Expressions Unlimited - InkStudioz by Sunill Kaushik

MEET THE TEAM VINIT K BANSAL Editor In Chief Best Selling Author of ‘I am heartless’ and ‘Wo chali Gai’

SUNILL KAUSHIK Creative Head

Director of Inkstudioz Pvt. Ltd.

HARSHITA SRIVASTAVA Managing Editor Author of ‘One In A Million’

MAHI SINGLA Promotional Head & Contributor Author of ‘IT Hurts’ and ‘12 Hours’ releasing this 2013

ABHILASH RUHELA Executive Editor One of the best bloggers of India

ANJIT SHARMA aka Crestless Wave Copy Editor Author of ‘Uff Ye Emotions’

ASTHA SINGH

Reviewer & Contributor

SANHITA BARUAH Contributor

Author ‘Uff ye Emotions’

HIMANSHU APPIE CHHABRA Contributor

JASINDAH MIR

Author ‘Uff ye Emotions’

Content Developer

Our Online Promotion Partner

www.thebookoholics.in

SPOTLIGHT Ravinder singh ‘Heartthrob of Industry’

RISE OF A PUBLISHER Mahaveer Publishers

THE WOODEN WINDCHIME Short Story by Dhristi Dasgupta

P11 P16

RISING STAR Sid Bahri Heenashree Khandelwal TEARS... NOT JUST DROP OF WATER Short Story by Parul Parihar

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UPCOMING BOOKS Sophie Says -Judy Balan Chakra:Chronicles of Witch Way - Ritu Lalit SMTP - Crorepati turns Roadpati - Ashutosh Bhatia

P21

BOOK REVIEWS The Oath of Vayuputras Someone Like You

P24

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART World of Words - Anjit Sharma

P24 P27

POETS CORNER

ANOTHER WORLD OF LITERATURE - COMIC INDUSTRY Rudra Matsa Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.

SPOTLIGHT

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HEARTTHROB OF INDUSTRY

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RAVINDER SINGH

ASTHA SINGH

SPOTLIGHT

Ravinder Singh has made a permanent residence in young hearts from his debut novel, ‘I Too Had a Love Story’ and second novel, ‘Can Love Happen Twice?’ After spending most of his life in Burla, a very small town in Orissa, Ravinder has finally settled down in Chandigarh. He has worked as a software engineer in some of India’s prominent IT companies; recently, he has completed MBA from the world-renowned Indian School of Business, Hyderabad. Ravinder loves to play snooker in his spare time. He is crazy about Punjabi music and loves to dance to its beat.

Here we are presenting what he said in his exclusive interview. Astha: When your first book ‘I Too Had a Love Story’ came out, what was the reaction of people around you, that is, parents, friends, neighbours, relatives, etc.? Ravinder Singh: My parents got to know about the story that I was writing when I was almost halfway through. Their reaction wasn't very positive in the beginning because they thought I was taking a plunge into the deep oceans of drama; but then I had a bunch of good friends who supported me and backed me up with my decision of writing a romantic novel. So I thought of moving forward with it and completed my story. Astha: How long did it take to write both the books - from the moment you started developing the story to finally editing it? Ravinder Singh: It took me almost a year to write the first book, and almost six months to find a publisher for it. The first book was launched in 2008. The second book came in 2011. It took me almost the same amount of time to write it. The reason for this gap of two years is that I wanted to establish myself as an author; besides, I also need time to think on the next book. Astha: Will you keep attempting writing as other contemporary writers or will you try to script a topic that is intense and deep?

BOOKS OF

RAVINDER SINGH APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

3 Ravinder Singh: I'm an author by chance; there was a reason behind my first book and then my second book - they just happened to be love stories, I am not bound by them. There was a reason behind writing these stories. I wanted my story to reach out to the readers, not that I wrote them on purpose. Astha: What urged you to release an anthology written by others by personalizing it wholly as if it’s a Ravinder Singh’s product? Ravinder Singh: The anthology includes 25 different stories of 25 different people; my role was to simply compile and edit them as an editor. The concept is great and the idea behind seemed legit also. There is obviously an association and a win-win situation for all the three stakeholders - the publisher, the editor and the upcoming authors; it gives them a platform to come forward and prove their creativity. Young and budding authors aren't aware of how to approach a publisher and this was an excellent way to bring all that together. It was my dream to bring these new wannabe authors’ totters and compile an anthology in order to provide them with a medium. The hard work of the authors, the publisher and the editor is involved. It is a tedious task but is altogether a combined effort. Astha: As Indian authors are accused for degrading the quality of English and not giving a chance for readers to learn something new, can we expect some good vocabulary, idioms, phrases, one-word substitutions, etc. from you in future? Ravinder Singh: Every field of art has got plenty of channels to communicate; for example, in music we have different genres like classical music, rock music, etc. Similar in the case with Bollywood - we have action, drama, etc. Likewise in literature, we have different literary journals, coffee table magazines, comic books, popular fictions, etc. As long as the author is keeping language sanctity, it's alright to use a layman language. There will be critics for all sorts of work, but then, none can EXPRESSIONS UNLIMITED - A PRODUCT OF INKSTUDIOZ PVT. LTD.

SPOTLIGHT

justify where an author stands because only the popularity of the text can justify the author’s work. The purpose of the author is to narrate a story, and hence, the purpose should be met in the best possible manner. Both the authors and readers should feel satisfied with the work. Astha: Indian publishing is too hard to deal with. Was it easy for you to get a publisher or did you wait for a long time to get your work published initially? Ravinder Singh: My first book came out in 2008. Like the market is flooded today with publishers, those days, they were much less in number. The entire market for writing is not structured, which leads to many issues including the publishers’ making false promises to the wannabe authors, taking advantage of them and asking money from them to publish their work. For a debut author who doesn't know what to do and how to go about it is extremely difficult. Many publishers often reject brilliant masterpieces and manuscripts, which have the potential to be best sellers too. A debut author can easily be misled by such activities and feel rather dejected. Astha: What are the promotional strategies that you and your publisher have applied to promote/market your books? Ravinder Singh: Most of the promotional strategies were all from my mind. Srishti was the publisher of my first book; they did not spend a single penny in my marketing. So I had to search out for a way to market the book on my own. ‘I Too Had a Love Story’ had the protagonists meeting through shaadi.com; so I thought of speaking to some people at shaadi.com and seek for a positive response. I had a word with them and they agreed; so we launched the book with their name in Chandigarh. Also I happened to be working for Infosys at that time. I thought of approaching Mr. Narayan Murthy to say something about my work, to which he answered and his review is still printed on my book. After that, I created a website and did some social networking through Orkut because Facebook hadn't really paced up. I, by and large, tapped every possible medium as I could. For my second book, the ride was much easier as my publisher was Penguin, but then again, mentions of Red FM in the book led me to approach them as for incorporating them as a partner, which we eventually did. On the other hand, contests on the Facebook page for the title and designing the book cover were also a part of it. We also did an allIndia tour for launching the book as my publisher was also keenly interested in this process. Astha: After seeing the success of ‘Five Point Someone’, that it was adapted as a Blockbuster movie later on, did you ever feel as if your books can also achieve this feat or are you working on building some contacts to get your books turned into visual format? Ravinder Singh: Yes, my purpose is to share my story not just as an author because there is a APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

