Twinchantment Tales follows siblings living in a quaint village on magical adventures, each wrapped in all the charm of a folktale. What was the inspiration for this collection of stories?

The inspiration for Twinchantment Tales stems from the vivid storytelling of my childhood, where my grandparents would weave magical narratives around our traditions and folklore. Those enchanting evenings nurtured my imagination and instilled a deep love for stories rich in culture and values. The twin characters reflect facets of my own personality—two sides of the same coin, embodying curiosity, courage, and wonder. Through these siblings’ adventures, I wanted to recreate that nostalgic charm, blending Tamil Nadu’s vibrant heritage with mystical fantasy, and offer readers the same joy and connection I felt as a child listening to my grandparents’ tales.

Do you have a favorite story in this collection? One that you especially enjoyed crafting?

My favorite story from Twinchantment Tales is The Magic of Erode’s Turmeric. Crafting it was a deeply fulfilling experience because it intertwines nature’s extraordinary qualities with the profound power of intention and gratitude. This tale teaches us that true magic lies in the reverence we hold for the simple wonders around us. Arvind’s journey in uncovering the healing essence of his turmeric fields mirrors a universal truth—that mindful interactions with nature and each other unlock infinite beauty and potential. This story resonates deeply with me, reminding us to honor the gifts of the earth with care, gratitude, and purpose.

What was the inspiration for Annapurani and Bhuminathan’s traits and dialogue?

The inspiration for Annapurani and Bhuminathan’s traits and dialogue stems from my personal experiences and deep connection to Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage. Having visited the district where the story is set, I felt a profound sense of belonging and familiarity. The values and wisdom imparted by my own family, along with the traditions of Tamil Nadu, shaped their personalities. Annapurani’s nurturing nature and Bhuminathan’s grounded wisdom reflect the warmth, respect, and closeness that define our culture. Their dialogue was inspired by the storytelling traditions passed down through generations, celebrating the beauty of simple, meaningful connections.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

I am currently working on multiple exciting projects. My next focus is on a fiction novel, which I’m deeply invested in. Along with this, the translation of Twinchantment Tales will be released in Japanese, Thai, and Korean, with the Tamil translation being done by me. Additionally, there’s an upcoming anthology I’m contributing to, alongside famous authors, and I’m working on a separate memoir project. I also plan to curate 50 stories from my book 200 Zen Stories for a special project. While the timeline for these varies, I’m excited to share them with readers as they unfold! All of these works will inspire positivity and resonate positively around the world.

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