Books and Beyond with Bound

What if one secret could shatter everything you thought you knew about your family?In this episode, Bhavika Govil dives into her haunting, lyrical novel Hot Water, a coming-of-age story about the silences that pull families apart.Bhavika talks about the novel's striking water motif and the emotional and craft challenges of writing Ashu, a 14-year-old boy and Meera, a 9-year-old girl, and trying to make them feel both real and raw.This episode takes a deep dive into understanding family dramas better, and how writing about what's left unsaid is often more powerful than spelling things out. It's a sharp, intimate, and deeply thoughtful episode on the stories we carry long after they're over.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Tried a fad diet and a get-rich scheme, but failed to do both? Let's talk about what actually works.Ankush Datar, the author of The Health and Wealth Paradox, breaks down the complexities of health and financial planning by getting back to the core principles. His unique approach explains how managing your health and wealth isn't so different after all. In this episode, Tara Khandelwal and Ankush explore how first principles thinking, mental barriers, and everyday habits shape our ability to stay consistent and make smarter decisions in both areas.If you've ever felt overwhelmed with the amount of information available about managing your health and wealth, this conversation offers fresh insights and practical tips to simplify the process. Ankush's approach will help you understand that it's just not that complicated once you've gotten your basics set. Books, shows, and films mentioned in this episode:Ankush's favourite authors: Morgan Housel & James ClearDopamine Nation by Anna LembkeStop Reading the News by Rolf DobelliThe Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf DobelliSame as Ever by Morgan HouselDollars and Sense by Dr. Dan ArielyThe Psychology of Money by Morgan HouselOutlive by Bill Gifford and Peter AttiaAtomic Habits by James Clear‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Lost in Translation? Or Found in the Process?In this episode, we talk to Gowri Ramnarayan and Kamalakar Bhat, two translators dedicated to bringing Tamil and Kannada texts to life in English. Gowri shares the complex challenges of translating her grandfather's historical novel, Ponniyin Selvan, from seamlessly blending poetry into prose to interpreting the layered meanings of cultural expressions. Kamalakar opens up about his translation of Kirtinath Kurtkoti's essays, Courtesy of Criticism, and how the process often involves reconstructing missing historical context and striking a balance between accuracy and accessibility. Together, they explore how translation is not just linguistic work but a journey into the heart of a text.If you've ever wondered what it takes to translate a story without losing its soul, this episode is for you. Expect insights, behind-the-scenes secrets, and a fresh perspective on the art of bringing Indian literature to the world.Books, shows and films mentioned in this episode:Yugadharma Haagu Sahitya Darshana (Kannada) by Kirtinath KurtkotiSakina's Kiss by Vivek ShanbhagGhachar Ghochar by Vivek ShanbhagMithun Number Two and Other Mumbai Stories by Jayant KaikiniTejo Tungabhadra by VasudhendraAuthor recommendations:SalmaImaya Kumar JagannathanPrapanchanMogalli GaneshAbdul RasheedH. S. Shivaprakash‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What happens when the love of family feels more like a battlefield?In her debut novel Famous Last Questions, Sanjana Ramachandran explores the messy, painful, and sometimes beautiful struggle of growing up caught between parental expectations and the search for your true self. With sharp honesty and warmth, she dives into themes of rebellion, identity, and the healing power of mindfulness.Join Tara and Sanjana as they trace her journey—from getting kicked out of BITS Pilani to writing the viral “Sanjana Effect” article that sparked a conversation about cultural pressures, and finally to publishing her debut novel. It's a story of resilience, courage, and finding your own voice against the odds.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Are the wrong people making the biggest decisions at your company?Tara and Michelle talk to Jennifer Sundberg—co-founder of Board Intelligence and co-author of Collective Intelligence—about why most leadership teams are flying blind. They dive into how poorly framed questions and bloated reports sabotage decision-making, why writing is thinking, and how to fix broken systems from the inside out. With examples ranging from NASA to FTSE boardrooms, this episode is a masterclass on designing cultures where the smartest ideas, not the loudest voices, win.In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors and writers who captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Should we boycott problematic authors—or just read them with guilt? Tara and Michelle dive into the messy politics of author scandals, from cancel culture to complicity. Plus, what happens