Alumni Author: Safeda – Saurabh Kudesia, EGMP 2010

With over two decades of experience as a technical writer and manager in multinational corporations, Saurabh has led cross-border teams and driven innovative content solutions, showcasing his expertise in program management and technical skills. An alumnus of esteemed institutions such as BITS Pilani, IIM Bangalore, Symbiosis Pune, and Bhopal University, he blends a strong analytical mindset with a passion for creative storytelling.

An avid traveler and lifelong learner, Saurabh has ventured into the literary world, authoring six thriller novels and a psycho-thriller audiobook available on Audible. His works, deeply influenced by mythology, psychology, and crime narratives, have earned him accolades, including the prestigious Munshi Premchand Literature Award 2023. In this interview, Saurabh shares insights into his creative process, his fascination with ancient texts like the Mahabharata, and his journey as a storyteller bridging tradition and innovation.

Can you start by telling us about yourself and your journey as an author? 

I wasn’t born a writer, but I chose to become one. My passion for writing began early, around 4th grade, when I started crafting short stories as part of my language practice. I was also proud of my handwriting, which earned me several accolades at a young age. As I grew older, my passion for writing evolved, and I began contributing technology articles to well-known magazines.

After graduation, I developed a deep interest in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, which led me to explore Vedic philosophy and read other ancient texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. It was during these years that the idea for my debut novel series began to take shape. Meanwhile, my career as a technical writer also progressed, and I moved into management roles with increasing responsibilities.

What inspired you to start writing, and how did you discover your passion for storytelling? 

My fascination with writing has always been fueled by its ability to leave a lasting impact on readers. The idea for my debut book series was ignited by my deep curiosity about the Mahabharata in 2003. Over the next 15 years, I immersed myself in researching the subject, collecting historical fragments, and weaving them into a cohesive narrative. This natural progression in my writing journey ultimately led me to storytelling. However, it took another 15-17 years to refine my ideas, blend them with fiction, and finally put them on paper. It has been a long but immensely fulfilling journey to get here.

Many of your works, like *Aahwan*, draw from Hindu scriptures and mythology. What sparked your interest in these themes, and how do you approach interpreting them for modern readers? 

My interest in Hindu scriptures and mythology stems from the way they blend history and culture, with mythology often influencing historical narratives and vice versa. I believe that while mythology and history are distinct, they are deeply interconnected, and this complexity is what makes interpreting them both challenging and fascinating. When portraying historical characters in mythological contexts, it’s important to avoid reducing them to stereotypes and to consider the full depth of their personalities and actions.

In my Aahvan series of books based on the Mahabharata, I strive to create a fresh and original narrative while staying true to the spirit of the source material. I balance creative freedom with respect for the cultural, religious, and historical traditions I draw from. I believe that while it is crucial to understand the myths, legends, and cultural contexts, maintaining accuracy and fidelity to the original narratives is key to preserving authenticity and respect for these ancient stories, especially for modern readers.

Your recent book *Safeda* has an intriguing title. What inspired the story, and what does the title symbolize? 

Safeda is a psycho-crime thriller that follows Sanjeev, the Director of the Central Crime Investigation, as he teams up with his old partner, Dr. Suri, a criminologist, to solve the mysterious kidnapping of 27 influential individuals. These victims return with complete amnesia, having no recollection of their past lives.

The story is inspired by the concept of karma from the Bhagavad Gita, which teaches that our actions, though forgotten, continue to shape our lives. The victims’ amnesia in the novel symbolizes this truth: even when past wrongs are forgotten, their consequences endure. The title Safeda represents purity, hope, and redemption, contrasting with black, symbolizing evil and corruption. It reflects the possibility of renewal even in dark times and explores the idea of individuals trying to “whitewash” their wrongs with good deeds to balance their karma, despite the spiritual consequences. The title embodies the novel’s themes of justice, punishment, and the moral struggle between right and wrong.

Writing in Hindi comes with unique challenges and opportunities. How do you see the future of Hindi literature in today’s literary landscape? 

The future of Hindi literature presents both challenges and opportunities. Digital platforms and social media offer new avenues for writers to reach global audiences. Younger generations, particularly in urban areas, are rediscovering their cultural roots, leading to a renewed interest in Hindi literature. Writers are exploring diverse themes and modern storytelling, appealing to both traditional and younger readers. With genres like science fiction and fantasy gaining traction, Hindi literature has the potential to grow and remain relevant in the global literary scene.

Many readers prefer audiobooks for convenience. Are there any plans to release your books, including *Safeda*, in an audible format? 

Yes, all my books, including Safeda, are already available in audio format on Audible. You can find them at this link.

How has your time at IIM Bangalore influenced your writing journey or creative process? 

My time at IIM Bangalore had a significant impact on my writing journey and creative process. While it was primarily a business-focused environment, it helped me develop a strong analytical mindset, which has been valuable in structuring and refining my narratives. The exposure to diverse perspectives and the rigorous problem-solving approach at IIM also influenced how I approach storytelling—by weaving complexity into characters and plots and considering multiple viewpoints. Additionally, the discipline and focus I developed during my time there have helped me stay committed to my writing, ensuring that I balance creativity with consistency. Overall, my IIM experience has provided me with both the intellectual tools and the work ethic to pursue my passion for writing with greater clarity and purpose.

Are you working on new projects or exploring themes beyond what you’ve written so far? 

Yes, I’m currently working on a few exciting projects across different genres. These new works will explore fresh themes and offer a diverse range of narratives, allowing me to experiment with different storytelling styles and perspectives. I’m eager to share more details soon!