Anuradha is working in the field of academics from past 18 years. She has worked in a variety of schools across India as an English Language teacher, along with an experience of working in Nalanda University. She is also an avid blogger and writes from her heart at www. anuradhastringsofmyheart.com Being alumni of Fergusson college, Pune and a post graduate in English Literature and then working as a teacher; writing poems, travelogues, articles and then a novel came naturally to her. As an army officer wife, she has experienced and explored India from North to South and East to West as India’s true citizen. Though a Punekar by birth, she loves every moment of her wandering life and calls herself as the new age gypsy. A mother of two boisterous boys and a charming lady wife of a serving officer, a teacher and a writer, she wears all these varied caps with élan.
What inspires you to write the book?
Social evil spread rampant made me restless and that restlessness made me write a story of triumph of good over evil that too a battle waged by a woman who had nothing extraordinary about her, just will to eradicate evil from society and save her brethren.
How did publishing your debut novel “The Mysterious Widows of Mehboobpura†change your process of writing?
I am even more motivated, more responsible and disciplined. Of course since I have gone through the process once now I know the do’s and don’t of the craft.
What is the main thing you want readers to take away from this book?
The central idea of the book that social evils like drugs and other things which can finish a complete generation, a healthy society should be curbed and finished at all costs, it is possible to fight against it at your level, individually as well and it should be done by each and everyone of us.
What are your hobbies, passion other than writing?
Other than writing I enjoy travelling, listening to music and of course I read a lot.If I have a good book in my hand then I forget everything else.
Do you recall the first ever book/novel you read?
Yes, I was very small then, mere 3 year old. My father got me an illustrated dictionary with amazing illustrations to describe the word, along with an interesting sentence. I kept that book with me for longest time. It was part of my childhood memories. I lost it somewhere when we changed our house.
What does your writing/reading space look like?
My writing place is very quiet, calming. I have made it in a corner of my bedroom. I write at the study table gifted by my hubby. I enjoy sitting there reading, thinking.
What are your top three favorite books of all time?
The top three books which I can again and again read are Gone with the Wind, The Hungry Tide and The Kite Runner
Do you pen down revelations and ideas as you get them, right then and there?
Yes, I try my level best to jot down new ideas, phrases, sentences or revelations as soon as I get them, I usually write it in my mobile itself, or on a piece of paper whatever I can get at hand.
What does literary success look like to you?
Success is a very subjective feeling. It changes according to the perception of a person. For me, my book getting published, gives me a stupendous feeling for the main reason that words do not have death. Words change into knowledge and will always float in this worldly space.
How did you feel when the publisher accepted your draft for the first time ?
The idea of the novel was revolving in my head for quite sometime, it was crystal clear in my head. When it got accepted by the publisher though, i gave a contented sigh, as it was a first sign that now the book is on its way for publishing.
Tell us something interesting that has occurred since you became a writer?
It is overall a good feeling, when people read my book and come up to me or call me to tell that they enjoyed it thoroughly. This feeling that I can give a good story to people, and people can take something out of it , gives a high.
One character from your books, that you like the most?
Though the character of the main protagonist Ira is very impressive. I like the character Jagtar for his struggle, the ups and down that he goes through.
What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?
The chapter where Ira visits the pind with Nimrat. I wanted to make it very interesting. I myself was on edge while writing it, as the words were tumbling off my fingers so fast, it was thrilling writing it down.
What is that dream goal you want to achieve before you die?
To write stories of varied genre, unique characters, thrilling plots, engaging narrative and reach widest number of readers.
A message for aspiring writers?
Write from your heart, tell a story which you must.
It was really a privilege interviewing you. Hope you enjoyed the interview.
Thank you!!
Here are some of links via you can contact Anuradha-
Write to her at anuradhasingh78@yahoo.com
Links to buy her books-