SPOTLIGHT

large audience that doesn't read but also reach out to them through this medium by converting it into a movie. I have been approached by some banners who were interested in my work but I believe that there is a life-cycle of every book that it must complete because only then can it be converted into a movie or any other form of visual representation. When the time is right, I would love to reach out to a larger number of audience through this, but I would want a good banner that would do justice to my story and portray it to my compelete satisfaction. Astha: What exactly is your target from your books - 1. Getting most copies sold out, 2. Getting the love of readers, or 3. You just wrote it because you wanted to write a book once in your life; hence, you have no targets? Ravinder Singh: I'm an author by chance; my whole idea is that when people read my work, they should think that it is worth every penny spent and also wait eagerly for the next book to be launched. I would be glad if my readers are enthusiastic about my work and are completely happy with what I have presented to them. I think that has always been my prerogative. Astha: In the end, tell us in 5-7 lines, what speech will you give if you win a Major Award for the Best Indian Author for your books? Ravinder Singh: I think awards are overrated. I am not sure if they justify the work of an author. It might be true in an objective world, though it certainly is a secondary thing. Still, if I have to answer your question then, I would thank my readers who instead of spending money elsewhere like going to a movie or going to a cafe, etc. chose to invest in my book by buying it and reading it with all their love. It is the readers that matters and that justify the work of an author.

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“

I'm an author by chance; my whole idea is that when people read my work, they should think that it is worth every penny spent and also wait eagerly for the next book to be launched.

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RISE OF A PUBLISHER

An innovative concept of a fertile brain of Mr. B.K. Das, who after working with the Books' industry for a modest period of his life, launched himself as one of the infant publishers in 2003 with his maiden product titled ‘Animal Farm’ and named his publication as ‘Mahaveer’ being inspired by his religious sentiment since he is a hardcore devotee. His very first product was such a big hit and earned such a high appraisal from various corners of India that he hardly bothered to turn back. He continued to diligently take his step further and take care of the interest of the readers. Though during the span of 10 years, Mahaveer could publish only 149 titles, n the last 2 years, they have (in all respects) developed themselves to such a level that they stake their claim to publish around 90 to 100 titles in a year. What is more striking is that during the preceding 2 to 3 years, besides giving so many bestseller titles, a couple of them have been listed in the Nelson list which no doubt is a great achievement.

RISE OF A

PUBLISHER

Constitution of Mahaveer Like others, they have also constituted a robust team of editors and sub-editors supported by a wellorganized team of designers who religiously subscribe their efforts which goes into the making of a quality product. It is noteworthy that most of their writers are young, innovative, matured, and are from various fields and different parts of India. At the same time, they are proud to mention that they have the writers of national & international repute also like Sri Sarvari, D.B. Gurung and Sri Swami Rama whose writings are going to add a new feather to their cap. It will not be a hyperbole if we claim that they are a platform from where the budding writers find their source to grow into a beautiful plant.

Segments of Publications During the span of Three Years, they have so far been able to contribute to the publishing Industry on various segments like Fictions, Non-Fictions, Classic, Biographies, Health, Food & nutrition, Religion, Philosophies, Self-help, and Language Series in English and have recently stepped on to publish in Hindi language as well. Besides, they are fully geared up to publish the books of any category and in any language what so ever. But their sole purpose is to cater to the taste of the readers and to supply them with the desired stuff at much affordable cost.

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Mahaveer takes pride to assert that most of their books have been launched by certain dignified and celebrated personalities of India; to name a few are our honourable Min. of Commerce Dr. D. Purandeshwari; Hon' Min of I & B. Mr. Manish Tiwari; Mr. Anurag Basu (Director of the film ‘Barfi’); Bollywood superstar Ms. Vidya Balan and many others. The way their publications are launched itself signals the mileage they have fortunately been able to cover up so far.

Distribution Network Mahaveer’s own distribution network is spread all over India, Nepal, Bhutan, and many other countries. They are available on more than many websites and social networking sites. Thus, in nut shell, it will be apt to say that their presence can be observed everywhere through their own network named ‘Vaibhav Book Service (India)’ and ‘Bajrangbali Book Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. (Nepal)’ under the able leadership of their managers supported by the entire team. And behind all this stands Mr. B.K. Das blessed with huge amount of experience, foresightedness, matured strategy and excellent analytical power which have brought this infant Mahaveer to the level of maturity establishing itself among the reputed publishers of India within a short span of time.

bookpremi.com Like their distribution network citied above, they have recently setup their own website also to reach the individual readers who have got their internet access. This forms the online part of Mahaveer Publishers which in fact, is a privilege to their readers to reach them quite easily.

Readers' Views What others do is none of their concern; they are always open to readers’comments. They always honour their views and try to incorporate them in their forthcoming publications to serve them with more improved quality.

Translation Team They have recently fabricated a team of translator - a collection of brilliant giants of various languages - and very shortly, their publications can be found in different languages of India for the benefit of those readers whose approach is limited to regional languages only. Despite having being established as one of the reputed publishers of India, they keep on trying for more improvement with each passing moment, and are committed to contribute their best to the Publishing Industry and serve their readers with complete dedication and veracity. Their voyage in the ocean of publications and literature has the verisimilitude of ‘and miles to go before I sleep’.

