Lalitha Balasubramanian is a freelance Journalist and has written hundreds of articles on varied topics related to health, travel, education and parenting for several newspapers and magazines including The Times of India and Discover India. She does dabble in blogging once in a while, and her love for writing is mirrored in her books and articles. When she is not writing, she is a voracious reader, compulsive traveller, nature lover, music and fine arts enthusiast and a believer in ‘living life to the full’.
‘On the Krishna Trail’ is her fourth book, inspired by her love and avid interest in Hindu Mythology. She has extensively researched and travelled across destinations in five States for a period of almost two years before chronicling this book.
1. Who and what inspired you to write?
I have grown up listening to tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata narrated by first my grandmother and then by my father. This fuelled a passion for reading some original and classic adaptations of these two magnificent epics. I draw my writing inspiration from them. Added to that, I love travel. So travelling to places rendered sacred by virtue of their association with Hindu deities like Sri Krishna, Sri Ram, Mahadev and Goddess Shakti, became an interesting source for my research. I draw my spiritual writing inspiration from the pilgrims who flock these sacred spots. I am immeasurably inspired by the hard work and success stories of ordinary people and curious everyday happenings. These are reflected in my articles and short stories. I love the innocence and curiosity of children and they inspire me to write children’s fiction.
2. What challenges did you face while writing and getting published?
Writing a non-fiction book is a completely different ball game from writing articles or blogs. It involves so much more research and time commitment. While writing this book, I had to travel across five States, which was engrossing, yet it was a real challenge.
3. How did you come to know about the literary agency THE BOOK BAKERS?
While I was browsing the submission guidelines of a few publishing houses I came across the page of The Book Bakers. It drew my interest because Literary Agencies are far and few in India. So I read further and my attention was drawn to the eminent authors they were representing. That’s when I connected with Suhail Mathur and sent across my book proposal to The Book Bakers.
4. How did THE BOOK BAKERS help you and what would you like to say about them?
I submitted my book proposal to Suhail Mathur and was delighted with his quick response. The journey has been so smooth after that. As a writer, it was wonderful to have his guidance at every step. My book cover was beautifully designed by The Book Bakers' talented design team. Here I would like to mention that some of my writer friends referred to The Book Bakers as being among the best in the business of designing book covers. I happily endorse it. Like many other authors, I had very little idea of how to market my book. All in all, it has been a wonderful collaboration.
5. How supportive is your publisher of your work?
My book is being published by Locksley Hall Publishing, and not only have they been extremely supportive, but their inputs regarding the photographs and design were apt, helpful and enhance the book’s appeal. Their personal interest and involvement, their promptness in replies and their willingness to incorporate changes made it a virtual delight to have my book published by them.
6. How do you see literary success for yourself?
I love sharing my thoughts and any information that may be helpful to others. So, for me, if my writing touches a chord with my readers, I am more than happy. That is my success.
7. When can we expect your next book?
I am already working on my next book and hopefully, I expect to complete the manuscript in a few months.
8. How has your experience being working with Locksley Hall Publishing?
Working with Locksley Hall Publishing has been a hassle-free dream. They were helpful, prompt and very easy to interact with. I really appreciate their personal involvement and value additions.
9. Any message or tips for aspiring authors?
Read more. The more you read, the more refined your writing will become. If you are into non-fiction, historical or mythological fiction, take the trouble to research well. Short cuts do not work. Believe in your writing and go ahead.
BOOK NAME: ON THE KRISHNA TRAIL
PUBLISHER : LOCKSLEY HALL PUBLISHING
BOOK SYNOPSIS/BLURB:
“On the Krishna Trail” as the title suggests, is the chronicling of a spiritual journey encompassing the places associated with Sri Krishna during his time on earth. The temple trail begins with Krishna’s birth in a prison cell at Mathura known as Krishna Janmabhoomi and meanders through Gokul and Nandgaon where he spent his childhood. Govardhan becomes sacred because Sri Krishna lifted it to protect his Brajwasis from Indra’s anger. Barsana is Radharani’s home and Vrindavan symbolizes the everlasting love of the divine couple, Radha and Krishna. Ujjain, with its Maharishi Sandipani Ashram, gains significance as the Gurukul of Sri Krishna and Dwarka stands testimony to his reign as a benevolent King. Kurukshetra witnesses the Mahabharat war, where Sri Krishna takes on the role of Parthasarathy and delivers the most important message to humanity through the Bhagavad Gita. Sri Krishna proceeds to his eternal Golokdham from Dehotsarg after a poisoned arrow from a hunter mistakenly strikes his foot at Bhalka Thirth. The book is entirely information driven with the author having personally visited all the places and temples and seeks to serve as a guide for people to plan their visit.
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A wonderful interview of a much talented author! She deserves an applaud for the way she has carved out a journey on the footsteps of the Lord. Every place she describes in the book shows how significant they are when talking about Lord Krishna even in the recent times apart from that in the Dwapar Yug. Jai Sri Krishna!🙏
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