage productions, was opened with a huge acceptance. Lastly, I got an opportunity to stage a dramatized performance of our most successful stage production ‘Khushfahamiyaan’ in front of a massive audience at a professional space in Mumbai too.
Opportunities as an actor for media were really fulfilling this year as well. I could work for a digital commercial for the honourable Prime Minister’s official website, a respectable character for an Amazon Prime web series, a highly popular commercial for a tooth paste brand, a web series by an acclaimed director, a decent yet varied role in another popular web series and a very sensible
feature film on North - Eastern issues.
The part on poetry was equally enriching with special invites as a poet to multiple and famous platforms where the audience loved my little contribution to poetry. These platforms, unlike previous years, have a sizeable reach to the online and offline shores nationally and internationally and thus, my recognition as a poet grew rapidly beyond imagination. I was even called out to poetic platforms which specifically cater to the generation of today thereby giving me another perspective to my poetry.
2018, to my utter surprise, thankfully, has been a year of vehement social presence and recognition as well. The journey began with a special invited talk by a famous exchange forum in Delhi on the ‘Approach Towards the Crimes of Rapes in India’ which needed a lot of research and perseverance in preparation however, the success to it came
early as I could give the presentation with earnest ideas and figures. Then came the invitation to speak on my life and career by a national oraganisation on entrepreneurship as a speech of inspiration to people who ranged from big corporate houses to international embassies. The experience was overwhelming and stupendous. Lastly, when a friend recommended me to be interviewed by an online acting support group as a part of a global summit, the consequences of it were beautiful where I could see another perspective to performing arts for a corporate approach is really required to streamline the fate of many struggling actors today. Honestly, neither the year has ended nor my will to tap the maximum potential from any moment, which is why when I got two school projects to write and direct their annual stage productions, I was determined to do it with perfection. It feels really happy when little children of the
Sriram Millennium School acted on your script or the The Ruhi Foundation School which gives you ample of space and command as theatre trainer to take the best out of their students. This isn’t it though. That urge to create something new every day has now made me to write another stage production on my name next year. At present, I am working on that story.
Conclusively, when I think of 2019, it doesn’t sound as an independent calendar year to me either. 2019 for me, shall be a normaliser between my understanding of dreams and their realization. I expect 2019 to be valid extension of the relevant efforts I put in 2018 and also would want good people, great books and decent impressions to stay by. I am looking forward to 2019 not a magical year but as a logical conclusion to all those umpteen debates and discussions I have had with
myself over the practical fulfillment of my dreams. Therefore, I am expecting to write professionally for more established projects. I am also expecting my creative thought process to grow more detailed and methodical so that my creations (writing or acting) become more believable and streamlined. By God’s grace, if things go as perceived, I could run a new stage production, become more conscious about health regimen, be more of a giver than taker and to build strength in the idea of togetherness. Basically, what I see in 2019 is increased independence, acceptable liberty in being socially apt (if not correct) and yes, would certainly put in my best efforts to every opportunity ushered towards me. I want 2019, in totality, to be a year of more plausible work and visible firmness with people who love and acknowledge me the kind I am.
Doors are open 2019, don’t ring the bell, don’t knock the door. Simply enter. You will find a my large heart gleaming with expectations and promises for you.
While working with Barry John Studio (BJS) as a mentor for Children’s workshops and later, with multiple academies as an acting teacher, the process of knowledge sharing strengthened my courage to write commercial stage productions.
My inclination to writing as an individual who can think towards the idea of a beautiful world is a direct outcome of the unique experiences I had with humans and objects which most certainly, still continue.
@manil.mishra
@Manil Mayank Mishra
The New Year's Resolution I Vow For
by Aparna Mukherjee
The dipping temperature and the chilly shivers of the cold breeze mark the onset of the coolest month of December. The year is drawing to a close and people are getting ready to dive in the gaiety mood of the ensuing new year.