TITLES RULING THE MARKET

Launch of Publications

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SHORT STORY

The Wooden

DRISHTI DASGUPTA SHORT STORY

Windchime

The trees sway to the melody of the blowing wind, which enchants the sight of that big, bright and orange setting sun. As I rest my clumsy and old body over the armchair placed in the balcony of my little cottage, I glance at the wooden windchime with my hazy eyesight that lay hooked by the ceiling. Its melody escorts me to the beautiful reminiscence of my past, the past where I was once young and bright, the past where she was in my sight, and the past where we let our love ripe. It was fifty-six years back when I met an angel who changed my life forever. Who knew she was my soulmate? And who knew what was stored in our fate? I rightly remember the date, when our eyes first met… It was 30th of March 1957; I was twenty-one then. I was off on a trip with three friends of mine to Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. We had planned our stay in the tents provided to the tourists by the local villagers. On the first day, all the guests were informed that they would witness a beautiful folk dance at night with a pure Rajasthani dinner. The clock struck fifteen past eight, when we blissfully rested ourselves on the mattresses arranged over the ground. There began the performance. Five young girls dressed heavily in traditional choli and burdened under heavy ornaments moved with grace and perfection, without any flaw. Amongst those five, a face caught my attention. Her sparkling and supple skin enhanced the beauty of her petal lips and innocent eyes. The smile on her face could lighten millions of dying hearts. My heart thumped with numerous emotions swirling through it. I anxiously waited for the performance to end and when it finally concluded, I rushed towards her in haste. As I got close to her, and drowned into those beautiful and innocent pair of eyes, I felt that she was the most beautiful girl alive on this earth. “You're so beautiful,” I said with my mouth wide open, unable to believe this beautiful creation of God. She looked at me nervously and forced a half smile and walked away. She was scared of talking to a stranger but I didn't want to be a stranger in her life; I wanted to be the one and only one of her life. The night that followed was sleepless, and moved around those few minutes I had seen that angel on earth so closely. The last wish that I cited that moment was to

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see her again the next day. And as it is said, if you wish something with all your heart, the entire universe conspires to fulfill it, the same happened with me. The next morning when I moved out of my tent, I saw those beautiful eyes again. She was smiling and giggling while sitting over a lorry selling wooden toys to the tourists and their kids. Her smile seemed so serene to my heart that I wished to live every moment of my life watching her smile. I happily walked towards her and she smiled at me this time, as if she had known that we would meet again. “Khilone lenge aap?” she asked. Her voice seemed to be the most pleasing melody to my ears. “Haan ji,” I said and searched for something I could buy as an adult. The lorry was filled with wooden toys and sculptures, but my eyes noticed a beautiful masterpiece, a wooden windchime. I pointed towards it and she happily handed it to me saying, “Twelve rupees only”. I fished out the money from my pocket. As I wished this moment would never end, I heard that voice again which elated my heart with joy. “Hoorza ki sawari karenge?” she had asked. I happily agreed to it and later I realized Hoorza was the name of her camel. As she gave me a ride in the camel cart, I had managed to know about her simple life. She was Anita, a seventeen year old girl. She had lost her parents in her early childhood and since then her uncle, a wooden toymaker, was the command in chief of her life. She loved to express herself through dance, and therefore in the evenings, she performed folk dance and traded wooden toys at daytime to make a living. I was surprised when she said that the wooden windchime was made by her; it was the only master piece she had made and I supposed to choose the same wind chime as if my heart knew it was made by my soulmate. She was happy leading a simple life but I wanted it to be perfect, I wanted to hold her hand and never let her go. Those were the days when people were technologically challenged unlike today. I knew if I let go off this moment, I would never see her again. I had decided by then, she was the one I would marry. It was the time to take the cue. Gathering all my courage, I asked, “Will you marry me?” She looked at me in amazement while few pearl dew shimmered in her eyes. May be she had never been loved the way she wanted to be and I had just entered into her life to offer 'that' love. Our silence was doing the talking. Her watery eyes and restless heart beat said it all. She nodded her head in affirmation without looking at me. Aah, my shy little angel she was. I promised to take her away to an all new world, a world where there's happiness and love. Her uncle would have never agreed for our wedding, so we had a better plan. We ran away to Punjab that night. Hoorza dropped us to the station, yes that's funny but she really did. Years passed by and we loved each other with all our heart, understood each other with all our soul. We decorated our small world with lots of joy, love and two beautiful angels, who looked like their beautiful mother. Fifty-six years later, Anita has left me alone and travelled to another destination but I still cherish the memories of togetherness and that wooden wind chime freely sways to the tune of breeze and signifies the time we met, the love we shared, and the relation we lived for all our life.

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RISING STARS

SID BAHRI AUTHOR - THE HOMING PIGEONS SRISHTI PUBLISHERS AND DISTRIBUTORS A hotelier by education, an ex-banker, and a senior executive in the outsourcing industry, Sid gave up a plush career to follow his passions. Based out of Ranikhet, he is now a struggling entrepreneur and a happy writer. A self-proclaimed eccentric, he is an avid blogger who loves to read and cook. Cooking stories is his passion. The Homing Pigeons is his debut novel.

SYNOPSIS In the middle of the catastrophic 2008 recession, Aditya, a jobless, penniless man meets an attractive stranger in a bar; little does he know that his life will change foreverâ&#x20AC;Ś When Radhika, a young, rich widow, marries off her stepdaughter, little does she know the freedom that she has yearned for is not exactly how she had envisioned itâ&#x20AC;Ś They say homing pigeons always come back to their mate no matter where you leave them. The Homing Pigeons is a love story between these two unsuspecting characters as it is of lust, greed, separations, prejudices, and crumbling spines.

Sunill: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? Sid: I was always fond of writing. Even as a child in school, I liked to write, but it never occurred to me that I would want to make it a profession one day. Even while I was writing The Homing Pigeons, it wasn't to get published. I wrote it because I loved to write and it gave me satisfaction. Sunill: How long does it take you to write a book, and what is your work schedule like when you're writing? Sid: Five Years. The Homing Pigeons was started in 2008 but went into hibernation while I was working in a bank and later, in an outsourcing company. I didn't find the time or the inspiration to write until 2012. I revived the book in January 2012 and completed it before June (within six months). I was still in a day job and most of it was written by night and over the weekends. Nowadays, because I'm unemployed, in the traditional sense of the word, I have the flexibility to choose my timings, but it's still largely by night. Sunill: What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? Sid: If you read The Homing Pigeons, you'll realize that my narrative technique is different. In doing so, I feel I can keep the readers engrossed because it changes your mood from chapter to chapter. Also, I feel that humour is a definite part of my writing. I laugh and make people laugh. Sunill: When did you write your first book and how old were you? Sid: There have been many failed attempts at writing a complete novel before this. So, I wouldn't remember when I started writing my first book. I can safely say that I started The Homing Pigeons in 2008 and it's getting published now.

