He’s on the write lines

Can you tell us about your debut novel Blood Moon and what inspired you to write it?

Blood Moon is a paranormal thriller that I wrote during the Covid-19 pandemic. The idea came to me during the lockdown, and I decided to put my creativity on paper. It’s a story that had been brewing in my mind for years, and the circumstances finally pushed me to write it. I was fortunate enough to connect with a great literary agent, Sohail Mathur from Book Bakers, who believed in the potential of Blood Moon. Within a short span of time, the manuscript caught the attention of Ajay Mago, the publisher at Om Books International, and that marked the beginning of my journey.

How did you transition from being a filmmaker to a writer?

While I’ve been known for my work in filmmaking, particularly with movies like Kaal and Luck, the credit for discovering my writing potential actually goes to Karan Johar. Working with him on projects like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Bhoot inspired me to explore storytelling in a different medium. That’s when I started writing scripts and eventually ventured into novel writing.

Can you elaborate on your writing process and how it differs for films?

As a filmmaker, my storytelling approach is more visual. I focus on setting up the atmosphere and location first, which then leads to the development of characters, story, screenplay, and dialogues. Writing a novel requires a different mindset, as it involves delving into the narrative and creating a world solely through words. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding experience adapting my writing style for novels.

Who are some of your literary influences and how have they shaped your writing?

While I’m not an avid reader, I draw inspiration from authors like Ruskin Bond, JK Rowling, and JRR Tolkien. Their ability to create immersive worlds and compelling narratives has greatly influenced my approach to storytelling.

How do you think your background in filmmaking influences your approach to storytelling in literature?

I tend to visualise scenes and settings in a cinematic way, which helps in creating a rich and immersive reading experience. It allows me to paint a vivid picture for readers, drawing them deeper into the narrative.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Always stay true to your voice and embrace your unique perspective.