AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Interview with Devika Das, author of "Mind Game"

Greeting mam,

Let me begin my first question

Can you tell us about yourself?

I am working for an IT Company and an author and a theatre artist by passion

When did you first start writing?

I began with writing poems at the age of 13

Do you remember what you wrote first?

Yes. It was a small rhyme. But I cherish my first poem that was published in Hindustan Times titled 'For Those At Kargil'.

How did you get the interest in writing?

It happened by chance. I was more inclined to stage performances like dance and dramatics. But, suddenly I happened to pen down few lines that rhymed as well. I used to write a diary too.

Who are your favourite authors? Why?

Ruskin Bond, Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, R K Narayan, Rabindranath Tagore, Jhumpa Lahiri, Enid Blyton

Tell us about your book mam

The Mind Game is a self-improvement book that talks about developing Emotional Intelligence. In this fast-paced life today, we hardly take some time off the rat race and focus on our personal well-being. I think both physical and mental health are important for leading a happy life.

What is the purpose of writing this book?

I want to tell people that there are good times and bad times in your life. You must learn to accept your current emotional state and cherish the small joys of life. Life is given once, live it to the fullest.

What or who inspired you to write on this concept?

I used to read a lot in the newspapers about children committing suicides due to peer pressure. This motivated me to study WHO reports on Mental Health which made me realize that stress and depression is becoming the silent killer of the modern youth. Reasons are many including less human interactions, nuclear families, more time spent on social media, peer pressure created by Facebook/Twitter etc.

What all research did you do to wirte about emotions and feelings?

I read research reports of World Health Organization to understand the scenario of mental health over the globe. I also read journals published by NIMHANS. Mostly, I have recorded the lessons that I have learned from my personal experiences.

How supportive were your family durinh this phase?

My parents were not aware about this venture. It is only halfway writing the book I told my mother about the concept. She supported me but was also concerned that it should not have a negative impact on me.

What all hardships did you come across while writing this book?

During my research, I used to go through my low moments after reading about the kind of pressure people are undergoing. Then, it also made me realize the importance of Gratitude. Now, I feel thankful about my experiences, good or bad.

Do you write fictions too?

Is this your debut book?

This is my 2nd novel and 5th publication overall.

If no, please tell us about your other books.

7 Vows of Marriage, a novella I self published in 2016 to express my views on the institution of marriage. Reminiscence is a collection of poems published by Blue Rose. 2 short stories have been featured in Undo and String in the Garland respectively

How do you feel when you write?

I feel comfortable when I write. There is no pressure of any sort. I feel I express my thoughts better when I write.

What are your other hobbies?

Dramatics, cooking, reading, traveling and listening to music

How was your publishing journey with blue rose publishers?

The experience with Blue Rose has been good so far. I have no complaints at all. They have supported at each stage of my author journey.

Where can readers connect to you?

I am active on Facebook page (authordevika) or on Instagram (@authordevika

Few words you would like to say to your readers.

I would like to receive honest feedback from you about my writings. The audience feedback is of immense value to me. So, connect with me and let's talk.

Finally, few words of advice for the upcoming writers?

Write freely and do not have any apprehensions regarding the audience response. Just believe in your script. Secondly, you must write daily to maintain a consistent flow of thoughts and uniform writing style.

Thank you for your time mam... All the best for your future endeavors..