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12 Sunill Kaushik

Sunill: What do you like to do when you're not writing? Sid: There aren't a lot of avenues for entertainment in Ranikhet. So, it is either walking down the mountainside, or cooking, or a quiet evening with family. Sunill: What were your biggest learning experience(s) or surprise(s) throughout the publishing process? Sid: It's been an interesting journey. Initially, I almost felt like I was made in the glass factory. The bigger publishers didn't even acknowledge that I existed or had even sent them a manuscript. Then, Srishti happened. They asked me to re-work the manuscript too but its helped churn out a much better product than what it was initially. So, it just tells me what I knew already –you can't get anywhere without hard work. Sunill: What are the promotional strategies that you and your publisher have applied to promote/market your book? Sid: As a writer, my job is to write. I haven't sold as much as a hairpin in my life; so promotions and marketing don't come naturally to me. However, my publisher says that this is the best book he has ever read, even after publishing 350 titles. I think Dr. . Shashi Tharoor's comments on the book have egged on his confidence. . I try my best to not get involved in these promotions and leave the marketing to them. I did get involved in creating the soundtrack of this book and I think Rishikesh - The band have outdone themselves in capturing the key moods of the book. I know that social media is a very important part of the marketing cycle. I think it finally boils down to content and there is enough in this to keep everyone interested. Sunill: Why did you choose to write in this genre? Sid: It was a story that was close to my heart and I rendered it the best I could. I am not sure if it was an educated choice. If you read The Homing Pigeons, you may realize that even though it is a love story, it's not a mushy romance. Even though it's witty, it's not a comedy. And even though it may be poignant at times, it may leave you laughing. All in all, it cuts across genres. Sunill: Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing etc. come from? Sid: Like a school friend said, “I'm sure he'd have written a fantastic story. He always came up with the best stories for not doing his homework.” But on a serious note, I used to read a lot. It was a hobby that my mother inculcated in me. I was too young to be a member of the library, but she had her way with the librarian in getting me an out of turn membership. So, I read until I thought I could write. I failed miserably. I didn't like the first novel I wrote, so it's never going to see the light of day. Then, the Homing Pigeons got revived and because I was happy with what I had achieved, I sent it for publishing. Sunill: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? Sid: I ran away from goals and targets when I gave up my corporate job. I had seen enough of them in my corporate career. I think what I would like to talk about is purpose, which is different from a goal or an intention. I think the larger purpose to my writing is to give people enough entertainment, while also passing on a message to them which helps them to become better human beings. I am not sure if I have been able to do justice to that purpose in this book, but I'll keep trying. Sunill: So any new project in hand now? Sid: I have the first draft of the sequel ready but it still needs a lot of work. Then there is another book that's midway. I would like to experiment with style of writing and genres, both. I feel that writing is a huge learning process for me .

APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

RISING STARS

HEENASHREE KHANDELWAL

Sunill Kaushik

AUTHOR - SOULMATES, BY CHANCE MAHAVEER PUBLISHERS A software engineer by profession and a writer by passion, Heenashree holds a job that provides her experiences and challenges in day-to-day life. She holds a pen that helps her compile these in the form of a story. She is eager to learn and explore various fields of operations and lines of business that could widen her writing style. Simplicity and humour best describe her character that reflects in her writing as well. According to her,

The compilation of a story Is the result of author's imagination; And the success of that story Is the result of reader's acceptance.

SYNOPSIS A party, a girl, and one drink is all it takes for Rakshit Sharma to lose his priorities and stalk the girl who could have never been his type. An engagement day, a stalker and one kiss is all it takes for Avani Sharma to shatter her integrity and marry Rakshit Sharma who could have never been her dream man. Husband and wifeâ&#x20AC;Śromantically experienced and romantically challengedâ&#x20AC;Śfalling in and out of love. A scandalous past and tough relationship put them at bay but love finds its way back again and again in their lives. Soulmates, By Chance is a beautiful compilation of love, humour and confrontations of married life.

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Sunill: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? Heena: I never thought I would be a writer. I only realised it when I found out that my debut novel Soulmates, By Chance is catching the readers’ interest of the crowd. I still do not consider myself an author but I write because it makes me happy. Sunill: How long does it take you to write a book, and what is your work schedule like when you're writing? Heena: When my mind drives me crazy, I write. And what I write, my mind goes crazy. A good idea in the head only needs a pen and a paper…for me it takes a laptop. It took around 2 years for me to write Soulmates, By Chance. Thankfully, I somehow manage my profession and passion. Sunill: What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? Heena: My writing is always the pursuit of me thinking out of the box. I chose something in its most natural form; it has been reflected in Soulmates, By Chance. To write about married life and insert intimate moments in between had excited and challenged me. I dared to write about something that I never hoped to write or talk about. Once you read the novel, you will figure it out. Sunill: When did you write your first book and how old were you? Heena: I wrote the first book in 2009, 'The Royal Battle', a self-published fantasy short story, when I was in third year of my engineering. I had zero idea about what I was doing but yes, I was excited. Sunill: What do you like to do when you're not writing? Heena: I like to think what to write when I am not writing. lol…kidding. My job takes most of my time. If not that, I am sleeping or watching movies or listening to music. Shopping always takes the priority though. Sunill: What were your biggest learning experience(s) or surprise(s) throughout the publishing process? Heena: There were many experiences. I was in between self-publishing or getting published. Rejections were like I was being rejected from a love proposal. Most of the times I would receive a word to word reply from publication house for rejection and that would make me think twice about whether they read or not. But I improved my writing style as well. The other thing I learned that just being a Software Engineer won't help me with the publicity of the book. I need to learn marketing as well. Sunill: What are the promotional strategies that you and your publisher have applied to promote/market your book? Heena: Not much. I haven't put a great deal of thought into it just yet. Whatever advices I get from my publishers and fellow authors, I apply it for promotion. Inkstudioz helped a lot in the process. Since this is the first book (with ISBN number), I would rather want few good reader's appreciation that would make me write even better. That would be more than I expect. Sunill: Why did you choose to write in your particular field or genre? Heena: I didn't choose any genre. I write what the story demands from me and what I want from it. Soulmates, By Chance isn't exactly a love story but has many interesting events and arguments. It was the demand of the story than a normal love story. a normal love story. It doesn't hold the perception of love as a necessity but a requirement in the married life no matter what his/her past was or future will be. That is who a soulmate is. In future, I wish to write on adventure and mystery. Supernatural…may be. I am working on a story (adventure and thriller) for a long time.

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Sunill: Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing etc. come from? Heena: Having an interesting book in one hand and a cup of tea in the other is the best way to spend time. A good book is like a good friend to me. Though I haven't really read much…time limits. I rarely find any interest in storytelling or blogging the story or screenplays…nothing interests me as much as it interests me to read something like Jane Austen's. I had been a big fan of her contemporary novels. Sunill: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? Heena: Ah…goals…intentions…nasty. I wanted people to believe in marriage as much as I want to believe in it. Just like everyone else, I get the creeps when it comes to marriage but it is something which is inevitable. And with that feeling in my mind, I wanted to believe in soulmates after marriage. I don't know how well it will reach out to people but I would be very glad if it helped anyone out there to nurture one's relationship. If I am successful in helping anyone, my goal is achieved. Sunill: So any new project in hand now? Heena:I want to take a long vacation after this book. If not, I would want to complete my novel on adventure and thriller genre, which needs a lot of work. It is an entirely different concept and has a very interesting and sound script.

