Sukanya Basu Mallik is a renowned Indian author who is also working on
a VR film. Her award-winning works have appeared in prominent media houses with her films screened globally, including at Lift-Off Global. Recently she has once again short into prominence with her book “Durga The Divine Warrior”. Prof Dr Shiv Sethi from the Daily Guardian had a tete a tete with this multi talented author. Here are a few excerpts.
Q. What inspired you to start writing, and how has your journey evolved since your first book?
A. Writing began as an outlet for me to explore ideas, emotions, and stories I’d collected through experiences. I’ve always been drawn to the magic of words, and my first book was born from that passion. Over the years, the journey has evolved from simple storytelling to more intentional narratives. Each book reflects my growth —not just as an author but also as a person who has learned to tell stories with greater empathy and purpose.
Q. Do you follow a particular writing process or routine when working on a novel?
A. My process is fluid. I don’t believe in rigid routines—ideas come when they choose to. I allow them to surprise me. But given my academic commitments, mornings are usually dedicated to work and research, while I reserve late nights for actual writing sessions—something about the quiet hours fuels creativity.
Q. How do you balance character development in your books while maintaining an engaging plot?
A.I think characters and plots are inseparable. The trick is to let their development breathe while making sure the story doesn’t lose pace.
Q. Which of your characters do you feel closest to, and why?
A. I feel closest to Mira from my Tridevi series. She is curious, introspective, and constantly evolving— much like me. Mira’s journey mirrors some of my personal challenges and triumphs, making her feel like an extension of myself.
Q. Can you share any challenges you’ve faced in transitioning from an author to a filmmaker?
A. In filmmaking, everything must be shown visually—dialogues, body language, or subtle cues. Collaborating with actors and technical teams is rewarding, but it also requires a different mindset.There’s more pressure to stick to timelines and manage multiple moving parts. And, of course, budgets are always a challenge! However, my storytelling skills as an author have helped me adapt to the new medium.
Q. What themes do you find yourself most drawn to in your novels, and do these reflect themes in your films as well?
A. Whether it’s in a novel or a film, I’m drawn to the idea of characters discovering their true potential.
Q. Which do you find more rewarding: completing a novel or finishing a film project?
A. Both are rewarding in different ways. Completing a novel feels like an intimate achievement because every word is crafted with care over months (sometimes years). On the other hand, finishing a film is exhilarating because it’s the result of collective effort. It’s thrilling to see the story come alive on screen with the help of a team. While novels give me peace, films give me adrenaline. I can’t choose between them—they both satisfy different parts of me.
