Mahi Goyal is an 18 year old young girl who is a student of English Honours in Miranda House, Delhi University. Real Illusion, her first novel is born out of her strong passion for writing. This love has already found its way with her story, Remember The Lily, into an anthology of short stories, Internal Reflection. Launched by Mr. William Dalrymple under the aegis of Taj Literature Festival 2013 held in Agra, it is a book published through Delhi Public School, Agra.
With an innate interest for music, she got her Bhaskar (4th year) Diploma in Indian Classical Vocal Music. She bagged The Best Budding Photographer’s award in Taj Mahotsava, a cultural fiesta held in Agra.
She is an avid reader, an indulgent photographer, a music lover, a travel freak. Often called a solitary reaper, her spiritual inclinations make her calm and content. You might often find her day dreaming or contemplating about life’s mysteries.
1.When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?
I began writing, in general, when I was 11 years old. So there was no conscious realization that I wanted to be a writer. Infact, I still won’t call myself one. I’m a learner and trying to understand and explore the art form that I adore.
2. What inspired you to write?
From very young I have been very fond of reading which is probably why I also chose to study English Honours from Miranda House. But amidst all the numerous books I read, somehow an idea for my own book started shaping in my head. There is no particular person who inspired me to write my characters but it was more so the writing process in itself that inspired me to continue my passion of writing.
3. What is your book Real Illusion about?
The book, Real Illusion is a tale of a woman whose marriage is in shambles. She has lost the vigour in her life and gradually through her own conscious efforts she reignites that fire within herself while finding the silver lining to every grey cloud that comes her way. The book also gives the message of life and urges us all to love ourselves and never lose hope no matter what the situations we face in life.
4. Tell us about your experience while writing the book.
I began writing this book when I was 14 years old and completed it by 17 years of age. It took about 3-4 years to complete. Because of my studies, I could only write in vacations and the book was also maturing along with me. So, the editing process took a lot of time. Writing for me is a process of venting out my emotions on paper, in a way exploring myself through my characters. I wouldn’t say it wasn’t a challenging task. But what I can say with full confidence is that, no matter the struggles, it was all worth it. The writing experience in itself is very rewarding even without the praises or applauds from others.
5. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I wish I could say that I’m a regular writer and have a proper schedule but unfortunately that’s not the case. I’m a student so I indulge in a lot of other things as well like singing, photography, social service, binge watching TV Shows and the occasional studying (read rarely).
6. Why did you choose writing over photography and singing even after achieving awards?
All of these are my hobbies so I wouldn’t say I chose one over the other. I still continue with all of them and enjoy them equally.
7. Who has been your biggest support?
If a person gets the opportunity to publish his book at a young age, they are blessed with very supportive parents. Such was my case. My parents have always encouraged me to follow my passions and they never imposed their wishes on me. Infact, my mother even helped me out enormously with the editing process as well. So yes, I have been very lucky.
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8. Do you have any ideal?
Yes ofcourse! My writing ideals would be Rabindranath Tagore, Ruskin Bond, JK Rowling, Rumi, Dan Brown, Gillian Flynn and many more.
9. What does your family think of your writing?
Like I said, they have been very involved and supportive throughout the whole process. Even now, they like the book more than I do. It was really heart-warming to make them proud because of my little accomplishment.
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10. Are you going to write any book in future?
I do plan to write more for sure. I have few ideas in my mind for the next book, which will be a psychological thriller. But apart from a major project like writing a novel, I do enjoy the occasional writing of prose & poetry as well.
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