Being In Two Different Frames

by Titiksha Singhal

When we finally selected one of my mother's photograph to put on display for her post-death ceremonial purpose, I plunged deep down in the narrow lanes of my memory and reached the point of time when that particular photograph happened. I was the one who clicked her into the moment, suggesting her a pose for the perfect click. That was a bright morning of a cheerful vacation. We were clicking for each other in turns, trying to capture the happy moments of our family trip. Above all, one thing I knew I could never have imagined in my worst nightmares was that I might have to use her pic of this sunny day, of a joyous month of April, of the rare moments of vacations captured in a blink of an eye, for a display in the name of highest reverences, remembrance and farewell, someday in future- a future that will follow just after 7 years of healthy life! She still was young but sick, very sick. Just a glance at the photograph that now stands in frame beyond the reach of my touch has driven me back into time I prefer returning back to. She still is that lively, cheerful, vibrant lady in a pinkish hued sari behind that frame, and in front of it are her children and husband squatted with teary eyes and hollowed hearts. The two sets of time are merely separated by just a semi-translucent glass. For a moment I am afraid that the other side of that frame does not come out to reach this present time. It would have completely freaked out the person on the other side clicking the photograph. Are the two instances really separated from each other? Are the people on the different sides of frame different from each other? Whether the thought is of dependency or independence of the two instances, it nevertheless fills me with horror. Horror of the oblivion that emerges as the distance between two sets of time increases. 

Short Story: Religion A Scam: by Sanchita Dwivedi

Religion is one misunderstood overrated "word" which some use to impose their mastery of living life  and to maintain their egoistic goals. While the borders divide nations, "modern religion" is responsible for dividing humanity and faith in everyone. Never did I know that religion was to divide people and restrict their actions. As a kid, religion to me, as taught by my mother, was a way to living with peace and harmony in the society. While growing up, I was exposed to the brutal truth, the atrocities that took place under the name of god! I felt disgusted because my mother presented a complete different ideology infront of me about god. Religion "had" motive to create happy living world then why does it bars people from different religion to love each other or to spend their lives together? I've never seen Muslims with horns or Christians with vulture noses or tail possessing Hindus to have a reason to differentiate. What I see that we look same, the air we breathe is same, the sky we share is same yet people need evidences to create differences, and I believe that excess faith in religion has led to this blinding of humans. Humans have complicated their lives to such an extent that killing seems to be a noble cause under the name of religion. I haven't ever come across any news stating that a Lion killed a rabbit due to conflicting ideologies about the jungle. Animals are more simplified thanks to their less evolved brains, which makes me sometimes regret human evolution. Then, is religion just a "scam" which is initiating to break people emotionally and to destroy them physically as well. Are we treating religion as just another system which we can play with and get a place in heaven? If that's the case, religion loses its grandeur, holiness, divinity and it shouldn't be the ultimate. Too much future planning we do, don't we? We're do nothing but initiating fights to prove that our religion is 'the' ultimate answer to everything. Why do we need to show off about religion and to claim that who's is better? Can't we just be thankful to lord for giving us life (that's what we are taught since birth that almighty created us! ) and to live happily greet people with love and not have skeptical mindset about others belonging to different religions. I asked few kids aged 5-6 years how they see religion and how are Muslim Hindu and Christians different from each other? All of them said religion divided to that limit where we can't change the ideology of elders because they "love" to fight and to see bloodshed across the globe because if it wasn't the same analogy then parents would have taught their kids that no religion is bad or different, god is one and you should respect him. That he doesn't expect you to fight in his name, all he expects is you to be true to yourselves.
One little kid came up to me and said let me tell you the difference between religion, he explained: Allah,Jesus, Khuda, Raaba, Quran, Bible, Geeta, they all have 5 letters and it's just the pronunciation and spelling that differs but deep down indirectly they mean the same thing,  they even preach the same thing. So we can conclude they are SYNONYMS of each other. So basically, we are fighting over which synonym is better that's just too foolish and perhaps very 'human' of us! And with this elaborate explanation of the word religion forced me to think that we all are same we are "synonyms". Wish I could ingrain simple thing into each and every persons minds. We can't eradicate it but we can mould it according to the growing world just like we do with Science, like we shifted from Nokia to iPhone's i.e. better version of communication. Acceptance is the biggest key to the successful enhancement of human race. Let's love and respect each individual to create a happy thinking world and focus on humanity's advancement to the next level, after all, its progress that will keep us alive in this vast expanse of space and time where we humans are perhaps the sole voyagers.

By
Sanchita Dwivedi 

Book Launch: The Purple Moon By Neelam Saxena Chandra in Mumbai

Venue: Kitab Khana
Opp Flora Fountain, Fort Mumbai
Date: 15th April 2015
Time 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm

On a beautiful sunny day in April, a book consisting of 100 Poems which emote different phases and sentiments of love, Titled "The Purple Moon" written by "Neelam Saxena Chandra" was Launched by Ms Rita Hemrajani  who has held many reputed positions in the Indian Railways, and is currently the Director of Administration at the Films Division, Mumbai. In her vast career profile, she has contributed a lot to the Central and the Western Railways, and has directed films titled “100 years of Indian cinema and “Train within 24 frames”.  along with,  Mr. Mohammed Ali Shah who is a Bollywood actor and a talented theatre artist. He has had a legendary life and a heavy timeline of life. From being an English Literature graduate and alumni of IIM Calcutta, to serving as a major in the Indian army at the J&k border, Mr. Ali has proved his mettle as the most eligible all-rounder we have known till date. He has appeared in films such as Haider, Agent Vinod and is all set to star in Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Vidyut Jamwal starrer- Yaara, where he plays a significant role. He has also been a part of many stage plays, like ‘Caine Mutiny Court Marshall’ directed by famous actor Mr. Naseeruddin Shah, who also happens to be Mr. Ali’s uncle.

