What inspired you to write It’s okay to fail, my son?
Vasant Kallola: ‘It’s okay to fail, my son’ is reflection of my immense love and concern for well-being of my son, Viraj. I saw his struggle for success during 10th and 12th standards of his studies. Through this book, I wanted to convey the message that, one failure is not end of the world; one can always learn from mistakes and aim towards excellence. One need not feel stressed while attempting for success, but feel happy, relaxed and confident about the outcome. In our endeavours for success, we need to focus on the process and not the outcome.
The part where Mr. Bhattacharya breaks down is a really impressive one. Have you experienced same kind of character in your real life?
Yes. I drew inspiration from one of my teachers during my school days. He had lost his only son despite of having offered his own kidney in a hope of son’s survival. Though I was very young at that time, I could still feel the sadness and pain of a helpless father who had lost his only ward in the fight against a disease.
Your book is very inspiring. Should it be sent to school-leaders for getting an idea on how to make studies interesting?
Certainly. As a matter of fact, many schools have bought book in bulk with a purpose to distribute among all those who are associated with studies and well-being of students. Frankly speaking idea is good and worth implementing.
How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?
Not much, except it has made me aware of the process of publishing, do’s and don’ts for the story and its manuscript. I have also become aware of the challenge of reaching out to the readers which is tough in today’s world where readers are flooded with information and they are bit confused with regard to selecting the right content for reading.
When is your next book expected? What is it about?
My next book is ready for launch somewhere around 2nd week of February in the current year. It is also a novel with a different genre. Its title is ‘CHIRANJIVI’ and it highlights the struggles and journey of an ordinary man, Govind, who is on a mission to save millions of lives when a powerful sage decides to annihilate the earth. The sage is so powerful that a normal human being cannot even touch him. I have adopted a different writing style, which will give feeling as if watching a movie to the readers.
Do you plan to write in a different genre later on?
I believe in giving best reading experience to my readers. After my National Best Seller, ‘It’s okay to fail, my son’, an emotional story of a father – son relationship, I wanted to write something which is grand, adventurous and intriguing. ‘Chiranjivi’ just falls in that category, which I am sure would be loved by the modern readers.
What is the most difficult part for an author to write and publish?
To write on something which will interest and excite readers is most challenging part, particularly in today’s times, where readers are bombarded with information.
Do you think Indian mainstream writing needs a classical revival?
Writers need to offer varieties of genres and subjects to the readers, which besides entertainment also help readers in widening their knowledge base and outlook towards life. I am seeing many popular writers having decided their own genres based on past experiences and they tend to create their work in pre-decided genres. I do not wish to take names, but one can understand whom I am referring to.
