"Stories have the power to connect us, inspire us, and challenge us to think differently. I encourage you to embrace storytelling in all its forms and keep questioning and reimagining the world around you—that’s how we grow."
My passion for writing grew gradually, like the brushstrokes of a painting. As a child, I was deeply immersed in the arts—sketching, painting, poetry. Stories always fascinated me, but my academic journey in literature gave me the tools to understand narratives in a structured way. Writing became my way of exploring the world and expressing my thoughts. It wasn’t just about telling stories but engaging in a deeper dialogue—one that could inspire, question, and even provoke.
Q. Your Sati series is a reimagining of Indian mythology from a feminist perspective. What inspired you to take on this ambitious project?
Indian mythology has always been a treasure trove of profound narratives. However, I noticed a recurring theme: women, who are often central to these tales, were rarely explored in their full complexity. Their agency, emotions, and inner struggles were overshadowed by the heroics of male characters. The Sati series is my way of rectifying that. These women—Sati, Parvati, and others—aren’t just supporting characters; they are embodiments of strength, intelligence, and resilience. By giving them a voice, I aim to shed light on their multifaceted personalities and draw parallels to the contemporary struggles of women everywhere.
Q. Mythology is deeply entrenched in tradition. Did you face challenges while reinterpreting these stories for a modern audience?
Absolutely, and I expected it. Mythology is sacred to many, and reinterpreting it can sometimes be seen as controversial. But I believe reinterpretation is vital because myths are living, breathing entities—they evolve with society. The challenge lay in staying respectful to the original texts while bringing a fresh perspective. The response, thankfully, has been overwhelmingly positive. Readers see how these ancient tales resonate with modern issues like gender equality, identity, and societal roles. It’s encouraging to see that they are willing to embrace new dimensions of these timeless stories.
Q. How do you think mythology shapes our cultural and social ethos today?
Mythology is like the DNA of culture. It influences everything—our festivals, values, even our interpersonal relationships. Myths are moral compasses, teaching us lessons in empathy, resilience, and justice. But their relevance isn’t static. Today, as we grapple with issues like climate change, gender inequality, and mental health, revisiting myths allows us to draw new meanings and solutions. For instance, the balance between creation and destruction in Indian mythology could inspire a more sustainable approach to our planet.
Q. Beyond your work as an author, you’re the founder of Tell Me Your Story (TMYS). Could you share more about this initiative and what makes it unique?
TMYS is close to my heart. It’s not just a platform for storytelling but a confluence of art, academia, and social commentary. At TMYS, we work on thematic projects that combine academic insights with creative narratives. For example, we’ve explored themes like gender dynamics, cultural diversity, and environmental consciousness through collaborative writing projects. We involve authors, scholars, and even students, fostering a sense of community. TMYS is about sparking conversations that matter, using storytelling as the medium to connect intellect with emotion.
Q. As someone who juggles multiple roles—author, educator, entrepreneur—how do you manage your time and creativity?
It’s not easy, but it’s fulfilling. I view all my roles as interconnected. My writing enriches my teaching, my academic insights shape my narratives, and TMYS provides a collaborative space to test and share ideas. Time management is crucial, but what truly helps is my passion for each role. I’ve learned to prioritize and create boundaries—for instance, setting aside specific hours for writing or planning TMYS projects. Creativity doesn’t come on command, but discipline helps channel it productively.
Q. Your books are deeply rooted in cultural narratives but have a universal appeal. What’s your secret to striking this balance?
The key is authenticity. Culture is an intrinsic part of who we are, and when you write with honesty, it naturally resonates. At the same time, emotions like love, grief, ambition, and conflict are universal. So while the setting might be culturally specific, the themes connect with readers globally. I focus on telling stories that feel personal yet open a window to a broader human experience.
Q. Many aspiring writers look up to you. What advice would you give to someone starting their writing journey?
First, write for yourself before writing for others. Find your voice and tell the story that burns within you. Second, be a voracious reader—read widely and diversely. Books are your best teachers. Third, embrace discipline. Writing is often romanticized, but it’s a craft that requires consistency and hard work. Lastly, don’t fear rejection. It’s part of the process. Learn from it and keep moving forward.
Q. As an author, do you find writing more liberating or challenging?
It’s a mix of both. Writing is liberating because it allows me to explore uncharted territories—of thought, emotion, and creativity. But it’s also challenging because it demands vulnerability and honesty. There’s always the pressure to do justice to the story and the characters. Some days, it flows effortlessly; on others, it’s a battle with self-doubt. But at the end of the day, the joy of creating something meaningful makes it all worthwhile.
BIO :
Koral Dasgupta is an acclaimed author, educator, and founder of 'Tell Me Your Story (TMYS)', a platform bridging creative writing and academia. Known for her 'Sati' series, which reimagines Indian mythology through a feminist lens, she explores themes of culture, identity, and resilience. A speaker at literary and academic forums, Koral’s work delves into the intersection of art, storytelling, and society. Passionate about nurturing creativity, she continues to inspire readers with her innovative narratives and thought-provoking projects.
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