Going through the title Neelam Saxena Chandra explained how this particular title was chosen. Its during her courtship days that the poems were written. Many poets idealize moon in form of poetry, and for her the colour of love was purple. This title was given to her by her husband.

As the event continued Mr Ali read out the very first poem of the book.

The moon appears purple

Since I have met you.

What,

You think I am crazy?

Hmm…

In love, the colours change

And the eyes see what they wish to.

I still remember

That it was a Thursday when I met you

And there was an instant connect,

As if some peace of mind

Has descended upon me.

I got a feeling

Of fulfilment – a spiritual fulfilment,

And everything looked purple-

Including the moon.

Yeah, I love you

As much as I love the purple moon.

Rather,

The purple moon

Looks like the symbol

Of our love.

After all,

In love as well as in the purple moon,

There is mysticism and magic

And both are as charming as ever

With over 20 published titles Neelam Saxena Chandra holds the Limca Book of Records and the India Book Of Records for the most published titles in a year. which is so very ironic that she is published with First Step Publishing, holding records for The most published poetry books in a year and Shortest titled Book by Limca Book of records and India Book OF Records.

The poem which has caught my interest in the book is titled "The Ink"

The ink

Shall freeze one day,

Or it may lose

Its colour

And while words get written

They may remain invisible.

It could even be

That the hands quiver

And refuse to deliver

What the mind says,

Or the eyes just can’t read

The written words.

Will you be by my side-

Reading to me,

Writing for me

And give my ink

Some colours?

In Conversation with Contributors of "i" An Anthology- Limca Book Of Records Holder Book

"i" An Anthology of short stories published by First Step Publishing  has entered into Limca Book Of Records so we got a chance to approach some of the contributing Authors of the book to have their view about the book and the Publishing Firm.
About the book:
Its a compilation of short stories based on the topic "i".
Awards and Credits 
The book has been entered into 

• Limca Book Of Records 
• India Book Of Records 

for the shortest title of book ever published.

Contributing Authors are from 3 Countries 

• South Africa
• U K 
• India

"i" has been written in 10 different languages on the cover which include 5 Indian Languages and 5 Foreign Languages


Aileen Friedman 

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?

It is a huge honour to be a part of this award. To be selected from not only numerous authors but also from a far away country like South Africa is very special.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing?

They are a superb bunch of people and very honest.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "  

Daphney is returning to her home town after running away sixty years ago. She is to give a talk at her old high school but  the past and her memories of that traumatic evening become very challenging.


Nehali Lalwani

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?  

To be frank enough, I never thought the book consisting one of my short stories will ever be listed in Limca Book Records. I was overjoyed when I was told about it. This book is really close to my heart and it will be close as I have given my first ever written short story for I an anthology of short stories. I really want this book to reach to the masses.  I feel delighted when my parents share this news with their acquaintances and feel proud about it.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing? 

Wonderful! It feels so good to work with a passionate team that works so efficiently. I would like to thank the entire team of First Step and specially Dr. Rohit Shetty for giving me a wonderful opportunity as a debut writer. I have been part of 2 books till date that has been published by first step and honestly, I would like to work  with them in future as well.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i " 

My story, titled as “Destiny wins over love” in I – An anthology of short stories is an inspirational tale about a combat amid destiny and love. Many times in life, we are mistaken in identifying the factual facade of our close ones because, we are blindly entailed into them and when reality strikes in we end up blaming destiny.

The moral of my story is, whatever happens, happens for something good. At times, If God/ destiny seizes away something from you that’s because, destiny have plans to surprise you with something better.
The story ends up with a positive note and I’m sure reader's belief in fate will befall stronger after reading Destiny wins over Love.


Lt Col Ankita Srivastava

1.  Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?  

I am feeling totally honored to have been one of the contributing author in this amazing anthology called "I". It is indeed a moment of rejoice for me and my family to know that the anthology that I contributed in has been selected to be entered in Limca Book of Records.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing? 

I had a very smooth work experience while being associated with First Step Publishing. The entire team had been very efficient and proactive. They were prompt and kept to their words in terms of publishing the author's  work. There was timely updates to each of the authors and they put in lot of efforts in designing the catchy cover with the word I written in different languages. As an author I felt  highly motivated to contribute in their other two anthologies as well.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "

My story titled "The Lost Identity"  is my personal story in terms of what i felt when my short service tenure with the Indian Army got over after putting in 14 years of long  military service. I felt lost in the civil world and how I developed hatred for one of my junior lady colleague whom I could
not bear to see having taken my place. I struggled hard to re assemble my  professional life just to earn my lost identity back.  Three years later when I was called by the  specialist doctors of RR
Military Hospital to help them decide upon a case of Lost identity of a military lady officer who was in coma since last 6 months due to a serious road accident , I come across that same colleague as this patient. I had to make her remember me as only that would have assured the doctors to continue her treatment or else declare her brain dead. I made her recognize me. I made her live. I didn't make her lose her identity of being a living being.

Abhishek Agarwal

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?

It is a special feeling to be a part of Limca Records. It is my first book and being a part of such prestigious list its overwhelming.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing?

I always wanted to pen down my thoughts and first step gave me the opportunity through " I" . It was a privileged to co-author it with 12 esteemed writers. to I am thankful to all and specially Rajesh and his team of first step for the co-operation.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "

My Story" Amchi Mumbai" talks about the experience that i had during stay in mumbai, and what actually makes the city different from the rest of the world. Right from impressing a girl to making new friends, Mumbai and Mumbaikars offer experiences which became un -erased pages of my life. I am sure that my readers will develop a new perspective of mumbai after reading the story.



