In Conversation with the Winner of National Cultural Representation Award

Featuring DR. SRIDEVI SOUNDIRARAJAN

 

Dr. Sridevi Soundirarajan’s current project, Twinchantment Tales: 30 Mystical Adventures from Tamil Nadu, is a deeply personal work that draws inspiration from her childhood and the cherished storytelling of her grandparents. This collection of captivating tales has garnered global recognition, winning prestigious awards such as the Charles Dickens International Book Award, the Ukiyoto Literary Award, INKSPIRE 2.0 Winner, and the Golden Wizard Book Prize 2024. Additionally, the book will soon be translated into Tamil, Japanese, Korean, and Thai, extending its reach to a broader audience. Dr. Soundirarajan’s literary achievements were further honored when she received the National Cultural Representation Award.

Q1) Hello Sridevi, Tell us about your current project
Ans . The name of my current project is Twinchanment Tales .
My current project, Twinchantment Tales: 30 Mystical Adventures from Tamil Nadu, is very close to my heart as it connects deeply to my childhood. Inspired by the nostalgic warmth of my grandparents’ storytelling, I’ve woven a collection of tales that evoke a sense of belonging and heartfelt emotions. Presented as stories within stories, this book has resonated with readers worldwide, earning prestigious accolades like the Charles Dickens International Book Award, Ukiyoto Literary Award,INKSPIRE 2.0 Winner, Golden Wizard Book Prize 2024 and Golden Book Awards 2025. I’m thrilled it will soon be translated into Tamil, Japanese, Korean, and Thai, broadening its reach to diverse cultures.

Q2) Everyone in some or the other ways are deeply connected to their culture. Being from Southern India, is their anything nostalgic that you want to share
Ans: Pongal and Diwali hold a very special place in my heart, as they are deeply intertwined with my childhood memories and Southern Indian roots. Pongal, with its joyous celebrations of harvest, the aroma of freshly cooked sweet Pongal, and decorating the courtyard with vibrant kolams, evokes a sense of gratitude and community. Diwali brings back the excitement of lighting lamps, bursting crackers, and relishing festive sweets with loved ones. These festivals symbolize togetherness, love, and tradition, reminding me of the warmth and values my family instilled in me. They continue to inspire my work and resonate in my storytelling.

q3)Do you feel culture plays an important role for an author?


Ans:Absolutely, culture plays a vital role for an author. It shapes our identity, influences our perspective, and adds depth to our storytelling. Being rooted in my Southern Indian heritage, I find endless inspiration in its traditions, festivals, folklore, and values. These cultural nuances enrich my narratives, making them relatable and authentic while offering readers a glimpse into my world. Culture not only serves as a creative reservoir but also bridges diverse audiences, fostering understanding and connection. As an author, weaving cultural elements into my work allows me to celebrate my roots while sharing universal emotions and timeless lessons.

Q4) Coming to writing ,which of yours composition have been your personal favourite so far ?
Ans : TMy book Twinchantment Tales: 30 Mystical Adventures from Tamil Nadu is one of my personal favorites and closest to my heart. The inspiration stems from my current residence, famous for turmeric, which influenced the book’s theme and the turmeric-colored cover design. The stories weave magical fantasies around Tamil Nadu’s cultural gems, aiming to reconnect today’s children—often engrossed in digital media—with the joy of bedtime storytelling and the warmth of a grandparent’s tales. The fictional place Mithilapuram, inspired by Mithila from Ramayan, adds a nostalgic resonance. With each story carrying a moral, it offers a delightful yet meaningful reading experience.

 

Q5)Does to the culture of a particular place help in setting the story as an Author?
Ans: Absolutely, the culture of a place plays a significant role in setting the story for an author. It provides a rich backdrop, adding authenticity and depth to the narrative. For me, Tamil Nadu’s vibrant traditions, folklore, and heritage have been a constant source of inspiration. Cultural elements like festivals, art forms, and local legends not only enhance the storytelling but also create a strong emotional connection with readers. By immersing the characters and plot in the essence of a place, the story becomes more relatable and evocative, allowing readers to experience the richness of a culture while journeying through the narrative.

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