Author Tushar Kiran Moodgal featured in German Author’s Summit 2025

Part 1

The German Author’s Summit serves as an international gathering that brings together
literary talents from across the world, celebrating their contributions to literature and fostering
cross-cultural dialogue. This summit has played a significant role in recognizing authors from
various parts of the globe, providing a platform for them to showcase their works, exchange
ideas, and connect with a global audience. It is a testament to the power of literature in
bridging gaps and uniting diverse voices in the world of storytelling.

1. Your Latest Work and Inspirations
Could you tell us about your latest work and what inspired you to write it? How does it reflect
your personal experiences or vision for society?
Answer:

‘Bushido Blossoms’ is my latest poetic endeavour, a Senryu collection that pays tribute to the
samurai ethos, the philosophy of Bushido, and the martial traditions of Japan, all while
embracing the poignant and often ironic lens of human nature inherent in Senryu poetry.
The inspiration for this work can be traced back to my time at St. Stephen’s College, where I
had the privilege of studying Japanese under Dr. Chandni Kumari. Her teachings introduced
me to the world of traditional Japanese poetry, an experience that left an indelible mark on
my creative spirit. It was during one of her evocative lectures that I first encountered Senryu.
Unlike Haiku, which reverently observes nature, Senryu explores the complexities, humour
and vulnerabilities of human existence, a theme that resonated deeply with me.
Through Bushido Blossoms, I sought to intertwine this poetic tradition with the ideals of
Bushido—the samurai’s way of life which emphasize honour, integrity, and discipline. To me,
this juxtaposition captures the duality of existence: the ephemeral beauty of life, akin to
cherry blossoms, and the enduring virtues that guide us.
This collection also reflects my personal experiences and vision for society. I believe poetry,
like Bushido, serves as a mirror and a guide, helping us confront the human state with both
honesty and grace. By blending the martial philosophies of giants like Miyamoto Musashi,
Oda Nobunaga and others with the wit and sharpness of Senryu, my aim is to inspire readers
to find balance in their lives—celebrating the extraordinary in the ordinary, embracing life’s
cursory moments, and striving for inner strength.
Through ‘Bushido Blossoms’ I humbly attempt to enunciate the importance of harmony,
resilience and the timeless beauty of simplicity in a world overwhelmed by chaos.

2. Favourite Authors and Literary Influences
Every writer is influenced by their literary predecessors. Could you share with us who your
favourite authors are, and how they have influenced your writing style or approach to
storytelling?
Answer:
The Romantic era poets have had a profound influence on my journey as a poet, significantly
shaping my poetic style, themes, and overall creative approach.

William Wordsworth, with his deep connection to nature and the sublime, has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the
natural world and its transformative essence. His vivid imagery and sensory-rich language
have left a mark on my descriptive style, evident in the opening chapter of Lamentations. His
ability to evoke the spiritual and emotional bond between humanity and nature has guided my
exploration of existential and metaphysical themes in my work.
Similarly, John Keats’s introspective and melancholic poetry has deeply impacted my writing.
His lyrical beauty and exploration of themes such as love, mortality, and life’s transient nature
have inspired me to delve into these universal human emotions. His emphasis on cherishing
the present and capturing the ephemeral beauty has reinforced the importance of seizing
moments of intensity and wonder in my own writing.

Lord Tennyson’s epic narratives and Arthurian legends have expanded my understanding of
storytelling within poetry. His mastery of meter, rhyme, and narrative structure has
encouraged me to embrace epic themes and mythic storytelling, which I strive to reflect in my
narrative pieces. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s radicalism and visionary ideals, although I do not
agree with him on all points, have challenged me to think critically, explore alternative
perspectives, and address themes of social and political upheaval in my poetry. Shelley’s
belief in the transformative power of art continues to inspire me to use poetry as a medium
for social commentary and positive change.


The darkly romantic works of Edgar Allan Poe have fascinated me since my earliest
encounters with his writing. His exploration of the human psyche, obsession, and the
macabre has influenced my fascination with psychological depth and the darker facets of
human nature. Poe’s mastery of atmosphere and suspense has inspired me to incorporate
themes of mystery, ambiguity, and psychological tension in my poetry, as reflected in my
narrative piece, ‘The Mourner’s Lament’.

Beyond these giants of Romanticism, the works of Edgar Albert Guest, with their inspirational
and motivational themes, have also left a lasting impression.

Additionally, the great Bengali poets—Jibanananda Das, Michael Madhusudan Dutta, Kazi Nazrul Islam, and Rabindranath
Tagore—have profoundly influenced my poetic sensibilities, enriching my appreciation for
lyrical beauty and cultural depth.