Dr Nayab Patel

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?

I feel very proud of the fact that I am amongst the handful of authors whose publication has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. Considering this is my second publication it is a huge achievement for a budding author like my self and others who have contributed towards "i". Although there were some delays with the publication, considering the book has made it to the Limca Book of Records for 2015 it was worth the wait.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing?

It is a real pleasure to work with First Step, they are very professional and proactive. They deserve credit for putting their trust in new/unpublished authors and giving us a chance to be able to get published. They have excellent Marketing and PR skills and make very good use of social networking website. I am looking forward to working with them in the future.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "

My story "The best or worst years of my life" is about a school year in the live's of five friends. It has a mix of trust, emotion, jealousy and envy and tells a tale of how they go on from becoming the best of friends to complete strangers

Dr Roshan Radhakrishnan

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it?

It is really gratifying and a great honour to be a co-author in a
book that is now in the Limca Book of Records. Right from the very
concept onwards, the publishers looked to be unique among all the
anthologies available in India and I am glad it has been recognised.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing?

The whole experience of working with First Step Publishing was very
smooth. Everything was done with clockwork precision from the contest
entry dates to a timely announcement, lovely bio pages for each author
and publicity campaigns online.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "

My story "The Girl Without A Face" is a true story based on my
experience with a patient in an ICU and how her circumstances, her
attitude and her determination taught me a valuable life lesson.


Indu Pillai

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it? 

I think the concept of the book in itself was very unique and challenging. The news that 'i' has been entered into the Limca Book of Records 2015s Special Literature Edition is every more thrilling. This is a great achievement and I congratulate First Step Publishing and wish them many more such honours and accolades.

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing? 

It was an enjoyable experience. First step Publishing is that breed of publishers who are aiming to look at new formats and work with authors who are interested in telling stories in a unique way.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i " -

The central theme of the story is hope. During the span of just an hour or so the story takes you through the journey of a lifetime.

Paras Bandha

1. Now "  i "  has been entered into Limca Book Of Records 2015's Special Literature Edition. How do you feel about it? 
I would firstly, like to congratulate entire team and supporters of this book. Secondly, I appreciate each and every member of this book who is linked with this book directly and Indirectly. At last, I would like to sum up in short "It's a wonderful feeling to be a part of this book."

2. How as it working with First Step Publishing?

Working with Rajesh sir was wonderful experience but We are soon going to launch our next book as editing of that manuscript is done and I find probably fantabulous working with them.

3. Can you please share the gist of your story in " i "  

I" is itself explaining so many things within. All I can say is, one can see real life situation easily as this anthology acts as mirror.

Interview with Sabi Shaikh

We got a chance to catch up with Sabi Shaikh, an Indian Author who has a book titled Via Delhi to his credits as well as he is a part of  many anthologies as well.

1. Tell us something about yourself 
Hello to all my readers ... My name is Sabi Shaikh ... I am a Hyderabadi by heart but a Mumbaikar by soul. I am an extrovert by nature ...  An MBA Marketing post graduate from the ICFAI University. I am a huge fan of Mother Nature and an avid animal lover. I am a very simple guy who still prefers Pani Puri over Pasta. I love working out and talking, if not a writer I would have surely ended up becoming a gym instructor or a Radio Jockey. I am just like a coconut. I look pretty tough on the outside but on the inside I am a very emotional and sensitive guy. It’s rightly said that never judge a book by its cover. I love writing but I am not much of a reader. I am a go getter ... An opportunist who never lets any good opportunity pass by. I also love singing at Karaoke bars and partying with my childhood friends.




2. Describe your book
Saifuddin Khan was a Sunni Muslim boy who was pursuing his MBA and resided in the city of Nawabs, Hyderabad whereas Mridu Bhattacharya was a Bengali Brahmin girl who was preparing for her BBA entrance exams and hailed from the beautiful city of Dehradun. Destiny strikes one day and they meet in the early morning in a very unusual manner. They become each other’s moral support in no time. Their bonding grew stronger as the days passed by and beating all the odds the inevitable happened, they fell in Love. Their unique love story stared at the Indian Samaaj right in the face as even today people and parents claim to be very open minded but the thought of Inter religion marriage makes them go numb and the first thing that comes to their mind is “Char log kya kahenge?” These Char log have killed more dreams than anyone else ever could. Saif’s parents had a broader outlook towards life but sadly Mridu came from a very conservative and narrow minded family. They were a modern day couple who always thought that Love is greater than or equal to any religion and were ready to fight the battle for Love in their own respective ways. The city of Delhi played a very important role in their lives even though they belonged to different cities.
Their love story was nothing less than a rollercoaster ride with a series of ups and downs. A twisted love story to be precise...

3. What is the most intriguing feature of your story?
That would be the twists that I have created at the end of every chapter. It will keep you glued on to the book till the very last page.


4. Any future ventures you are working on? 
Yes, I have already started working on my second novel which would also be a very twisted love story just like my Debut Novel VIA DELHI. Apart from that I am also focusing on writing poems and getting them published in International anthologies this year. I will also be launching my own personal website shortly.


5. Tell us something about your published anthologies by far?
My first every published anthology was “The Notebook of Romance” which was a collection of short love stories. “Deaf and Dumb Love” was the name of my short story. Apart from that I am also a published poet in an anthology called “Winged Hearts”

6. Any Rituals for writing??
I usually prefer writing when my side of the world is fast asleep.  I need a very silent and peaceful environment to write so I prefer writing during the night. I don’t really follow any ritual for writing.