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SHORT STORY

Tears... not just drop of water PARUL PARIHAR SHORT STORY

He was waiting desperately for her eyes to open... Moving his hand on her forehead, he could feel the discomfort she was going through... Throughout his life he never gave her the adulation she wanted...that affliction she was pining for was never provided by him... Finally, her hand made a little movement... and her eyes were gently catching the glimpse of the world around her.. She looked at the man sitting adjacent to her bed on a chair with her wet eyes... She made a sign with her anemic hands to remove the oxygen mask from her mouth... He did exactly what she said... Time was running short... he knew that!! "How much time do I have ?" she asked with a deep bemoan in her voice... "You will live..." He answered, refraining humselffrom eye contact. "Did someone tell you that you are a very bad liar...?" She replied with a little smile on her dull face... Her alluring face had turned so ashen over the time... "I want something from you. A last wish and don't say ‘no’ this time. Whenever i leave this world behind and go on a long tour, I want you to read something. Inside my room on my book shelf you will find an old diary with a brown cover. Open it and you will find a letter. That is something i have for you,” she said breathing more massively with every single word she articulated. "I will...you need to sleep now,” he replied consoling her. She closed her eyes with little tears rolling down her cheeks. The man again placed the oxygen mask on her mouth and left the room. APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

SHORT STORY

He walked towards the canteen located in the hospital premises and ordered tea. With every drop of tea that went inside, he felt a strange pain. He did not sleep for many nights and that could be easily made out from his sleep-deprived eyes. He paid the bill and left for the same room. That tea provided no relief to his unstable mind. As he reached the door, a young doctor in his early thirties came out... "I am sorry, sir. We tried but could not save her" he told the man placing his hand on his shoulder... He did not say a word. He did not shed even a single drop of tear. He lost everyone he was related to but his eyes never showed the grief. A true stoic... His numbness killed everyone... He now wanted to fulfill the last promise he made to the late girl... They were living in the same house for last 19 years but the moment he entered her room, it was all so anomalous for him. He never knew this small world existed in his big bungalow... He took out the diary from her shelf. There were many other diaries but he remembered the one with a brown cover. He opened it and there he found the letter. A crumpled one. It looked as if it was written long ago... He started reading it... Dear Sir, I know the time you will receive this letter, I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be with you. My physical presence would not be felt around you anymore. 19 long years and you never loved me. Never adored me... Never pampered me... Every night I cried to have a little space in your heart. But my tears were concealed. My emotions were buried... After my mother left me, all my hopes and longings died too. This cancer did not kill me. I was killed by this emptiness...Every single second i wanted to tell you about my school, my friends, my hobbies... But all my words were left unsaid... I was murdered by your ignorance... I was murdered by this isolation... Love me Dad... Love me... Your late daughter Chaaya He dropped the letter on the floor. Tears started streaming down his face. Tears for the first time... EXPRESSIONS UNLIMITED - A PRODUCT OF INKSTUDIOZ PVT. LTD.

UPCOMING BOOKS

18 HARSHITA SRIVASTAVA

'Sophie Says' After the amazing success of Judy Balan's debut novel 'Two Fates: The Story of My Divorce', she has come up with her second 'Sophie Says'. Let's see what she has to offer this time. Judy writes books, plays, columns, and is now dabbling in screen writing. ‘Sophie Says’ is her second book. Her first book made it into the bestseller list in its first month and will soon be made into a film.

ABOUT THE BOOK

JUDY BALAN

Author: Judy Balan Publisher: Westland

In 30 years, Sophie Tilgum (her preferred version of Thilagam, the last name she was born with) hasn’t been able to sustain a romantic relationship for more than a year. You might call it commitment phobia but Sophie would tell you there is no such thing. Or perhaps there is such a thing, but it's so rare, it's almost an urban legend. Instead, she sincerely believes (and propagates) the idea that some people are just wired to be single... an idea her exes did not appreciate when she decided to have ‘the talk’. So, after years of being made to feel like the bad woman, Sophie has found a way to embrace her seeming emotional shortcomings via her super-popular blog Sophie Says in which she finds her calling as The Breakup Coach. . Enters Ryan. He is everything Sophie is not and thinks her theories are a load of crap. And if things get complicated with Sophie trying to reconcile her burgeoning feelings for Ryan with her radically different views, they spiral out of control and turn her life into a mini soap when Yatan, her If-Someday Guy, enters the scene. It's a classic case of physician-heal-thyself and one wonders if Sophie will emerge out of this drama with her world view intact.

APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

UPCOMING BOOKS

Chakra

: Chronicles of Witch Way

Ritu Lalit dons many hats - she is a keen observer of life, a voracious reader, a parent, a blogger, an author, and also an office worker. The last is most important since it pays her bills! She has written two books, ‘A Bowlful of Butterflies’ published by Rupa & Co and ‘Hilawi’ published by Popular Prakashan, ‘Chakra: Chronicles of the Witch Way’ is her third book.

ABOUT THE BOOK Author: Ritu Lalit Publisher: Author’s Empire

RITU LALIT

They live amongst us, Japas and Japnis who trace their lineage to the Gods. They are endowed with special powers that enable them to use the elements, Earth, Air, Fire and Water to facilitate their lives. They look like us, but their society, their rules and beliefs differ from outs. They belong to a rigid social structure, divided into four clans as per the elements they have the affinity for.

Theirs is a dangerous world where the clans war with each other, a world where clan leaders encourage distrust and mislead their subjects for power and money. It is a world where brother cannot trust brother. It is a world where they worship the Kundalini Ma, their mother goddess but girls are killed. It is a world where their police force acts as private guards for the leaders and oppresses the common people. It is a world which Parineeta Mohan has turned her back on, even though she is a powerful Japni, because she wants to bring her niece and nephew up in a safe and secure environment. It is a world she is forced to return to because her niece and nephew have disappeared, and she must embrace the path she has abandoned, The Witch Way, as it is the only way she can get her loved ones back.

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UPCOMING BOOKS

SMTP

CROREPATITURNS ROADPATI Ashutosh Bhatia is a dashing IT entrepreneur from Jaipur city. From very early years of his life, he has been writing and contributing to various periodicals. He is a great story teller and would take you on an impressive ride through the life of his characters.

ASHUTOSH BHATIA

Ashutosh got his school education from St. Xavier's, Jaipur and later on completed his Master's in Computers from Rajasthan University. This is his first novel and some real happenings have inspired him to write ‘SMTP - Crorepati Turns Roadpati’.

