- What inspired you to write Operation Morya?
Sometimes, a seed appears out of the blue, sparks your imagination and voila, a story is born. Something similar happened with OPERATION MORYA. We were on the rooftop café of the VIACOM 18 building in Mumbai, waiting for our turn to present the next episode of the series CHAAL SHEH AUR MAAT on Colors TV. As we awaited our turn to meet the Channel’s Creative Head, I observed the flights taking off every 40-50 seconds from the nearby Mumbai International Airport. In fact, I saw a bird almost hitting the plane as it took off, and I wondered, what if it was a missile instead of a bird and what if the
aeroplane was carrying an Indian VIP? And that is how I got the seed idea for OPERATION MORYA.
2. The book blends technology, espionage, and real-world events. How did you
research these elements?
I have worked closely with CFDS( Centre for Futuristic Defense Studies) under the MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India) for their 3D Military Visualization tools and LIDAR scanning techniques using Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies. This gave me tremendous insight into the workings of our intelligence machinery and helped me blend technology and espionage into the narrative of OPERATION MORYA. Apart from this, I am also a bit of a history nerd, and I have also written documentaries. I have been collecting data on terror attacks on India ever since the 26/11 terrorist attack, and 90% of incidents that you see in OPERATION MORYA have actually happened but in different time frames.
3. How did you develop the character of DRAGO? Is he inspired by any real-life
figures?
DRAGO as a character is a tribute to our unsung heroes from the intelligence community, whose names you may never hear but who quietly go about their jobs so that the citizens of India can sleep peacefully. He embodies valour and sacrifice, and through him, I draw continuous inspiration. With Operation Morya, I hope to shine a light on these warriors who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition or praise. While DRAGO is not directly inspired by any single real-life figure, his character is shaped by the collective spirit of countless brave individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting the nation.
4. What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
The most challenging part of writing Operation Morya was striking the right balance between fact and fiction. Since the story revolves around a sensitive topic involving national security and a potential attack on Mumbai’s BARC nuclear research facility, I had to ensure that the narrative was thrilling and realistic without revealing any classified information or compromising security details. However, the most challenging part was the climax, where I wanted it to be unbelievable yet achievable. With the current scheme of things, I have managed to do that, and once you read it, you will realize that what I have
5. Your book hints at cyber warfare and modern terrorism. What message do you
hope readers take away?
Through Operation Morya, I hope readers gain a deeper understanding of the evolving nature of modern threats, including cyber warfare and terrorism. In today’s interconnected world, conflicts are no longer limited to traditional battlefields—they’re fought in the digital realm, impacting national security and daily lives in unprecedented ways. I want readers to realize the importance of vigilance, not just from our intelligence agencies’ point of view but also from citizens’ point of view, who must stay informed and resilient.
6. Do you think fiction like Operation Morya can raise awareness about real-world
threats?
Absolutely. Fiction like Operation Morya can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about real-world threats. By weaving a thrilling narrative around cyber warfare and modern terrorism, the story makes complex security challenges more relatable and understandable for readers. Fiction can spark conversations, inspire curiosity, and motivate readers to learn more about the realities. In fact, just last week, there was an intelligence alert about terrorists planning to blow up PM Modi’s Airplane, and that scenario is exactly what I have explored in the climax of Operation Morya.
7. Do you have any favourite thrillers or authors that influenced your writing?
Absolutely! I’ve always been inspired by masters of the thriller genre like Frederick Forsyth and Robert Ludlum. Their ability to weave intricate plots with profound political and espionage undertones has greatly influenced my approach to storytelling in Operation Morya. Frederick Forsyth’s attention to detail and realism, especially in The Day of the Jackal, taught me the importance of thorough research and authenticity. John le Carré’s complex characters and moral ambiguity shaped my approach to developing DRAGO and the other key players in the story. These authors showed me how thrillers can be intellectually stimulating while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I have aspired to achieve that same balance in Operation Morya.
8. What can readers expect from you next? Is there a sequel in the works?
My next in line is a Historic Fiction titled- “ THE SARASWATI CODE “- It is Mackenna’s Gold meets Mahabharat, on the forgotten banks of the River Saraswati. The same River Saraswati, whom everyone has heard about but nobody has ever seen.
As for OPERATION MORYA, well, this is just the beginning; DRAGO will be back with his quick thinking and swash-buckling action, where he once again tries to pull off an impossible job. The story will unfold in NEW DELHI, and stakes will be even higher, with new adversaries and complex geopolitical dynamics coming into play during the G 20 World Summit, hosted during the ongoing Ram Lila festivities of Delhi.
So, stay tuned—DRAGO’s journey has just begun!
