Harshitaa Chauhan Verma is an Indian author and poetess known for her popular book Rhymes Of Life. Her articles, write ups and poetries have been published in more than 250 anthologies, newspapers, online platforms and media. She is a down-to-earth person who is always open to help everyone in need. She promotes Sustainable Development Goals through her works and inspires millions. This makes her persona even more receptive and charismatic. She has received many awards for her charity works which is moreover her natural behaviour. Here are some of the excerpts from her recent interview with us:
1. What inspired you to write the book Rhymes Of Life?
I always wanted to be a writer. Smell of books intoxicated me since my childhood, thus library used to be my favourite place of solace. Writing has been my favourite leisure experience. On any normal day I love observing people and situations. It is all the environment around me which inspires me to pen down emotions. Situations during Covid-19 outbreak were heart wrenching and it was then that, my most of works came in light and appeared in leading magazines and online platform, both nationally as well as internationally.
2. What challenges did you face while researching and writing it?
Although it’s a dream project which was in pipeline for long. It needed extreme courage to put it in front of the audience due to fear of criticism. Many dilemmas were cleared with my husband’s support. As for the part of research, my work is totally plagiarism free, no data has been taken from any resources. Being an avid book reader, I hence intently follow the work of nearly all famous writers. I definitely face writer’s block too, which takes its own sweet time to fade away into the oblivion.
3. What part of the book fascinated you the most as the author?
The book, ‘Rhymes of Life’ is very close to my heart. A few of the pages highlighting women’s role in defining existing society are very close to my heart.
4. What message do you want to convey from this book?
I wish that people can understand the power of words and the manner in which they are spoken. We learn about people through words only and get to know about their intentions. We must understand that we can not stand alone in any circumstance and our life is through the people around us. There must be empathy in our behaviour. Everyone can live for themselves, but the true human is the one who lives for others.
5. What is the most challenging part for an author in general?
For an author most challenging part is to overcome their own insecurities and fears and have faith in their works. They must be ready for all sorts of criticisms. They must let their audience have sufficient time to develop their reading taste as per the writing and work.
6. What are you working on next?
My next project is a collection of short moral stories. I am also devoted to few social causes and work for under-privileged.
7. What keeps you going as a writer?
Writing is my only stress buster. I have got to pen down something to stay sane. All people around me are like stories which I modify according to my mood and perception. It gives me immense pleasure to think that I will be leaving something inspiring and enriching for generations yet to come.
8. If you had to suggest two books for Indian Youth, which would they be and why?
First would be a quiet short read called: Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach, because its very inspiring and quick to read. It has simple language which interest its readers. Second would be my all-time favourite, William Shakespeare and his numerous works.