In essence, these poets are to me what iconic rock and heavy metal bands are to a teenage
metalhead. They are my Iron Maidens, Slayers, and Megadeths, forming the foundation of
my poetic journey. Their collective brilliance has shaped my style, themes, and creative
vision, inspiring me to push boundaries, explore new dimensions of expression, and strive for
excellence in my craft.

3. The Role of Writers in Creating Change
Writers have the power to shape society and influence minds. In your opinion, how does
writing help in creating meaningful change in society? Do you believe that writers have a
responsibility to advocate for social change through their work?
Answer:
Absolutely, I believe writing has immense power to shape society and influence minds. It
serves as a mirror that reflects societal realities, both good and bad, and as a catalyst that
inspires introspection, conversation, and ultimately, change. Writers and poets have the
unique ability to distil complex ideas into words that resonate with readers on a deeply
emotional level, and this emotional connection often drives action.
Take Percy Bysshe Shelley, for example. As I mentioned in my response to your previous
question, Shelly used his poetry not just as an artistic expression but as a powerful tool for
social commentary. In works like ‘The Masque of Anarchy’ and ‘Ode to the West Wind’,
Shelley tackled themes of oppression, political tyranny, and the necessity for revolution. His
impassioned verses served as a rallying cry for justice and liberty, resonating with those who
sought to challenge the status quo. He believed in the transformative power of art, famously
calling poets the “unacknowledged legislators of the world.”

As a poet, I feel a sense of responsibility to engage with the issues of our time. Whether it’s
addressing themes of inequality, environmental degradation, or mental health, writing
provides a platform to provoke thought and inspire dialogue. It allows us to challenge
conventions, present alternative perspectives, and plant seeds of change in the minds of
readers.

That said, advocating for social change doesn’t always have to be overt. Even subtle
storytelling or poetry that humanizes marginalized voices or explores overlooked issues can
contribute to meaningful change. For me, poetry is a way to explore these nuances, blending
art with advocacy, much like Shelley and many other literary giants did.
In essence, while not every writer must take on the mantle of activism, I do believe that those
of us who can use our craft to illuminate truths and inspire progress have a responsibility to
do so. Writing is both a privilege and a power—one that can profoundly shape the way
society perceives and engages with the world.

4. Impact of Writing in India
As an Indian author, how do you think literature impacts the socio-cultural and political
landscape of India? Have you noticed any significant shifts in how people engage with
literature in contemporary India?
Answer:Literature has always played a pivotal role in shaping India’s socio-cultural and political
landscape. As a diverse and dynamic nation, the written word has served as a powerful
medium for preserving our cultural heritage, challenging societal norms, and inspiring
progressive change. From the works of Rabindranath Tagore to contemporary authors like
Amish, Indian literature reflects the evolving identity of our nation while offering a critical lens
through which to understand its complexities.

Rabindranath Tagore, for instance, through his novels, poems, and essays, profoundly
influenced the Indian freedom struggle and cultural revival. His novel ‘Gora’, for instance,
delves into themes of identity, nationalism, and religion, encouraging readers to question rigid
societal structures. Tagore’s literature did not just document India’s struggles but also
envisioned a future built on harmony and universal values.
Similarly, another name which comes to mind is Bhisham Sahni, whose works, particularly
‘Tamas’, offer a stark exploration of India’s socio-political fabric during the Partition. Through
vivid storytelling, Sahni humanized the pain of displacement, communal violence, and identity
crises, compelling readers to confront the consequences of prejudice and political decisions.
His works remain relevant today as they serve as a cautionary tale about the divisive forces
that still challenge India’s unity.
In contemporary times, we find authors like Amish Tripathi who have revolutionized Indian
literature by reinterpreting ancient Indian lore in a way that resonates with modern audiences.
His Shiva Trilogy and Ram Chandra Series not only celebrate India’s rich heritage but also
address universal themes of leadership, morality, and dharma. By reimagining our dharmic
‘itihaasa’ for a new generation, Amish has sparked renewed interest in Indian culture while
encouraging readers to draw lessons from the past to navigate contemporary challenges.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in how people engage with literature in
India. The advent of digital platforms and social media has democratized access to literature,
allowing regional voices and diverse perspectives to reach a broader audience. There is also
a growing appetite for stories that address contemporary issues like gender equality,
environmental sustainability, and mental health, reflecting the changing priorities of Indian
society.
Thus, literature in India serves as both a mirror and a guide, reflecting the complexities of our
nation while inspiring transformation and therefore Indian authors have continually shaped
the way we understand ourselves and the world around us. As an Indian poet, I see literature
as an enduring bridge between the past, present, and future—a medium through which we
can celebrate our heritage, address our challenges, and envision a more inclusive and
progressive society.

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