Q.1 What inspires you to write?
A1. What inspires me to write is the concept that love conquers all. This encompasses not only romantic love but also the bond between a parent and a child, siblings, friends, and family.
Q.2 Tell us more about the book.
A2. In my books, the story revolves around two individuals, Yuvaan and Inayat, who first meet as children but are separated by a cruel twist of fate. As one of them grows up, he builds his life around the belief that the other is still alive and that they will reunite someday. Meanwhile, the other has completely forgotten their past together.
The narrative delves into the relationship dynamics between Yuvaan and Inayat, as well as their interactions with friends and family during their childhood, which are altered by an unfortunate accident. Despite the challenges they face, the story is ultimately about hope and selfless love. It explores how these forces not only bring Yuvaan and Inayat back together after 15 years but also heal their families in the process.
Q 3. Given the complex publishing process in India, what was your experience?
A3. I reached out to publishers based on their social media ads and my instincts. After comparing publishing costs and services offered, I ultimately chose Paper Towns.
It took multiple conversations and a patient understanding of my vision before I entrusted Paper Towns with my labor of love. Despite the time it took, my dream of publishing a book finally came true!
Q 4. If your book was adapted into a movie, what would be your dream casting?
A4. I think Sara Ali Khan has the range to play the sweet, vivacious, emotional Inayat and Siddharth Malhotra’s personality suits the calm, Sauve, charming Yuvaan to the ‘T’.
Q. 5. If you were to re-create the ending of one book, which book that would be and what would you change?
A5. If I were to reimagine the ending of a book, it would be “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”, specifically focusing on the death of Professor Snape. I’ve always felt that Snape and Harry were deprived of a proper, open, and exclusive parent-child relationship.
Q6 Describe your writing process.
A6. My writing process is characterized by flexibility and organic evolution. When an idea strikes, I start by visualizing the ending, providing a solid anchor for the narrative. Then, I meticulously craft the backgrounds of my main characters, ensuring depth and authenticity. As I start writing, I allow the story to unfold naturally, one chapter at a time, without adhering to a fixed schedule. I write when inspiration strikes, letting the story flow at its own pace.
Occasionally, I encounter moments of inspiration that lead to revisions or even the deletion of previously written chapters as the characters’ backstories evolve. At times, I may have a clear vision for the content of the next chapter but struggle with the connecting chapters. During these periods, I engage in various activities like reading, watching shows, or listening to music to keep my mind occupied and receptive to new ideas.
In essence, my writing process prioritizes authenticity and creativity, embracing the fluidity of storytelling while allowing ample space for inspiration and exploration.
I also make sure that my characters are strong, behave rationally, and remain true to themselves, till the end.
Q 7 What genres or topics do you enjoy writing about the most?
A7. I like crafting fictional love stories where protagonists defy all odds to attain their happy ending.
Q 8 Are there specific messages or feelings you hope your readers take away from your story?
A8. I aim to leave my readers feeling uplifted and content by the end of my book. Through my stories, I hope to emphasize the significance of familial support, even amidst differing thoughts or beliefs. I want to highlight the importance of open communication and respecting other’s opinions and space.
Q 9 Last book you read that made you cry.
A9. The last book that made me cry was Amish’s “Sita – The Warrior of Mithila.” It depicted a powerful woman raised by her adopted father to inherit the kingdom. She commands her army as skillfully as she navigates the court politics. Alongside her sister and female cousins, she’s taught to have her own opinions and challenge injustice. They’re portrayed as princesses who stand as equals with their partners, and not mere accessories to their husbands.
When we think of Sita, we often envision her as sweet and soft-spoken, the devoted wife of Lord Ram. However, her strength and perseverance in times of adversity are often overlooked. Sita refuses to be used as an excuse or justification for others’ actions. She consistently stands up for herself and her dignity, calmly presenting her case and making decisions for herself, without resorting to anger or shouting.
In a society that has long portrayed Sita as subservient and expected women to emulate that image, encountering a Sita who stands tall, proud, ambitious, and demands equality, evoked emotions I didn’t know were buried within me.
Q 10 Describe a lesser-known aspect of Payal.
A10. I am an introvert who prefers the comfort of my own home.
Buy the book : https://www.amazon.in/Because-You-Payal-Mathur/dp/8119455193