7. Any Advice for budding writers?
Write from your heart. At least that is what I do. Don’t write with the intention of making money or getting fame. Write to make people smile ... Write to make them fall in love with your style if writing ... Write to win hearts. Everything else will follow.

Deepanshu Saini:

Deepanshu Saini : An Indian Author who has 2 books by his name. Details of the books are below
To Know More about the Author or his books you can visit his website CLICK HERE

Girls Hostel:  

About the Book:

College life is carefree, fun and a happening phase...
Shreya, Shruti, Ridhi, Kriti and Meghna - all enjoyed being together at the Girls Hostel.
But the last night bonding was a little different...
The new secrets discovered and the new bonds grew... what suddenly made that happen?
The unspoken and unshared secrets of the dazzling damsels...
Girls - Wild Cats, Bad Witches or the Queen of Hearts... tough to guess.
Read to explore the realms of the Girls... Girls Hostel - Unspoken Memories

‘By The Mountains’:

About the book:
based on a real story……
Could any adventurous journey makes you fall in love with your life?
Do nature holds the power to teach you the language of love, happiness and above all trust?
Love at first sight – Myth or Reality?
A single smile so contagious that alters the pain of your life?
If your answers are in affirmative, it means you are on the right path – a remarkable journey ‘by the mountains’; where Dhruv is in the deep dark pit of depression from six months emotionally afraid, afraid to LOVE… afraid to LIVE…. Where, Anjali on the hunt of dying and consuming love but doesn’t try every other guy on the list.
Will Dhruv be able to control himself not to get struck once again by the girl’s detachment?
Will this trekking trip hold true love for Anjali’s destiny?
Love always finds its way, but if you love someone just say….
Isn’t It?
‘By The Mountains’ is a story filled with misconceptions between Dhruv and Anjali, ending on a memorable memoir that every lover craves for.
Read on… to climb through Dhruv and Anjali’s journey…

Emient author Prof. Manoj Das's new book released at World Book Fair in New Delhi

Report by Odisha Diary bureau, New Delhi: Acclaimed author Prof. Manoj Das’s new book "The Bride in the Moonlit Night and the Other Stories" published by The National Book Trust, New Delhi will be released in a function at "THE WORLD BOOK FAIR, NEW DELHI" at 5.00 PM on 15th FEBRUARY 2015 (SUNDAY) AT HALL NO.8.

It was released by the President of The National Book Trust and there was an interactive session with Shri Manoj Das after the book release function.

This 308 pages book contains 50 short stories written by him and are choosen by him from his entire creation of around 150 odd short stories in English and costs Rs.380.00.

On 16th February at 3.00 PM Shri Manoj Das had been interacting with children on his book "SO MANY SMILES" in the programme "Reading and Interaction with Prof. Manoj Das-the author of 'So Many Smiles” which was organised by National Book Trust, India at Hall no.7 (Foyer 8) ,World Book Fair,Pragatee Maidan, New Delhi.

Shri Manoj Das' new book "The Bride in the Moonlit Night and the Other Stories" published by The National Book Trust, New Delhi was  released in a function at "THE WORLD BOOK FAIR, NEW DELHI" at 5.00 PM on 15th FEBRUARY 2015 (SUNDAY) AT HALL NO.8.

Children dominate the 2015 World Book Fair!

New Delhi: This year’s World Book Fair, which started on February 14, has put prime focus on encouraging reading habits and creativity among Children.

A special segment for children named ‘Baal Mandap’ has been organized in Hall No. 7, in collaboration with the National Centre for Children's Literature.

The stalls inside the children hall have put on display -children literature, books, journals and magazines in Indian languages. There is a separate hall where skits, educational programs and children interactions are done.

One stall is from Sehwag International School, promoting the educational institute of infamous cricketer Virender Sehwag, who made an appearance on the first day of the event.

“Suryauday- Purvottar Bharat Ke Ubharte Svar, has been kept as theme of the fair, giving prime importance to the writers and authors of North East India. And close to 1050 publishers are participating in the event this year.

The stall of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting displayed varied genre of books - literature, history, autobiography, journals, business, art & culture and much more in the book fair. They also have a special catalogue of books for the children.

The 2015 extravaganza is witnessing the participation of approximately 30 foreign countries including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Iran, Japan, Sweden, Cuba, America and Malaysia.

The rich literature and journals put on display by these countries are much appreciated by the intellectual clan coming there. Pakistan stall has a separate catalogue for books for children, going by the due importance given to the little angles in the book fair.

Out of them, Singapore’s book café stall, Saudi Arabia’s architectural stall “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”, and Indonesia’s stall with ethnic décor are an eye-candy for the book lovers coming there.

The paintings displayed at Korean Illustrators Exhibition gave a good example of traditional art, much appreciated by the folks coming there. Also the cultural performances happening there held the nerves of visitors

There is no place better than the World Book Fair for the true book lovers, who feel themselves incomplete without the existence of fiction, drama, literature and romance weaved in the golden words by the author.

“100 Rupees’ Happiness” at New Delhi World Book Fair 2015

NEW DELHI, INDIA (ANS - Feb. 19. 2015) - The Union Minister for Human Resource Development of India, Smriti Irani, on Saturday inaugurated the 42nd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair at Pragati Maidan in the national capital.

The nine-day event, which began in 1972, is being organised by the National Book Trust (NBT), in association with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

A total of 30 countries are participating in this year's fair, which is the largest such event in the Afro-Asian region.

100 RupeesSingapore is the guest country in this year's fair, while the status of the focus country has been accorded to South Korea.