With the arrival of December month, people get occupied in planning trips and getaways. The chilly winter months give a reason for people to break the shackles of the hectic schedule and to fly off to a tranquil place to welcome the new year with enthusiasm and celebrations. The last month of the year certainly calls for some exciting winter vacations. As I see
some of my friends are busy in booking the flight tickets and packing their luggages, I am busy jotting down a list of success, failures and achievements in a sheet of paper which I experienced in the present year.
We have noticed people writing down their New Year's resolution and then they used to fail in keeping them till the end of the year. I have seen some of my close pals who sincerely make resolutions at the end of the year and belittle them as they step in the new year.
Since school days, I too have a habit of writing down the New Year's
resolutions, but I would make sure to stick to my resolutions and follow them with all my heart. The funny part was the chart of my New Year's resolution used to be filled with the changes in my food habits. As years passed by and I grew older, my New Year’s resolution was about the challenges I will meet. When I was recalling the accomplishments I notched and the failures I encountered in this year, I was elated to feel that the list of my accomplishments is certainly escalating with very less failures at my end. But, I was missing out something very important in my list which I never paid heed to add.
It is a fact that I succeeded in completing some of my pending tasks of the previous year, I achieved all my targets and goals that I wanted to attain in this year. I received words of praises and
I was rewarded for my work excellence. While I was engrossed in meeting my daily targets and attaining my yearly goals, I did not get time to see the smiling faces of my parents. When I was in school, my new resolution would be to get good grades. After I was enrolled in the college, my New Year’s resolution would be to come out with flying colors and pursue higher studies. In this way, every year my New Year's resolution would centre around my career goals and my achievements. Now, when I have become a successful person and I look at our family album, I realize that it has been a long time I have been with my parents. Although I stay with my parents under one roof, but my busy schedule refrains me from coming close to them. Whenever this realization
pricks my mind, it pushes me in the pit of sadness.
All these years, I had been thinking that my achievements and success are my only priorities in life. I had been thinking that my awards and certificates will make my parents extremely happy and content. Therefore, I used to keep adding my career goals in the list of my New Year's resolution every year. In a bid to give my parents all the luxuries they deserve, I put my life's goals at the forefront. Somewhere I forgot that my parents need my time, not the luxuries. I overlooked the things that would actually make them happy. Today, I have come to know that their priority was me when my priority was to make them proud with my accomplishments.
Of countless resolutions I kept on inscribing on the page of my diary at the end
Each year's regrets are enveloped in which messages of hope are found for the new year.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Photo CreditAnnie Spratt
of every year, for the first time, I will be adding a New Year’s resolution of spending a quality time with my parents on every weekend; no matter how busy I may be in my life. My resolution will be to see the smiles of my parents with my own eyes. My New Year’s resolution will be to share everything bit of my life by talking to them in person, not be speaking to them on video calls.
In a few words, Aparna defines a woman who beholds high aspirations and firmly believes in expanding her horizon. She holds a Master degree in English from Mumbai University. By profession, she is an online content writer and blogger who writes informative articles for various UK and US blogs and websites.
Her poems got published in the digital Reflection Magazine and in the Indian literature website named Facestory's.com. She is a budding author too. Her first story on romantic theme got published in a book named "Memoirs Of Love".
As a person, she is open-minded, down-to-earth and amiable in nature. Her world revolves around creativity. She wishes to make her mark in the literary world, hoping to leave an indelible imprint on her readers' minds.
@mukharji.appy18
Gita-The Battle of the World
by Himani Gupta
The cover of the book is beautifully designed and perfectly matches with the title. The title itself urges you to read the book. The narration is so crisp and interesting that you feel like reading it again and again. The Illustrations and Cartoon pictures really make the book interesting for kids. The concept of the story is very interesting which not only useful for Kids but also for adults as well. We all have good side and bad side as a human being and it is necessary we all fight with our ego (Bad trait). Everything
by Sonal Patel
is beautifully explained by the author in the form of illustrations and cartoon. Also we all must have a good friend like Sanjay who can show us the mirror about our good and bad qualities. A person with ego cannot be happy always. Every parent should make their children read this book so that they understand the moral behind the story which will be helpful for them to grow in their life as a human being. I appreciate author’s hard work in writing such a beautiful story for the children. This book really simplifies the concept of Bhagvad Gita which is commendable. The writing style is commendable. All the characters were beautifully defined specially Arjun and Sanjay which were the highlight of the book. Since it is a children book, I will recommend every parent to purchase this book for their kids so that they can understand the moral of the story and become a nice human being when they grow up. All the very best to the authors.