when AI writes a book? Would you read it? Should it even exist?Tune in for a no-holds-barred chat on the ethics of art, the limits of accountability, and how readers can show up for real authors in a shifting industry. They also spill on their own reading dilemmas and the murky line between loving the work and questioning the creator.Books mentioned:Train to Pakistan by Khushwant SinghDalit Kitchen of Marathwada by Shahu PatoleBooks by Janice Pariat The Twits by Roald DahlJasoda by Kiran NagarkarFault In Our Stars by John GreenNeopolitan Novels by Elena FerranteHarry Potter Series By J.K. Rowling‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What do a privileged student with a saviour complex and an ambitious outsider in Bollywood have in common? Debut authors Nayantara Alva and Puneet Sikka take us into two very different Indias—one set in a liberal arts college, the other on a chaotic film set. Tara and Michelle chat with the authors about their writing processes, the themes that shaped their coming-of-age novels, and how they brought their lived experiences to the page. Nayantara unpacks creative burnout, messiness in friendships, and reclaiming self-worth. Puneet explores reinvention, reality TV, and what it means to be seen.If you're curious about how authors build layered, complex characters or want a peek behind the scenes of the Indian creative industry, this episode's for you.Books, shows and films mentioned in this episode:Calling Sehmat - Harinder S. SikkaKimino NawaWomen Who Run with the Wolves - Clarissa Pinkola EstésThe Artist's Way - Julia CameronFleabag - Phoebe Waller-BridgeThe Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz ZafónGirl, Woman, Other - Bernardine EvaristoBody Kintsugi- Senka Marić‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Tara talks to journalist and debut author Atharva Pandit, whose novel Hurda is inspired by a real-life case that briefly made headlines in 2013, and then vanished.What begins as a mystery about three missing girls from a village in Maharashtra becomes a statement on what gets remembered and what gets buried. Atharva shares how a two-page newspaper feature became the seed for a decade-long creative journey. He discusses the blurry boundaries between fact and fiction, and how he built an entire village of voices, each with their own secrets and silences. The episode also delves into the quiet power of clothing, especially that green top that became a symbol of much more. Tara and Atharva explore why rural women's lives so often go unheard, and how fiction can offer them space, dignity, and depth.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever wondered how translators breathe life into stories across languages? Or what it takes to bring the essence of one culture into another?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara and Michelle unravel the secrets of literary translation with two of India's finest: Arunava Sinha, who has translated over 80 masterpieces, and Ministhy S., known for her thought-provoking translations of powerful and diverse narratives.From the untold struggles of salt farmers in Gujarat to a coffin maker's poignant tale, Arunava and Ministhy reveal how they navigate the challenges of capturing a story's soul while juggling cultural nuances and creative integrity. They also dive into the highs and lows of being a translator in India—breaking stereotypes, fighting for recognition, and dealing with the constant questions. In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we spotlight two renowned translators, Arunava Sinha and Ministhy S., as they unravel the art of translation, the cultural bridges it builds, and the challenges of bringing Indian stories to a global audience. Listen in as they reveal the joys, challenges, and transformative power of bringing stories to life across languages and cultures.Books mentioned in this episode:Pratham Pratishruti - Ashapurna Devi Bakul Katha - Ashapurna Devi Enid Blyton One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia MarquezGregory Rabassa Meerasadhu - K.R MeeraNandakumar K.Fathima E.VAnthea BellAnton HurHospital Poems of Mathematics and Madness - Binoy MajumdarImaan - Manoranjan Byapari ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Curious about how contemporary fiction explores women's sexuality, family, and the messy transition into adulthood?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara and Michelle sit down with Anisha Lalvani to discuss her debut novel, Girls Who Stray, a coming-of-age story set in Noida. The novel follows A, a 23-year-old literature graduate, as she navigates love, family, and a tangle of crime and self-discovery.Anisha shares how her background in publishing and television influenced her storytelling, as well as the seven-year journey of writing and refining her book. She shares how the idea of her protagonist becoming an escort came to her suddenly, inspired by her belief in women owning their sexuality. She opens up about the challenges of portraying complex, relatable characters and how the title of the novel evolved during the publishing process.Listen in as Anisha dives into the creative process, the themes of family and self-discovery, and how she crafted a story that resonates with today's generation.Books Mentioned in this Episode: A Bad Character - Deepti Kapoor Age of Vice - Deepti Kapoor Gone Girl - Gillian Flynn The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Stieg LarssonFrances Ha - Film by Noam BaumbachCNTRL - Film by Vikramaditya MotwaneGirl Interrupted - Film by James Mangold‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