According to a delegation from Urim Books, based in Seoul, South Korea, the publisher is conducting an event entitled "100 Rupees' Happiness".

"We cannot purchase happiness with money, but book fair visitors can buy 'The Message of the Cross,' which is a must-read for the whole world in 57 languages, for only with 100 Rupees, so that they can possess happiness by reading the book," said a spokesperson for Urim Books.

"Actually, the book is being sold at the price of 859 Rupees on www.amazon.in, however, we have planned this event to supply the book at the economic price so that anybody can get a copy of the book.

"We downsized the book and re-designed the cover, and the visitors can enjoy the book at Stand No. S1/3 at Hall No. 7 ABC, which is in foreign pavilion of the book fair."

In the book "The Message of the Cross", author Dr. Jaerock Lee writes that "The reason why God began human cultivation is because He wanted to gain true children who seek and believe in God through their freewill."

He goes on to say that "Human cultivation refers to all the processes in God's creating human beings on this earth and governing the human history until the Judgment in order to gain true children."

InaugurationofNDBWF2015The 2002 Healing Festival with Dr. Jaerock Lee took place at Marina Beach, Chennai, and during
the four days of the festival more than three million people gathered and Dr. Lee delivered the message of the book.

Urim Books is supplying Dr. Jaerock Lee's spirit-filled books to the Indian book distributors or bookstores like Amazon.in, Flipkart.com, MSS bookstore, KK bookstore.

Delhi World Book Fair to get bigger in 2016

The aggressive and smart marketing and communication strategies of the organisers of the Delhi World Book Fair 2015 have managed to hit the bull’s eye when it comes to footfalls, but the team is already “thinking big” for the next edition where China will be the guest country at this annual business-to-business event.

“You know when the country is China, everything has to be big. They like going big, so wait for the next year when everything will be big,” Kumar Samresh, public relations officer of the National Book Trust (NBT), told IANS.

The NBT in association with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) organises this fair at Pragati Maidan. This year Singapore is the guest country and South Korea is the focus country.

Without revealing many details, Samresh told IANS that this year the organising team was extremely aggressive to increase “visibility” of the fair.

“Around two years back, we realised people would land at the fair mostly during last days and it too was because they were being told by someone. So we took notice of this and decided to promote aggressively almost a month in advance,” he said.

“And this is the reason why there hasn’t been any effect on the footfall despite Arvind Kejriwal’s swearing-in ceremony (as Delhi chief minister) and the India-Pakistan match. We almost crossed 75,000 footfall during the busy weekend,” he added.

With each year, challenge to host a book fair on such a massive scale that cuts across languages, states and countries and genres like crime, self-help, mythology, spirituality, religion, poetry, education, competition books, academics or anything under the sun.

This year, the fair has around 2,100 stalls, 1,100 exhibitors from India and 30 participating countries.

“It is tough job and the moment this fair will end, we will start working for the next year. And as said before it is going to be an extravagant affair,” said Samresh, adding around 200 members of the team work extensively to make this fair a success.





Source: CLICK HERE

Delhi Book Fair: About business and cultural ties

The international publishers participating in the ongoing Delhi World Book Fair 2015 not only want to do good business, but also bridge cultural ties and introduce their literary landscape to the Indian audience.

Gauhar Iqbal who represents Manshurat Publisher and Distribution firm from Lahore, has been participating in the fair since 2006. And to him, representation at the annual fair reinforces the fact that the relationship between the two nations is far away from being "turbulent".

"We don't come from Pakistan only to make money. We are here as cultural ambassadors representing our country. We have to improve the relationship between the two countries and for that it is important to have a presence in respective countries," Iqbal told IANS.

This year they have brought around 30-35 publishers from Pakistan to India and admit that this is the "biggest ever" contingent they have brought here.

"Indians love to read a lot of Islamic books and popular poets such as Faiz and Iqbal. We don't bring many novels to India because the cost of Urdu novels is higher in Pakistan and Indians don't want to shell out so much money," said Iqbal, adding they generate good business from the fair.

Similar sentiments were shared by Mohsen Nasralleeh, international representative of the Tehran International Book Fair, who has a stall at the fair. They have been participating for the past three years.

"This is the best platform to introduce Iranian writers to India. We want to promote Persian language and aid the learners of this language by offering a variety of books on various genres like Islamic culture, novels and poetry," Nasralleeh told IANS.

"We aren't doing much for profit because even though we sell a lot, the cost of our books here is lesser than the amount we pay for this stall. But the fair offers us many business opportunities and helps us to connect with many scholars and teachers," he added, saying they had brought 200 books and many of them have already been sold.

This stall has novels like Iranian author Seyed Mehdi Shojaee's "In the Twinkling of an Eye", Nima Yousij's "Modern Persian Poetry" and "The Water Urn" by Houshang Moradi Kermani.

National Book Trust (NBT) in association with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) organises this fair at Pragati Maidan. This year Singapore is the guest country and South Korea is the focus country.

The fair, which began in 1972, is now considered a major international festival in Asia and this year 30 countries like China, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, UAE, Nepal and Germany are participating in the fair which will conclude Feb 22.

According to Vidya Pertiwi, third secretary, social and cultural department, Embassy of Indonesia, the fair provides opportunities to seek engagement with publishers who would be interested in translating their literature.

"This is our second year at the fair, though we are not selling any books. We are seeking partnerships and displaying what we have to offer," Pertiwi told IANS.

And this is the reason why they have stacked travel encyclopaedias, children's books, fashion magazines, political books and popular Indonesian writers to showcase their literary landscape for the Indian audience.

South Korean exhibitors too aren't selling books, but they would be donating these books to the Korean Cultural Centre in the capital to promote their literary stalwarts and help those Indian students who are learning the language.

