Interview With Author Kalavathi Raj
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello everyone. I am Kalavathi Raj. Born in Calcutta, I have had the privilege of traversing across the Indian landscape. Since my first book is a non-fiction project, as in a memoir, I am very aware of the fact that my story may stand the chance of being seen or remain invisible forever. I would still say that my story is unique to my journey of 30 tough years battling with my crazy parents, imaginary friends and getting into compromising situations in the office. Actually I am working on my second book already, which is a kind of sequel to ’30 YEARS IN THE SEARING SUN’.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Thanks to the omnipotent to get asked this very niche ‘celeb’ type question. My first book is a non-fiction novel. A romance memoir is what it is ultimately. The reason I wrote this book is to make women believe in their inner child and break free from repressive societies. I especially intend to get my story to reach women from conservative communities. Am I saying that being conservative is wrong? Absolutely not. My argument is that clothes do not determine a woman’s value. She wears them hence they have value. What I’m essentially saying is getting to a point of freedom is absolutely necessary for us. Freedom from being told what is acceptable and what is not, freedom to pursue your dreams and the freedom to think and decide for yourself.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Very interesting question. I actually haven’t really observed my writing process. So obviously this question is a bit too early for me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Okay. Here we go. ‘THE PORTTRAIT OF A LADY’ by Henry James, ‘MILK AND HONEY’ by Rupi Kaur, ‘THE SOULFUL SEEKER’ by Punam Chadha Joseph are just a few to begin with. English Classic novels is what I really love referring to like ‘Anne of the green gables’.
What are you working on now?
I am writing a sequel to my memoir which is based on my unique struggles in marriage in my community, India.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
To be honest, every portal that offers access to writers like me to promote our books is great. I don’ rally have a favorite per say. But I’d recommend AMAZON to anybody who is out there wanting to reach out their book.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
To new authors, I’d say nothing. According to me, the decision to sit down and write in the first place comes from a rare place within us that encourages us to explore the unknown. I’d like to imagine authors as new sailors who would venture into the sea back in the day. They had no sure path or plan, as they anchored where they found it good. I think we authors are pretty much the same. Its the act of incredible bravery to explore new territory with writing a new book to see what it tells about us as individuals. Vow! That’s great!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Look no further, just keep moving.
What are you reading now?
‘A RADICAL AWAKENING’ by Dr. Shefali.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Poetry is one of my skills I wanna explore. I really want to see what the process will do to me as a creative person.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
‘A RADICAL AWAKENING’ by Dr. Shefali, a FEW good old english classic novels. Something written by female writers at least.
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