How do teenage years shape the way we view the world around us?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara chat with 20-year-old author and philosophy blogger Saania Saxena about her debut book, Teenage Chronicles. Saania, who started her blog at just 12 to cope with school pressures, created a book that features five relatable teenage characters navigating emotions like jealousy, anger, and the complexities of friendships.Saania shares how her book combines scientific insights with personal anecdotes, helping readers better understand and manage their emotions. Each character is inspired by people Saania has met, and their stories aim to guide readers towards greater self-awareness. From her early blog readership of school friends to reaching a global audience, Saania talks about how she published the first version of this book at just 16 with a global publisher and her future aspirations in writing.In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Tune in to hear how Teenage Chronicles mirrors the joys, challenges, and complexity of adolescence, making it a must-read for anyone seeking connection and self-awareness.Books Mentioned in this episode: Tuesdays with Morrie - Mitch Albom Lean In - Sheryl SandbergSophie's World - Jostien Gaarder‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What do a right-wing YouTube creator and a small-town salesgirl have in common? In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara sit down with Prayaag Akbar, author of Mother India, to explore the intersections of identity, ambition, and the rapid transformations of urban India. Through the lives of Mayank, a right-wing YouTuber, and Nisha, a small-town salesgirl navigating Delhi's class-driven chaos, Prayaag examines the human cost of our obsession with relevance and validation.Prayaag shares the creative journey behind his novel, from an abandoned historical fiction project to crafting this sharp and modern tale. He dives into the complexities of balancing flawed, relatable characters with a fast-moving narrative, revealing how Delhi itself became a character in the book. With conversations about social media's real-world impact, the power of motivation in storytelling, and the soul of a city in flux, this episode is packed with insights for readers and writers alike.If you've ever wondered what makes a novel both timely and timeless, or how fiction can capture the pulse of a city, this episode is for you.Books Mentioned in this episode: Leila - Prayaag Akbar A Visit from the Goon Squad - Jennifer Egan You Envy the Coutinhos and Other Migrants in the Middle East - Michelle D'CostaTemporary People - Deepak Unnikishan Deepti KapoorShivani Sibal Anjum Hasan ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Curious about how fiction unravels the complexities of identity and migration?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara sit down with Ammar Kalia, author of A Person is a Prayer, and Ram Murali, author of Death in the Air, to discuss their remarkable debut novels.Ammar Kalia explores the ripple effects of migration on family dynamics through the lens of Bedi's journey from Kenya to India. Ram Murali's Death in the Air takes readers to an Indian Himalayan spa, combining Agatha Christie-style intrigue with contemporary questions about justice and identity.Both authors share how their diverse personal backgrounds shaped their storytelling, offering a window into the immigrant experience, family relationships, and the spiritual undertones of their narratives.In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we highlight two emerging voices in fiction, delving into their creative processes, the role of memory in shaping stories, and the layered themes that make their novels so compelling.Tune in as Ammar and Ram share their thoughts on navigating the intersection of migration and identity, the challenges of balancing mystery with meaning, and the stories that inspired their unforgettable characters.Books Mentioned in this episode: The Namesake - Jhumpa LahiriThe Believers - Zoë HellerOn Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous - Ocean Vuong Whose Body? - Dorothy L. Sayers ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

