Shilpi Chaklanobis: You started writing books with thriller and romance novels. After that came your very successful mythological novels and now you have again written a romantic book for Juggernaut. My question to you is, which one (genre) do you enjoy writing the most and why?

Usha: Thank you, Shilpi, for the interesting question and for featuring me on your blog. Here’s my answer: As copywriter and Creative Director in advertising agencies, I have written for a variety of clients and products, writing in different styles and using diverse approaches. This experience has equipped me to portray contemporary Chennai and Mumbai as well as timeless Kailasa and Vaikunta. The challenge of creating a different world each time has kept my creative juices flowing and staved off boredom. Another factor that has helped me is that I have always been a keen observer of people, their behaviour and speech patterns. Also, as an avid reader since childhood, I devour thrillers, romances and fantasy, preferably ones that are laced with humour and a touch of the absurd. All these have helped me write easily, whatever the genre, keeping in mind the commonalities in every genre: a sound plot, arresting characters, riveting dialogue and a breathtaking finale.

However, I must confess to a partiality for mythology, as these stories have everything in them – romance, adventure, mega battles, magic and eternal truths that help us navigate the challenges of modern life. In ‘Prem Purana,’ it was exciting to unite Ganesha with his three Shaktis, each so different, representing different aspects of our own character. The second story is a surprising one – that between the oft-forgotten Mandodari and her rakshasa husband. In Nala’s story, you will discover how a strong woman deals with love and loss, with the help of the charming Gagana, a divine hamsa that is quite my favourite! I hope readers will enjoy the stories in ‘Prem Purana’ as much as I enjoyed writing them. And here’s a request – please leave a few lines or a rating on Amazon and Goodreads once you have read my books. I’m waiting!