"There are many Indian students who are learning the South Korean language. So we want them to improve their writing and reading skills through these books," Eunhee Kim from the Korean Publishers Association told IANS.

"Also, we have brought books of some of our prominent writers and these students would be able to understand our country and issues through these writings," she added.

Source: CLICK HERE

Singapore authors, storytellers at the World Book Fair 2015

One of the popular tales about Singapore's discovery and its subsequent naming as the Lion city is believed to trace back to the time when an Indian King on his way to conquer China, stumbled upon this little island.

A sequel to this story unravels the mystery of the famous Merlion (half-lion and half-fish chimera) which has come to be the country's tourism mascot.

Rosemarie Somaiah, a Singaporean storyteller and writer, tells everybody about this in her 15-minute-long limerick, in as she puts it, "really bad rhyme."

Rosemarie is part of the contingent of writers from Singapore which is the guest country in the ongoing World Book Fair 2015.

Singapore, has witnessed repeated colonisations and partitions, giving rise to its multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-lingual character thereby vindicating its diverse literature and culture.

Peranakan author Joshephine Chia (58), who grew up in Kampong, a Malay village and later moved to the outskirts of London, describes how her identity frequently kept on changing with the state of her country: first as a British colony, then under the Chinese influence and later on the partition with Malaysia followed by its achievement of nationhood.

"We were first British, then we became Malays after independence and finally we became Singaporeans once we achieved nationhood," says Chia, whose book 'Kampong Spirit - Gotong Royong' is available for sale at the Fair.

Chia's book, a collection of short stories from 1955-65, the "dramatic decade" brings to life the colorful characters of the villagers with whom she grew up.

"Though deprived of modern comforts like water and electricity, multi racial neighbours lived harmoniously with each other with a strong sense of community and a wonderful zest for life," she says.


Source: CLICK HERE

Motivational Speaker and Author Mr Navin Gulia Launches Book written by Saumya Kaushik

Author and Motivational Speaker Mr Navin Gulia launches a book written by Ms Saumya Kaushik titled "Daughter of a drunkard Monk" in World Book Fair at Pragati Maidaan, Delhi  on  14th Feb 2015

About the Book
Daughter of a Drunkard Monk is Saumya Kaushik's debut novel, being a hard-core feminist the writer has penned down the adversities faced by women in a male patriarchal society the book picks out those issues which prevail in the society and are forgotten down in the papers and news. DODM is the story of the protagonist which can be any ordinary girl in similar situation. What, however, appears extraordinary is the grit and courage and confidence with which the protagonist faces all verities of adversities, many of which are simply reflections of her gender and the societal / patriarchal attitude towards girls in such / similar situations.

About the Author
Saumya Kaushik is a writer and an avid blogger. Daughter of a Drunkard Monk is her debut novel at the age of nineteen. She has also contributed her writing in the former anthology minds at work 3. She is a literature student and a hard-core feminist. Associated with several NGO's for women empowerment, she believes in an unbiased gender society.

The Book is available on all leading online and offline stores. Published by Omji Publishing Pvt Ltd.

Gujarat Chief Minister Smt. Anandiben Patel releases book – ‘Shadows of the Land’ written by Ms Swasti Mishra

Gujarat  Chief Minister Smt. Anandiben Patel releases book – ‘Shadows of the Land’ written by Ms.  Swasti Mishra
*******
Gandhinagar, Saturday, 31st January: Gujarat Chief Minister Mrs. Anandiben Patel today released a book ‘Shadows of the Land’ written by Mr. Swasti Mishra.
The book is depicting the struggles and successes of NRIs on foreign lands. It also showcase how the cultural and social values of Indian cultures have been upheld by the NRIs.
The Chief Minister congratulated Mr. Mishra for his book and wished him good luck.


Published by Moments Publishing book is now available on all major online stores

Sourced From: CLICK HERE

Beware of Publishers in India

Well iam into book promotions and online review of books. This is a very controversial topic as there are many topics which are unclear.
What is Self Publishing: Self Publishing is a kind of publishing where the writer gets his / her content published without a specific publishing firm. There are many online platforms which do this work. In self publishing the author himself / herself is responsible for marketing the book. The author has to take care of the sales figures and get the royalty from the platform as per their terms.

Paid Publishing: In paid publishing the author pays to the publisher to get published. its a service that they are taking from the publisher for which they are paying them. Its also many times mistaken by Self Publishing.  Paid Publishing can be of many types of paid publishing,
Partnered Publishing: Here in this case the work is divided and so are the costing behind it. As per the costing shared profits are also shared upon successful sale of books.
In partnered publishing as well there is another way wherein a publisher ensures your investment recovery. you can contact HERE

Now comes the part which is very interesting.
There are a few publishers in India who claim to work for budding writers, but these publishers are the ones from whom you should be aware of.
Point to remember:
While approaching a publisher you should be careful and take the following points into consideration.
1. Are the Publisher to whom you are approaching have a legit standing?
2. Are they legal work complete?
3. Do they intend in getting the paperwork done before submission of manuscript?
If yes then well and good, If no then please excuse the publisher.
4.  Have they published books before?
     a. If yes then which?
     b. Where are they available?
5. Contact one of the authors published by the firm before hand and satisfy yourself
6. Beware of such claims by publishers. Finalsied a big deal / Got a mail from a famous book store.  Monthly Royalty Payouts. (Monthly royalty payouts is possible but verify)Beware of such claims and verify their authenticity which such publishers will support with a screenshot hiding the names and mail ids.
7. Some even share photoshopped articles about their firm in newspapers, across socila media platforms. In these cases do check for legit links and the image / articles details carefully. 