Book Review
About the Book: When elevenyear-old Dev's father dies, he can't stop lashing out at those he loves. Until he meets Sanjay, a sprite-like being who claims there is a battle raging inside Dev's own body. Sanjay embarks on a perilous journey beginning in the darkest realm at the bottom of Dev's spine. As he searches for the noble warrior Prince Arjun, the only hope to defeat wicked Prince Ego, Sanjay encounters starving mobs, thieving gangs, water worlds and lands of fire, until at last he finds Arjun on the battlefield, ready to fight for Dev. This book takes the epic battle within the Gita and transports it inside the body of a young boy called Dev. A classic story of good overcoming evil, through Dev and Sanjay's adventure, readers will be able to connect with some of the deeper concepts in the Gita. 'It's time that the Gita is presented in its true context - not as a moralistic or religious book, but as a book that is relevant to everybody's
About the Author: Sonal Patel is a British-Indian mother with strong cultural roots. She has been a disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda for over twenty years, practising yoga and meditation every day. Jemma Wayne-Kattan graduated from Cambridge University and obtained her PGDIP in broadcast journalism from the University of Westminster before becoming a journalist and writer. She lives in north London. life.' -SADHGURU, one of India's leading spiritual teachers.
Book Review
Summary:
Book: Gita-The Battle of the world
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Verdict: ☆☆☆☆ A book dedicated to kids so that they can learn the concept of bad traits and good traits and how we can fight the good traits. Not only kids we adult also must learn from this book. A nice and beautiful concept to read.
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.
@himanigoyal21
I am lucky to get associated with Storizen as it brings out the good author in me. The topics are given as the theme in the forthcoming issues always make me churn my mind and it's a very healthy practice I must admit.
Secondly whenever I receive a mail from Storizen asking me if I can contribute to it; it turns me into a responsible author as well. If a magazine makes an author feel that privileged so much so that he or she, in turn, feel connected to the cause is a sign of mutual evolution!
-Lt Col Ankita Srivastava
Storizen not only created a platform for budding writers but also opened up a stage for showcasing thoughts and penning down emotions. A medium where one can have an ear to hear and a back to support.
Thank you Storizen.
-Namrata Thakur
Many thanks for the wonderful opportunity to connect with Storizen and reconnect with my poetic self - the deluge in Kerala was devastating, yet there was magic in the air and that feeling was so strong. I had to rhyme it and am really grateful to Storizen team for publishing it
Wishing Storizen team all the very best for a wonderful year ahead and keep inspiring and connecting the world with the magic of words and pictures.
-Shalini Menezes
Lt Col Ankita
Srivastava
Namrata Thakur
Shalini Menezes
Many Congratulations for the success.
Storizen indeed means a lot to me. It has inspired me to a great extent. Each published write-up in the Storizen magazine projects inspiration to the readers. The interviews of dignitaries and articles, stories poems of various experienced and budding writers are worth reading.
My idea of New Year's resolution has been mentioned in the story I submitted in the December issue. Giving time to my family will be my New Year's resolution of 2019.
May Storizen Magazine scale new heights in the field of the publishing industry. Best wishes now and always.
-Aparna Mukherjee
Storizen was one of the first few portals where my work was published and it also gave me a chance to read some really good works by some of the good upcoming authors. Over the last few years
Storizen has given a good doze of entertainment and exposure to a lot of people such as myself, and I thank you guys for that!
-Shubham Choudhary
Aparna Mukherjee
Shalini Menezes
Shubham Choudhary
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