ABOUT THE BOOK Author: Ashutosh Bhatia Publisher: Mahaveer Publishers ‘SMTP - Crorepati Turns Roadpati’ is a story about a young boy Aaryan, who is confused in his life of which way to choose and most of the failures that he faces, lead him to become a successful entrepreneur at a very young age. Aaryan, as a teenager, is ambitious and has big dreams. He was always confused as to which career would get him more money, and moreover, all the comforts of his life. His ideas are mind blowing, but always started by asking money from his father with no aims or results. Sometimes, life has things to decide for you,this story revolves around this young and dynamic boy who becomes a successful entrepreneur, in other terms a 'Crorepati' by his hard work and luck. So many turning points which come after that where due to over trust on few people leads him down the road, where no one wants him to be part of their life and in turn, he becomes a Roadpati.

APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

BOOK REVIEWS ABHILASH RUHELA

SOMEONE LIKE YOU by DURJOY DUTTA – NIKITA SINGH It has been a long time since I have read a book. A week or two. Even when I have my Unit Test exams tomorrow, I read Durjoy Datta/Nikita Singh's ‘Someone Like You’. There's something interesting about these writers. The way Akshay Kumar lines up his movies for 3-4 months consistently, similarly, Durjoy Datta and Nikita Singh do not fail to publish a new book every 4-5 months. Their fans would be the most satisfying fans in this country as they get to read their favourite author every time they just start missing them. There's something interesting about this book too. It is not the way all the books of Durjoy Datta has published. First of all, this book is not by his venture- Grapevine Publication but by Penguin India. He has just made his brand name bigger. This book does not have a very shiny cover page like every book of his. This book is also missing a tag line that every title of his book carries. And the way both the authors have promoted this book is different than the way they usually do. And as I am done reading this book, they have also changed their writing style by leaps and bounds. ‘Someone Like You’ is the story of Niharika Singh, a girl who never thought she is beautiful until she was in school. She didn't exist for boys and other entities whom every girls want to get an attention from. Then her sister- Simran does a whole makeover, which helps Niharika to realize that she is as beautiful as every other girl whom she feels is beautiful than her. She goes to a totally new city for her college. There she meets 3 different boys - Tanmay, Karthik and Akshat. Tanmay ends up being her best friend. Karthik ends up being a mysterious guy in her life about whom she always remain confused. Akshat turns out to be her sister- Simran's ex because of which she it finds weird to date him. Pia turns out to be her room-mate and lately, she also becomes her only friend in this new campus. Tanmay starts falling for Pia. Pia also starts liking him in spite of being in a long distance relationship with Vishal. But, does the book ends with love sagas of all these characters? No!!! It has much more in it. At least 10 times more than what I have described above. I cannot talk about them as I don't want any spoilers in this review. Do read the book to enjoy one of the best works in this genre of fiction. Coming to both the authors first, I must say that Durjoy Datta is finally changing his writing style with every book and delivering something which I always wanted from him rather than the same sex saga that he used to write. His last book ‘Till the Last Breath’ turned out to be one of my favourites and with this one, he has just matured enough. I am just excited for his next book now. As I, myself, blamed him for over-excessive use of sex in his books, his last book didn't have much of it and this one does not have the word itself! I am too happy to witness this change. And as usual, the selection and choice of words that the writer implements in his writing is magical. Just for that, he remains to be my favourite. Coming to Nikita Singh, I didn't like her previous works much but with this one, I can easily say that she has learned quite quickly. I hope she keeps this magic alive and write such character-based stories than sex-related ones. Both have already given that kind of book in bulk to us ; now it’s time to give us such soulful books like ‘Someone Like You’.

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BOOK REVIEWS

Generally, I write the best scenes that I fall in love with while reading a book; but where this book is concerned, it's hard for me to categorize some events than others and term only those as my favourites. Starting from the first word till the last, I was intrigued by the story like anything. It's good that people trusted this book and just on the pre-ordering basis, it has entered the Bestseller's chart at No. 3 below Amish's Shiva Trilogy. Initially, the way Niharika gives her introduction is lovely. Even Simran is described lovingly. I fell in love with both the sisters initially itself. Then the entrance of boys in Niharika's life is shown neatly without any illogical quotients as it normally happens with love stories. This book is not just a love story; it is a purely character-based story where each person has a totally new personality, background, thoughts and approach towards life. How they end up being in a single plot is what makes a reader like me excited to turn pages. Later, the hospital scene gave me thousands of goosebumps. The climax is as beautiful and balanced as the whole book is. The entrance of Pia in the book gives a push to the story in the first half. I.. I... I.... actually can't point such incidents anymore. The whole book is perfect. The second half is something I never guessed that the intense level would be such. Someone has said it right - don't judge a book by its cover page. I would ask all of you to purchase it and keep in your library. Whenever you feel low, just read this book; it works wonders on the mind. But this book also give a message that not everyone can be trusted without much experience and reason nor we should blame someone without knowing all the facts-hidden and obvious. We may never know the gray shades of some, blacks of some and whites of some. I don't know if I should even rate this book but undoubtedly, this is better than most of the books that I have read. I give it 4.75/5. Yes. Believe me. Purchase it right now. And yes, the only drawback that I can pointout is - it lacks humor-filled one liners.