In many cases and instances we have found that publisher  takes the money from the Writer and does not deliver. Their reasons are

1. Burnt all the x sum of copies as they had an editing error

2. The warehouse caught  fire.

Well there are some publishers who are into plagiarism who ask authors of their entire manuscript and then publish the same with their name on it.   

Following are a list of some reputed publishers in India whom you can contact to. 

Rupa Publications

EDITORIAL OFFICE
Rupa Publications India Pvt. Ltd
161-B/4, Gulmohar House
Ground Floor, Yusuf Sarai Community Centre
NEW DELHI 110049
P: 011-49226666
E: editorial@rupapublications.com



Penguin Books India
7th Floor, Infinity Tower – C
DLF Cyber City,
Gurgaon 122002, Haryana
Tel +91 124 478 5600
Fax +91 124 478 5600
or e-mail us at customer.service@in.penguingroup.com


Leadstart Publishing Pvt Ltd.
Regus Business Centre,
Level 1, Trade Centre,
Bandra Kurla Complex,
Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400 051 India.
Contact No: +91-22-61623804
Fax: +91-22-61623800

Sales Office
Leadstart Publishing Pvt Ltd.
Unit – 25-26, Building A/1,
Near Wadala R.T.O.
Wadala(E), Mumbai – 400 037.
Telephone:022 24046887

First Step Publishing

303 304 Garnet 

Nirmal Lifestyles Phase 2 

Behind Nirmal Lifestyles Mall 

LBS Marg 

Mulund West 

Mumbai 400080

+91-9820557998

 

Dream House Publications

Rajabagicha Labour Colony
House No- N/3, Badambadi
Cuttack- 753009, Odisha

gargipublishers
http://www.gargipublishers.com/

Interview with Neelam Saxena Chandra

1. Tell us something about yourself
I am a bureaucrat working with Indian Railways. Writing is my passion and I have written nineteen books as of now. I was named by Forbes India as one of the seventy eight most popular authors. My other awards include
•    Awarded by eminent poet/lyricist Gulzarji in a Poetry Contest organized by American Society on the topic ‘Poetry for Social Change’.
•    Received the Rabindranath Tagore International poetry award -2014
•    Awarded Premchand Puraskar by Ministry of Railways (II prize).
•    Awarded by Children Book Trust, India in 2009.
•    Neelam also debuted as a lyricist in Shankar Tucker's composition 'Mere Sajan sun sun' at the link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auRmXTmVwrY and the song has won the 'Popular Choice' award  in Folk Fusion category in Radio City Freedom Awards.
•    Neelam is a record holder in the India Book of Records for being the author with highest number of publications in a year.
•    Neelam and her daughter hold record for being the first mother-daughter duo to write a poetry book for the book 'Winter Shall Fade' in Miracle World Records and India Book of records.

2. The Purple Moon  its an intriguing title how did you come up with this title.

After having completed the book, while I was wondering what its title should be, my husband randomly uttered the name and I loved it. That moment was immediately captured by me in the form of the title for my collection.

3. Describe your book

‘The Purple Moon’ is a collection of a hundred poems that emote the different sentiments and phases of love. What really is love? It is a feeling most difficult to define; it is a sentiment, to be felt, smelled, drunk and tasted – for it is the most subtle emotion. , When one is in love for the first time, many raw feelings en wrap him or her. One may just be crazy, have a simple desire to meet the sweetheart or may just feel something very divine…On the other hand, there are chances of one getting annoyed, developing jealousy and hatred and may end up doing random acts. However, as love matures, the feelings also mature and it is then that the lovers realize that love is something more than just these raw feelings.
Love brings out the deepest of emotions and is the purest of all feelings. True love makes one fly, giving the person in love a pair of wings, making one expand one’s horizons.
‘The Purple Moon’ is a treat to all those who have ever experienced love

4. How was it working with First Step Publishing

It was an excellent experience. First Step Publishing believed in quality and everything was done timely and in consultation with me.

5. Describe your path of getting published

I began with reputed magazines. Getting published in them was in itself a satisfaction that my work and its quality is being recognized. It was only after I had made a space for myself that I moved to publishing my own books.

6. any new venture you are working with

I write continuously. I have more than one novel, three short story collections, two poetry collection and eight illustrated books for children under publication with various reputed publishers.

7. Though being poetry, which is not read to that extent in India, The Purple Moon has been in the top charts on amazon. How do you feel about it.

It is a fact that poetry is not so well read in the country. Despite that, ‘The Purple Moon’ remained in best seller list for long. This boosted my confidence. I am sure it must have instilled confidence in other poets minds too, who wish to publish their books.

8. Let us know some details of your titles published by far.

Various books published by me include
1.    Can I have this chance - A novel by Authors Press 
2.    Soul Seekers- A novel by LiFi Publications 
3.    Rishtey Mohabbat ke –  A short story collection in Hindi by Omji Publishers. 
4.    Pankhudiyan – A short story collection for children by Sadhna Publications.
5. The Delicate Wings - A poetry collection by The Poetry Society of India 
6.    Layers of flickering lights – A poetry collection by Authorspress India.  7.    Silhouette of Reflections – A poetry collection by YS Books International. 
8.     The Purple Moon– A poetry collection by First Step Publishing
9.    Hues of Love – A poetry collection by Writers Empire.
10.    Treacherous Lady – A novella by Pageturn Publishers. 
11.    Tales from Sundervan – A short story collection for children by Sahni Publications. 
12.    Chanda – A picture book for children by Room to Read.
13.Five tales – A short story collection for children by Naman Publications
14. Winter Shall fade - A poetry collection along with co-author Simran Chandra published by Omji Publishers
15. Her story – Edited by Neelam, it is a compilation of stories of women around their workplace
16. Rishtey Zindagi ke- A poetry collection in Hindi
17. Skylines by Authorspress
18. As a beginner for a beginning by Authorspress
19. Geet gaata chal by Subhanjali Prakashan

9. Any Rituals for writing??

None. I am a very moody person and I write as per my whims. My heart does not even follow my own mind and chooses its own path.

