Conversation with Author Mayank Rajput

1. Was there a specific moment when you realized you wanted to be a writer?

Not really. I can’t point to one defining moment when I thought, “Yes, I can be a writer.” But I grew up listening to stories from my mumma and grandma, and that always made me curious. As I grew older, I found myself enjoying writing essays and short moral stories. That’s really where it all began. The Glory of Ashwatthama feels like a natural extension of that flow.

2. Has any author—or anyone else—influenced this story?

Not directly. But I did read The Hidden Hindu, and that book pushed me to take The Glory of Ashwatthama more seriously. Before reading it, I was just making up stories around Ashwatthama randomly. Afterward, I felt more focused and determined to actually write this book.

3. Could you tell us where you got the idea and inspiration to write this book?

A lot of people portray Ashwatthama as a villain. I already knew bits of his backstory, and it made me curious. I wanted to share with people that their assumptions weren’t entirely true. That idea — showing another side of Ashwatthama — drove me to write this book.

4. As an author, what challenges have you faced while working on this book?

Honestly, I didn’t face many challenges. The biggest one was balancing college studies while crafting a story at the same time. That was tough. Otherwise, I didn’t encounter huge hurdles during the writing process.

5. What can readers expect to find in this book?

They’ll find a blend of mythology and modernity, woven together in a unique way.

6. If you were Parth, would you have explored the temple or ignored the dreams?

Of course, I would! The characters in the story are reflections of me — my thoughts, my feelings, my identity. If given the chance, I’d definitely explore the temple.

7. There’s often debate that stories like the Mahabharata and Ramayana are myths. What is your perspective on that?

That’s a tricky one because it really depends on perspective. As we say, “Kankar me bhi Shankar hai” — God exists even in the smallest stone. It’s ultimately a matter of faith. Some people will consider the Ramayana and Mahabharata as real events, while others won’t. We can’t “prove” them by conversation; belief plays the biggest role here.

8. Ashwatthama is not a widely celebrated character and is often portrayed as a villain. What inspired you to write a story that encourages readers to see him differently?

Almost everyone sees Ashwatthama as a villain, but that’s not the complete truth. Let’s look back: in Treta Yug, Ravana’s sins crossed the threshold of adharma, forcing Lord Vishnu to take birth and end him. Similarly with Kansa. But in Ashwatthama’s case, you’ll never really find anything evil that he did — except one thing: disobeying Lord Krishna out of anger and revenge. That single act led to his curse and the villain label. This contrast fascinated me and pushed me to write a story showing he’s not what most people think of him.

9. If readers take away just one message from your book, what should it be?

“Never make a decision in anger.” Ashwatthama’s downfall and curse were entirely because of anger and revenge.

10. The story begins with children asking who is the most heroic character in the Mahabharata. What is your personal view on that question?

It’s clear that Lord Krishna was the most heroic of all. But if we look beyond him, among the Pandavas and Kauravas, I’d choose Karna and Yudhishthir. They never went against dharma and always stood by the truth, even knowing the consequences.

11. Do you already have a new idea or project brewing for your next work?

Yes, I’m currently working on two projects: the sequel to The Glory of Ashwatthama and a horror fiction novel.

12. How has this writing journey been for you, from start to finish?

It’s been very meaningful. I learned a lot throughout the journey, and it taught me many lessons. Overall, it’s been a truly enriching experience as a writer.

13. Finally, what advice would you like to give to upcoming authors?

The only advice I’d share is what has been passed down in my family — from my grandfather to my father, and then to me: Never stop believing. Just take action on whatever you want, and nature will always bless you with it.