An important purpose of literature is to show the mirror to society. And, modern-day authors play an important role in doing that. We are proud to introduce you to one such author – Hanisha Varma.
She is a debut author and her book ‘Padhi Likhi Gawar’ divulges the issues that modern-day daughters and daughters-in-law face in their daily lives in the name of ‘prathas’ (traditional customs).
We had an exclusive interview with author Hanisha Varma and she candidly shared with us about her life, writing career, and more. Before we get into that, let us first introduce the author.
About the Author: Hanisha Varma
Born and brought up in Mumbai, Hanisha Varma is the author of the book ‘Padhi Likhi Gawar’ which was published in 2021. Not only an author, but she is also a Certified Fraud Examiner, Youtuber, and Blogger.
On one hand, Hanisha’s book spreads awareness about the so-called old customs that women today are forced to obey. While, on the other hand, she creates awareness about cyber fraud through her blog and youtube channel.
Hanisha belongs to a Gujrati Patel family and got married to Ajay Varma from North India. Her father, Mr. Shantilal Wadikar is retired and her mother, Mrs. Nirmala Wadikar is a homemaker; both living happy life in Gujarat.
Further, we asked her about her early life, her experiences that turned into the book, and how she went on to become a writer. Read her interesting answers below.
What were you like at school? Any childhood memory you would like to share.
I was a very introverted girl and but always fascinated by media and creative things, I wanted to become a doctor in school time and then realized it involves cost so due to the lower-middle-class family background I learned being a doctor is a little impossible.
In 1990, there were social media or guidance to pursue your dream. I visited Mahyavanshi community program once with my parents and my father insisted I participate in the singing competition. I was very scared and was not confident but because my pappa forced me many times, I tried and I won some prize that boosted my confidence in my school time. Before this incident, I was never able to talk or speak in front of the public. Whenever I feel low I remember that day. I still remember that stage, my dress, my mom dad’s attire, my hairstyle.
What is your biggest achievement till today?
I have monetized my youtube channel called Hany&tech in 4 and half months and written my book called “Padhi Likhi Gawar”
Which writers inspire you?
I have read Napolean Hills’ “Think and grow reach” and it inspired me a lot.
Writing is stressful at times. How do you relax your mind?
I prefer to write at night when there is no noise, no calls, no disturbance. I just close my eyes and talk to myself and relax. Self-talking is the best in my every victory from war.
What is your favorite motivational phrase?
The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
– Mark Twain
Don’t limit yourself.
Lakho kho ke Karodo ka experience paya he.
– Hanisha Varma
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Work on self-improvement.
Learn something daily.
Learn with the mistakes.
What books do you like to read personally? What are you reading currently?
I like to read books on awareness and influence. I am currently reading the psychology influence of persuasion by Robert B Cialdini, Ph.D.
If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?
I could have been the original author of any book which describes how to control emotions in anger and happiness. I have learned a lot after observing many people around me.
What made you decide to sit down and actually start writing? Any exact moment or life event?
I have observed and experienced treatment given to an Indian woman when she is working and has to handle so many things. I have heard many times people call a girl when she sometimes acts silly because of some unpleasant situation with her so decided to write “Padhi Likhi Gawar”.
Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?
I write in the nighttime.
What is the reason you write for; is it for the readers or your own self or some other thing?
I write to share my thoughts with world.
Want to create some influence.
Want to create some change in the society
About the Book: Padhi Likhi Gawar
Padhi Likhi Gawar by Hanisha Varma is a compilation of short stories touching on a few sensitive topics related to old traditions and expectations from daughters and daughters-in-law within the society.
It depicts how women are forced and expected to follow family traditions and also fulfill certain expectations that have no concern with her being ethical or an unethical person once being married. And, when that does not happen, they are titled Padhi Likhi Gawar.
Author Hanisha Varma shared more about her book Padhi Likhi Gawar and her future plans. Read further to find out.
What genre is your book? What draws you to this genre?
Historical Nonfiction. Observed the world and tradition.
What makes ‘Padhi Likhi Gawar’ to stand out? What should a reader expect from it?
Read to understand woman, respect her challenges, want to create awareness what is the history of some tradition, why such tradition started, what is the repercussion of this tradition when a working corporate woman has to follow some old customs.
Your book highlights social issues that modern women face every day. What is the hardest & the easiest thing while writing such a book?
Hardest was that experience which I faced people will understand my voice. Easiest was support from family, spouse to write this book.
As this is based on your real-life experience, any special memory while writing that you would like to share.
Yes – Some. I have written this book in two nights and my husband was helping me to find out the roots of some culture.
‘Padhi Likhi Gawar’ is a quick read with just 37 pages. Any specific reason for this? How would you convince the readers to spend on this book?
Being a first-time author, I wanted to put my thoughts with minimum but clear words. The title of the book will definitely connect people who sometimes called some woman “Padhi Likhi Gawar” I think after reading this book they will understand her side of the story.
Future Plans
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I have also started writing my blogs on cyber fraud awareness. So I want to write till my last day of life. My website name is hanyandtech.com
Are you working on your new project? What will be your next book about?
Yes – I want to keep it a surprise!
What does success mean to you as an Author?
Success means reaching the correct audience and delivering my message is success for me.
What do you think of India’s publishing industry’s future?
Indian Publishing Industry has given significant changes and I am sure we will have a lot of changes and new style which will boost the industry.
One learning that you’d like to pass on to young debut authors.
Whatever comes to mind related to your book make a note of it when you are occupied in your work. The addition of small, small points will help you to write a complete book.
Your opinion about Vowelor.
Vowelor team is very supportive and creative.
Want to know more about Hanisha? Connect with the author on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or visit his official website.