10. Any advice for budding writers.

Believe in yourself. You cannot become famous overnight. Writing is a serious matter and it requires lot of hard work and efforts to hone your skills. It is almost like meditation.

11. How can your readers connect to you?

My readers can connect to me on facebook at CLICK HERE

Interview with Samir Satam

Interview with Samir Satam author of Postcards From Memory, published by First Step Publishing

We happen to catch up with the poet and his book available on all major Indian online websites and available on Google playstore. Its Samir Satam's First Book and it happens to top the charts of amazon.in.

WF:- What is your writing process? Do you follow a regular routine?
Samir:  No, I do not follow a regular routine. For me to write, I need to be in a certain frame of mind which is possible only when I have a free mind. I have tried writing by deliberately fuelling my imagination but it doesn’t work for me as the pieces that come on paper in doing so do not have that natural flow to it.


WF:- What are the most important elements of good writing? According to you, what tools are must-haves for writers?

Samir: The most important element for me is a peaceful environment. In today’s age note taking tools on smart phones also help to jot down pointers to be worked on later. An internet connection is a must to research the topic I choose to write on. When you write on true events, you are aware that there is a certain responsibility attached to the content. You cannot afford to be historically and politically wrong in those cases.

WF:- What motivates you to write?
Samir: When it comes to poetry, anything in vicinity can be a source of inspiration. Sometimes you realize that your view of a certain thing might differ when thought from a different perspective. When you are thinking as a poet your vision alters to let the subject enter your mind in a different way than usual. The most important part is once you get hold of that thought process and follow it, words start flowing rhythmically, naturally, almost as if you tend to feel you are not writing that poem but the poem is coming to you piece by piece. All you have to do is accumulate it on paper and work on it to make it crisper.

WF:- Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it?
Samir: Yes, I do suffer from a writer’s block. Every writer tends to. Normally I try to find what chain of thought is stopping me from thinking clearly. In my lowest moments, I don’t stop taking notes. It is wonderful how those same words which mean nothing at a point can inspire you to write when your mind is free again. Sometimes when I have started writing in prose and get stuck at a point in between, I stop writing from the start and approach the subject from the conclusion that I want to reach to and let my thoughts work backwards. It helps in giving a fresh expression to the same thoughts. The most interesting thing you can do is when you are facing a serious wall of a writer’s block, stop everything and start writing about the thoughts that are blocking your mind. It can be anything. If your mind has gone blank, you can end up with an interesting write-up on your own state of mind at that point. It will help you later to deal with a similar situation.

WF:- Do you have any advice for other writers?
Samir: I am not yet proven myself as a writer to advice my peers on how to write. Personally for me what has helped is my ability to Read, Read, Read and while doing so Observe… It helps me to improvise.


WF:-  What book(s) / author(s) have influenced your life and writing?
Samir: There are quite a few. Different books are special for different reasons. Some for their style, some for the content… The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand, All Poetry books of Gulzar, Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje, Etudes by Aseem Kaul, Being in Love by Osho, Without Fear by Kuldip Nayar, Black Wind and Other Poems by Deepti Naval


WF:-  Being published for the first time, Do share with us the experience as your book is soon to come out?
Samir: I do not see my first book as a goal. I see it more as an important landmark in my journey to perceive my passion further. Having said that, the process of reaching this particular landmark in itself has been an interesting ride and has given me quite an insight in the world of new age publishing. Till now my experience with First Step Publishing has been great. And I look forward to carry on my relationship with them beyond books.

WF:-  Any writing rituals?

Samir: Writing in a secluded corner of a particular coffee shop on a weekday when there are no crowds has helped a great deal. I prefer to sit facing the wall to avoid distractions. As strange as it may sound, the write-ups that have turned out quite well for me have been the ones I have written after having a couple of drinks. I guess it has something to do with the relaxing effects of alcohol. I am not trying to increase the sales of wine but it works for me. Different things may work for different people.

WF:-  Tell us some more about your book.

Samir: Postcards from Memory is a collection of my poems that took birth in me in last three years. Some of them are quite personal while some are born out of pure imagination. Some of them are just an attempt to connect to pain that other people might be feeling in certain unfortunate situations. These poems are classified in 10 different categories based on the themes that these poems are built on.


WF:-  How hard is it to establish and maintain a career in poetry writing?

Samir: I would say it is pretty hard. I remember a literary agent telling me that you have to be a celebrity to publish a poetry book. I still can’t figure out what has celebrity status got to do with writing poetry. Nothing but I realize that selling a book has more to do with a famous face. I guess it is more about market demands and the attraction that people have towards celebrity life. But ironically if you see some of the most legendary poets like Gulzarsahab prefer to lead a rather simple life away from the glitz and glamour that accompanies the life of a celebrity.

WF:- Any Advice for budding writers / authors?

Samir:  Do not change your material as per market demands. Write what you believe in. Even if it never gets published, understand that it is not you who is losing out on much but the world is missing out on something beautiful.

WF:- Any last thoughts for our readers?

Samir: ‘Last thoughts’ sounds more like I am on my death bed ;-) To readers, I would like to say, “Just like friends, choose your books wisely.”

You can catch grab a copy of the book from CLICK HERE
To Know more about the author CLICK HERE