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BOOK REVIEWS

ASTHA SINGH

The Oath of the Vayuputras by Amish Tripathi It is the final book of his Shiva trilogy, which unravels numerous mysteries and enigmas that captivate the minds of the readers leaving them for a little more. Where the second book â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Secret of the Nagasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ends with Shiva meeting his long lost friend Bhraspati in the Naga capital of Panchavati, Vayuputra opens with a strong start leading to the ultimate truth that was long awaited. The Evil has risen and it must be stopped by the forces of the Neelkanth. The dilemma that Shiva faces between, right and wrong and good or evil throughout the trilogy has finally been cracked by his friend who enumerates further on the use of the Somras and its effects on the holy land of Meluha. Shiva and his compatriots face a rather tough time choosing between their kith and kin and their ultimate duty. Amish's brilliant body knowledge about various cultures that includes humongous descriptions of Zorastrinism, Buddhism, and Hinduism proved to play a pivotal role in the success of this novel. Where on one hand many new characters have been introduced in the book, the older ones have also been immensely evolved on the other hand by author. Amish being the highly acclaimed author that he is, manages to portray a larger than life picture which goes beyond reality and realms. The series of conspiracies, plots, tragedies and culmination of mind boggling revelations have been mixed and matched by the author in a splendid manner. His insight in the world of history, mythology and philosophy is highly commendable right from the first book (Immortals of Meluha) with which Amish has managed to grasp the imagination of his very loyal readership for the long books. Inspite of being a book which has proved to be not just a best seller but the ultimate book of the Indian contemporary literary discourse, the text does face issues when it comes to the semantic order. Minute details which includes editing and spelling errors can easily be identified making the writing a wee more sloppy. Another disappointment about this book is the introduction of the actual evil that is Vidyumli because of whom the forces of Shiva unite to fight against it; this is rather a cliche as instead of developing the antagonist in the book and then further elucidating on the plot the text manages to suddenly twirl around the villain. Mentions about the Vayuputras and the great escape of the villain still manage to be a mystery as the book struggles between Shiva's duties and endless other characters which the reader can easily loose pace on. Har har mahadev seemed to have lost its credibility as Shiva, the divine protagonist undergoes emotional crisis towards the end of the book, which eventually leads to the deterioration of many other existing characters. The effulgent Shiva and his voyage in search of truth somewhere loses track as the author has tried to sum up many secrets and revelations with the introduction of numerous characters all in one book, which in a way drains out the reader and leaves them thinking about multiple events. Fate controls on the weak, the strong mould the providence they want. In spite of some minor issues and a wavering climax to the story the book, still manages to leave a major impact on the readers in order to decipher meanings for themselves from the text, leaving you with multiple unanswered questions and reasoning which only indicates that god resides in everyone. This book appeals to the younger as well as the older and much more intellectual audience in spite of being a book based on mythical characters only because it gives India a superhero of its own who travels beyond realms in search of truth with references given by the author that are appropriate and chronologically correct. From hints of brahmanical cultures to major historical occurrences, Amish hasn't sacrificed with the actual spice that he wished to intercalate in his book. I could have gone further and talked much more about the development of various other characters and the climax but that would rather be harsh as being a staunch Shaivaite myself, I couldn't do injustice to the great Shiva - our own desi superhero. Har Har Mahadev. Jai Bhole! APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

World Of Words Isn't it amazing how a whole world is presented in a bunch of papers filled with black ink and bound together to mesmerize you?

I don't remember since when I started reading, but it was before I started writing. The immeasurable might that the words hold is truly magical. When you are reading something, the world around you changes into a mythical place where shadows are not afraid of darkness, where love floats in a boundless ocean, where the first atoms and eons of a creation comes together and create an entire new world. Perhaps, books are a doorway to a mythical world from where the inherent creations of this world started. Where the unexplained logic of creation took place and first stirrings of the living entities started. It's quite like walking the same path that you walked till now, but backwards so that you can know the origin of the path. You don't know what you are going to find, which trails you will follow, but still you keep walking. Maybe for the sacred reason of looking at your innerself or for any ordinary reason that you will never discuss. There is no exact science to tell why people like to read; even if there is one, I don't want to know about it. For me, books are the only way to understand the creations that's been unexplored since ages. It is more of a law of nature that I don't want to challenge. I don't know for how long I will keep reading, but it will be nothing less than forever. Because there will always be another place left to be explored, another world to imagine, another creation to instantiate, another story of human struggle, another tale of miserable lives of realistic people, another mystery that is waiting to be resolved, another feeling of love, hatred and betrayal to feel. Another universe, ready to absorb me. Another book, another writer. So what are you reading now?

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ANJIT SHARMA

aka CRESTLESS WAVE

POET’s CORNER

25 She ain't the same anymore With expectations Came her discontents No one knows whom her wrath is for No, She ain't the same anymore With beauty Came her hauteur No one knows how many hearts she tore No, she ain't the same anymore With talents Came her indomitability No one knows if any flaws she bore And I asked her if she has changed I wondered if times had her feigned And pondered if destiny had this arranged That those attributes she reigned She answers as I, on her, did pore “With sufferings Came my existence Oh Yes, I am not the same anymore.”

N O T AN

YMO RE SAN HITA

BAR UAH

APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

POETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CORNER

And It's finally slipping away, As much as I Tried to Keep It Alive. Time is Playing its Part, The Distance is Making Me Fade! Feeling crushed, my soul aches, My heart, Bleeds from Past Mistakes. Can't Stop the Tears, They Fall like Rain, Your Words Echo Around My Brain. Argument after argument, Obsession, It Piles up into Long Depression. And then I Feel I'm stuck In a world full of Questions? Each way I turn, Another Wall Now its been hard to think at all, This feeling/emotion haunts my Soul Seems I'm dead, I've lost all Control. Ego, hatred, jealousy-can't We give them Up? Need Only a Bit of Love to Scrub. Can't We Sacrifice for Our Beloved? I Think Its Better to be Unloved.

E V LO

! S E H AC I H T A P I R T K E H S I H B A

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ANOTHER WORLD OF LITERATURE – COMIC INDUSTRY

RUDRAMATSA ENTERTAINMENT PVT. LTD. Original content producer, comics publisher, Rudra Matsa Entertainment Private Limited is a leading original content production house already in the process of producing five feature-length movies. RME has strategic production partnerships with Disney and Turner Broadcasting System. It has produced animation ‘Pandavas 5’ that had been aired on Disney XD and Hungama TV. Using the latest technologies and with highest level of expertise backed by an outstanding team of advisory members, RME is creating quite a buzz in the animation circuit. The fully loaded studio is the final destination for turning animation dreams in to well produced, directed and released realities. With an ambitious team heading RME, it is one of the few studios to be backed up by a strong production team and be aided by an education arm in the rigorous areas of VFX, 2D and 3D. RME thrives on a vanguard of professionals that are driven by creativity; yet at the same time, have the business acumen to gain a strong foothold in the animation and media industry. Adhering to current market influences, the studio creates content that moves by the current trend and caters to a larger audience.

MAN BEHIND RME RUDRA MATSA CEO, Rudra Matsa Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.

A graduate of Heart Animation Academy, Rudra started his career in character animation. Over last twelve years, his stint as Animation Expert continued in Services space, catering services to American, Canadian and European clientele, Including Turner Broadcasting system. Prior to setting up successful IP houseRME, Rudra has helped many brands in Animation Training Space, like Picasso and Race Animation College. With a mix of solid expertise in IP/product development and powerful market intelligence, he inked deals with Disney/BVI and TBSAP. He played a pivotal role in introducing exciting new style ‘Indian Anime’ through P5, produced in broadcast partnership with Disney and Buena Vista International What was the idea behind starting P5 as comic book? One of the key concepts about introducing P5 in Comics format was to fill the gap of not having Manga comics in India. In Japan, you have that trend, and there are magazines dedicated to publish Manga. Here unfortunately, we don't have that culture. So, we went ahead with Animation Reporter and introduced P5 comics through Syndication route, which has received fabulous response. We have been supplying content to AR since August 2011. That led us into publishing P5 comics in volumes and collection edition formats.

