AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Roopa Somasundaran, the author of the crime mystery novel "Rise in Love" is an eminent lawyer and a lovable radio jockey. And not to forget a wonderful writer.. Let's know more about her in the following interview.

Hello Roopa,

How are you and how was your day?

I'm doing good and my day is always good. I firmly believe that everything is good and everything is for good. Hence, I'm always good (laughter).

A short introduction about yourself please.

I'm a person who lives life to the fullest and does not leave any stone unturned in helping others. This quest to discover myself and probing deeper into the realm of my existence has made me evolve as a writer, dancer, lawyer, radio jockey, healer. There are still many more miles to go before I sleep. ..

Can you share your experience as an RJ?

I'm a radio jockey with FM Rainbow for Western music. I've been with the station since the last 8 years. I cherish every moment of my show and have build a matchless connection with my listeners. It is a medium that upholds a direct connection of the heart and soul. Even in my shows I spread the message of love, goodness and righteousness. One of my listeners is Dr. JK Banerjee, whose book 'Memoirs of a Rural Surgeon' was launched by the then President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. We have never met in the last 8 years but are still in touch till date.

Wow. That's great.

Music has its own effect on the mind and soul. I simply act as a medium to connect it with the listeners. My show is called ' Matchless Music Hour on Sunday mornings 9 am.

I highly recommend everyone to listen to her soulful music.

How do you manage your time for all these? I mean for all your activities like dance, writing, healing and being an RJ?

Yoga, Pranayama and Sudarshan kriya. In life responsibilities cannot be reduced nor time to execute the responsibilities be increased. Hence, it's wiser to increase the energy levels and that is possible through yoga, pranayama and Sudarshan kriya.

When did you start writing?

As young as 7 years old. My first poem at the age of 7 was published in The Statesman (Kolkata) and in two years my second poem was published in the Telegraph newspaper.

How did you feel that time?

I felt fine but my parents were excited and ordered copies of the newspapers. They framed it and it's adorning my wall. I remember it all distinctly and I was very calm

Who has been your inspiration?

Agatha Christie and Jane Austen

Do you prefer self publishing or traditional publishing?

I prefer Self publishing because I'm venturing into starting a niche magazine, hopefully with Blue Rose, on art, music and literature but traditional publishing is also essential in getting a 'name to sell' in the market

What is your favourite genre?

Mystery

If you were given an opportunity to live as your favorite character, which book's character would you choose?

Erin Brokovich, Jane Eyre

Why did you choose that?

These women were independent thinkers unfettered by societal rules. Their attitude upheld self-respect and intelligence unlike the usual perception of objectified women. They were contrarians and paved the path of liberation for many generations to come.

If something in this world was for free what would be your choice?

Actually, all the good things in life are already free

That was a nice reply

Tell us about your book Roopa.

Rise in Love is inspired from Shakespeare's Othello, where Desdemona lives. It's based on true events and how a battered woman can rise up to live a life of dignity. It is inspired from a true story and shows that how every individual can emerge out of any adverse situation on their own with the blessings of God.

Your views on love and relationship?

Love is in giving. Demand destroys it. The more you give, the more you get. Relationships are also the same. It stays if you allow 'love to be love' and not confine it in 'relationship'.

Is there any heart touching incident in your life?

There are many heart touching incidents. The recent being the death of my father. He died peacefully and his death has made me probe deeper into the realms of spirituality and selfless service. I just want to dedicate my life into selfless service.

Which one word do you think suits you the best?

Guru-Vishesha

What would you like to say to your readers?

Leave a legacy behind. As Sri Sri says, your skills are for benefit of others. You are here to serve.

What would be your advice for the upcoming writers?

Do not write for narrating a story. Write to instill values through stories.

Where can readers find your writings?

They are available in all leading bookstores and online portals like amazon, flipkart, shopclues, kindle etc.

Where can readers contact you?

They can contact me at 7838031971 or visit me at 703, tower C6, SRS Residency, Sector 88, Greater Faridabad-121002, Haryana

Thank you Roopa, It was a wonderful experience talking to you..

All the best for your future endeavours.