Conversation with Preeti Shenoy

Preeti Shenoy is a prominent figure in the Indian literary scene, celebrated as one of the top-selling authors in the country. Born and raised in India, she has become a household name, known for her insightful narratives on life and relationships. With a writing style that resonates with a vast audience, Shenoy has carved a niche for herself in the literary world.

Her popularity is evident not only through her impressive book sales but also by her inclusion in the Forbes longlist of the most influential celebrities in India. This recognition speaks volumes about the impact of her work and the connection she has forged with readers. India Today has lauded her as a unique presence in the best-selling league, highlighting her as the only woman in this esteemed category.

Preeti Shenoy's literary contributions have transcended borders, with her work being translated into numerous languages. This global reach has further solidified her status as a noteworthy author. In 2017, Brands Academy honored her with the 'Indian of the Year' award for her significant contribution to literature. The New Delhi Institute of Management also recognized her excellence, presenting her with the Academia award for Business Excellence.

Apart from her accomplishments in the literary world, Preeti Shenoy has actively engaged with various audiences through talks and presentations. She has shared her insights in premier educational institutions such as IITs and IIMs, as well as corporate organizations including KPMG, Infosys, and Accenture. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences showcases her versatility as a speaker and influencer.

Beyond writing, Preeti Shenoy is a multi-talented individual. Her prowess extends to the realm of visual arts, where she specializes in portraiture and illustrated journaling. Her artistic endeavors add another layer to her creative expression and contribute to her well-rounded identity.

Shenoy's literary journey includes contributions to various magazines, including Conde Nast and Verve, showcasing her versatility as a writer. She has been featured in prominent media outlets such as BBC World, Cosmopolitan, The Hindu, Verve, and Times of India, further solidifying her presence in the public eye.

In addition to her books, Shenoy maintains a popular blog and wrote a weekly column in The Financial Chronicle for many years. Her online following is massive, reflecting the widespread appeal of her work. Her interests span beyond writing, encompassing travel, photography, and yoga, providing glimpses into the diverse facets of her personality.

As she continues to captivate readers with her engaging storytelling, Preeti Shenoy's latest focus lies on her new book, "All the Love You Deserve." With her track record of success and a dedicated fan base, it's certain that Shenoy's literary journey will continue to unfold with tales that resonate with the human experience.

1. You're recognized as one of the top-selling authors in India and have achieved significant acclaim for your work. How did your journey into writing begin, and what inspired you to become an author?

Preeti Shenoy : My journey into writing began quite organically. I have always been passionate about expressing myself creatively, whether through art or words and have written since the age of five when I learnt how to write. The inspiration to become an author struck me when I realized the power of storytelling to connect with people on a deep emotional level. My debut novel, "34 Bubblegums and Candies," was a collection of short stories inspired by real-life incidents, and it marked the beginning of my writing career. However it was my second book 'Life is what you make it' which saw remarkable success, having sold over a million copies.

2. Forbes has listed you on the longlist of the most influential celebrities in India, and you've been named the only woman in the best-selling league by India Today. How does this recognition impact your approach to writing, and do you feel any added responsibility as a prominent female author?

Preeti Shenoy : Being recognized by Forbes and India Today is indeed an honor, and it brings a sense of responsibility. As the only woman in the best-selling league, I feel a duty to represent and empower women through my work. I aim to bring diverse perspectives to my stories and address issues that resonate with a broad audience. The recognition motivates me to continue contributing meaningfully to the literary landscape.

3. Your contribution to literature has earned you the 'Indian of the Year' award from Brands Academy. Could you share with us how your writing has evolved over the years, and what themes or messages you aim to convey through your books?

Preeti Shenoy : Receiving the 'Indian of the Year' award was a humbling experience. Over the years, my writing has evolved as I delve into various themes and genres. While my early works focused on personal growth and relationships, I have since explored themes such as familial bonds, societal expectations, and the pursuit of one's innermost dreams, and staying true to one's life purpose. Through my books, I aim to convey messages of resilience, self-discovery, and the beauty of human connections.

4. Your works, such as "A Hundred Little Flames," "It’s All In The Planets," and "The One You Cannot Have," cover a wide range of themes. How do you decide on the topics for your books, and is there a particular genre or theme you find most compelling to explore?

Preeti Shenoy : Choosing topics for my books is a dynamic process. Often, real-life experiences, observations, or societal issues inspire me. I am drawn to exploring the intricacies of relationships, the human psyche, and the dynamics of modern life. I don't confine myself to a specific genre, allowing me the freedom to experiment with different themes and storytelling styles.

5. Your latest book, "All the Love You Deserve," has garnered significant attention. Can you provide a glimpse into the inspiration behind this book and what readers can expect from it?

Preeti Shenoy : "All the Love You Deserve" is a story that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. It draws inspiration from the nuances of human emotions and relationships. Readers can expect a poignant narrative that explores the transformative power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.

6. In addition to writing, you're also an artist specializing in portraiture and illustrated journaling. How do your artistic pursuits influence your writing, and vice versa?

Preeti Shenoy : My artistic pursuits, especially portraiture and illustrated journaling, complement my writing. Both involve keen observation and the ability to capture emotions. Illustrating scenes or characters from real life helps me visualize them more vividly. Similarly, writing enhances my ability to express emotions in my art as I write detailed descriptions in my illustrated journal.

7. With a massive online following, including a popular blog, how do you engage with your readers? How has the online community influenced your writing process and the topics you choose to explore?

Preeti Shenoy : Engaging with my readers is a priority for me. My blog and social media platforms serve as channels for meaningful interactions. Reader feedback is something I am grateful for. People tell me my writing changed their lives and that's very overwhelming. What bigger recognition can a writer ask for? The online community also provides good insights into the things that matter to them.

8. You've spoken at prestigious institutions like IITs and IIMs, as well as corporate organizations. How do these experiences and interactions shape your perspective on life and relationships, which are central themes in your writing?

Preeti Shenoy : Speaking at institutions and corporate organizations has broadened my perspective on life and relationships. Interacting with diverse audiences has exposed me to varied viewpoints and experiences, enriching my understanding of human dynamics. These interactions sometimes might find their way into my narratives, adding depth and authenticity.

9. Beyond writing, you have interests in travel, photography, and yoga. How do you balance these diverse pursuits with your writing career, and do they inspire your creative process?

Preeti Shenoy : Balancing diverse interests with writing can be challenging but also enriching. Travel, photography, and yoga serve as outlets for rejuvenation and inspiration. These pursuits contribute to my creative process by offering new perspectives and experiences that find their way into my writing.

10. Can you provide any insights into your upcoming projects or areas you're excited to explore in your future literary endeavors?

Preeti Shenoy : I'm excited about the upcoming projects that explore the complexities of human relationships, personal growth, and societal expectations. I plan to continue experimenting with different genres and themes, pushing the boundaries of my storytelling. Stay tuned for more stories that explore the diverse tapestry of life.