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APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

ANOTHER WORLD OF LITERATURE – COMIC INDUSTRY Sunill Kaushik

Why did you choose the comic book industry of all things as your P5 was already a hit on Disney XD? It's not just Comics alone we are looking at; to start with derivatives, we launched comics. We have plans to cover merchandising area soon. Comics play a huge role when it comes to compelling storytelling. Also in my opinion, comics like P5 can be a great experience to read it in comics' format. We see demand going high and people have been asking for comics' format. In many cases, parents showed interest to have their kids read content like P5, which is inspired by adventures of Pandavas at pre-teens level with Indian nativity. With each ComicCon participation, acceptance of P5 has been increasing rapidly; so, we introduced special collection edition at Delhi ComicCon in Feb this year. Also it makes sense to build brand equity through comics, which might not become super successful overnight. So what were your initial challenges? Apart from regular issues of funding and securing deal with Disney, we found writing was a definite and initial challenge, and finding writers with Anime/Manga understanding was biggest challenge. Then finding a right team who can design and animate Anime characters was also another tough challenge we faced. Most of the Indian animators and character designers are inspired by American animation style of technique and storytelling. When you say do Anime, they won't be able to deliver the look and feel of Anime. It took quite some time to figure out the structure to achieve this. Also you need to understand the importance of camera play and composting when it comes to Anime. If you don't get it right there, you won't get it at all. How is P5 different from other Indian comic? And why specifically manga style? I would not compare with any other titles, as genres are completely different. I think probably this is the first dedicated comics roll out with Anime look. People have been copying that model already. And on choosing Manga/Anime look, I think Anime suits like anything for Shonen ‘Boys Action’ concepts like P5 with heavy action scenes involved. And I am an avid fan of Anime; so naturally, I would love to explore on Anime and Manga front. What future do you see of Comic/Graphic Novel industry in India? As a publisher, I personally feel comics readership has been growing over the last 5 years. Consumers are spending on entrainment. So readership going to increase in Comics/Grpahic novel space. But again, question would be which platform you are looking at. I think online readership would replace print format eventually, if not completely. Practically, another biggest challenge a comics developer or publisher would face is distribution. There is no tangible distribution channel available. After studying market for months, we decided to establish our own distribution network. And most of the distributors are clueless about comics in India. So there are not ready to embrace products in this category. Also costs involved are too high in both development and distribution. And recovery is relatively too slow with trade discount going up to 50% and additional establishment costs distributors seek. Establishing nationwide distribution is a big challenge. This practice has to change, and it is a must to understand the market and the players to choose right partners for distribution.

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APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

WINNER FOR APRIL CONTEST

PHOTOGRAPH BY: NIKHIL ARYA Event: Book Launch of India's Biggest Coverup Date: February 10, 2013

NEXT ISSUE CONTEST THEME:

NATURE

Send your entries at contest.inkstudioz@gmail.com latest by May 20, 2013 EXPRESSIONS UNLIMITED - A PRODUCT OF INKSTUDIOZ Pvt. Ltd.

APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS

I WISH

SOMEONE STILL TOLD ME There is a voidas large as the sky, as dark as the night, and as blank as an empty page in a book full of letters. There is an emptiness cloaking me with its vacuum. I wriggle in pain, I writhe in hopelessness and I twist and turn at the futility of my emotions. One day, the void may seem to have filled up once again – but the emptiness shall remain forever…

A VOID NEELAM CHANDRA

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I wish someone still told me I was still beautiful Those artistic eyes, Those soft lips, Those rosy cheeks, Those arched brow Now tell a tale of sorrow Those pretty smiles, Have gone away miles They no longer adorn my face, they no longer add to the grace. I wish someone still told me I was still beautiful Worried to walk out alone, All I can remember is my moan and groans Covered in a veil, my face all weak and pale Thousand faces my eyes meet, but no one bothers to greet. My face scares them off, all they do is taunt and scoff. Do I deserve a life like this... I wish someone still told me this That ‘I was still beautiful’ Wherever I go no respite for my woe Same people and the same questions I find The world around me is blind and unkind They can no longer see What it feels to be me. I wish someone had the eyes to see The beauty behind the scars in me I wish someone still told me this ‘I was still beautiful’

CHITRA NAIR APRIL 2013 ISSUE 1

“Success is simple. Do what's right, the right way, at the right time but doing it every time qualitatively is something that should be aimed. I wish your entire team repetitive success, parties, and lots of love. Best of luck and bring out shining colours for others to witness!” – Sudeep Nagarkar, Author of ‘That's The Way We Met’

"I wish your team all the best for future endeavours. Cheers!" - Sami Ahmad Khan, Author of ‘Red Jihad’

My warm and heartiest wishes to Expressions for a glorious journey of literature. Today, there are many magazines but I wish Expressions to be the best magazine among all of them and to be a remarkable turning point in the scope of literature. - Dharanee Upeka Weerasekara, Author of ‘From Bermuda to Universe’

I congratulate the Ink Studioz team for launching ’Expressions Unlimited’, an online magazine that will target every segment of authors and readers. It is a wonderful initiative, which will not only allow the readers to get to know more about their favourite authors, upcoming books, and genuine reviews, but will also help budding authors to reach greater audience. I wish Inkstudioz and the entire team of ‘Expressions Unlimited’ the very best.

Your attempt to do something new in literary world is truly commendable; this work is one of its kind. I am sure you guys will try your best and do wonders with ‘Expressions’. Your wondrous time has already begun; your once upon a time is now. I wish team ‘INKSTUDIOZ’ and ‘Expressions’ all the luck and love. Best Wishes! –Arpit Vageria, Author of ‘Chockolate Sauce-Smooth.Dark.Sinful’

- Rohit Sharma Author of ‘Te Amo... I Love You’ My best wishes are with InkStudioz and his young team for ‘Expressions Unlimited’...you people gonna rock...Waiting for the launch…All the best -Subhasis Das, Author of ‘Mom Says No Girlfriend’

It is great a magazine like this has been started that showcases authors and books. With so many talented people behind it, I'm sure it will be a huge success! - Ashwina Garg, Author of ‘Spicy Bites of Biryani’

Expressions is a brilliant move to connect literary people and bring them under one roof. My best wishes to the whole team and wish that through this magazine, you can find talent as well as bring out and honour people who have contributed to the field of literature. Rachit Bhushan, Author of By ‘Losing You I Found How Much I Needed You’

BECOME A PART OF EXPRESSIONS UNLIMITED Send your Articles, Suggestions, Poems to inkstudio2012@gmail.com Copyright@Inkstudioz. 2013