As India rises on the world stage, what stories and narratives are we ready to share?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara and Michelle speak with author Sriram Devtha the author of Amrut:  The Great Churn. Diving into the heart of Indian brands that have received global recognition with Amrut Distilleries, a brand pushing boundaries in the whiskey market. We explore the journey from its early days to becoming a major soft power player, reaching enthusiasts in Sweden. They discuss the crucial moments in Amrut's rise, like the fusion story and how pivotal figures shaped the brand, from finance head Lakshmanan, who's been with the company for 50 years, to the distillery's unique culture, where trust in people is key.Sriram reflects on what it takes to build an enduring brand, sharing his approach to narrative nonfiction. He seamlessly weaves personal stories of Amrut's founding family, their challenges, and triumphs, creating stories that resonate both locally and internationally. Listen in as Sriram reveals how Amrut, a small Indian whiskey brand, took the world by storm. He shares personal insights into the Amrut family legacy and explores how Indian brands can become global icons. Books mentioned in this episode: Cutting for Stone - Abraham VergheseCovenant of Water - Abraham Verghese Big Billion Startup - Mihir Dalal ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Curious about India's unique relationship with the environment and the often-overlooked heroes who shaped it?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara welcome celebrated historian Dr. Ramachandra Guha, and talk about his recent book Speaking with Nature. Known for his extensive work on Gandhi, Dr. Guha now uncovers the lives of Indian environmentalists who, since the 19th century, championed sustainable ways of living in harmony with nature. From literary icon Rabindranath Tagore to the indomitable Meera Ben, each figure in Dr. Guha's latest book highlights a different angle of ‘livelihood environmentalism', an approach where nature conservation goes hand in hand with social justice.Dr. Guha shares his insights on how scholars, editors, librarians, and archivists play crucial roles, describing how a network of trusted colleagues, editors like Rukun Advani, and even archivists shape each book. He also sheds light on the irreplaceable value of archives, libraries, and the often uncelebrated archivists who preserve history. From finding serendipitous treasures to uncovering forgotten letters and manuscripts, archival research is, as he puts it, “an addiction,” offering writers a tactile connection to the past.Tune in as Dr. Guha takes us through forests, rivers, and the lives of those who spoke with nature, revealing the unique and timeless spirit of India's environmental ethos. ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever been captivated by the supernatural or curious about the secrets behind spirit worship?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle sits down with Hari Kumar, author of Daiva, who takes us into the fascinating world of spirit worship practiced in Karnataka and northern Kerala's Tulu Nadu region. Hari dives into the intense practice of spirit possession, where individuals become vessels for powerful spirits like Panjurli and Bobbarya.He also shares how a surprising oracle prediction led him on this journey of exploration, uncovering unique perspectives on these traditions through interviews with kola performers, astrologers, and local residents. Hari also discusses the cultural and symbolic importance of the vibrant kola get-up and offers a peek into his upcoming book on the serpent, revealing a lifelong fascination with the paranormal. Listen in as Hari dives into the rich, mystical traditions of Tulu Nadu, shares personal revelations from his journey, and uncovers the complex world of spirit worship and possession in Daiva. ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Curious about how fiction explores the intersection of identity, memory, and love? In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara sit down with Dharini Bhaskar author of ‘Like Being Alive Twice' and Rupleena Bose author of ‘Summer of Then' to talk about the art of writing female coming-of-age stories. They dive into the challenges of creating relatable female characters and discuss how their personal experiences shape their storytelling.Dharini and Rupleena open up about their creative process, the intersection of identity and literature, and the power of poetry and resilience. From navigating the complexities of inter-religious dynamics in romance to portraying the impact of the pandemic on human interaction, they offer a glimpse into their unique perspectives.In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we highlight two voices who are transforming the narrative around inter-religious romance and female coming-of-age stories in Indian fiction.Listen in as Dharini and Rupleena share their thoughts on the creative process, the challenges of portraying identity in fiction, and the deeper meaning behind their characters' journeys.Books mentioned in this episode: Leila - Prayaag Akbar Mother India - Prayaag Akbar My Year of Rest and Relaxation - Ottessa MoshfeghAugust Rush - Deborah LevyReal Estate: A Living Autobiography - Deborah LevyHow to Kill Your Family - Bella MackieThe Illuminated - Anindita GhoseBurnt Sugar - Avni DoshiMrs. Dalloway - Virginia Woolf Authors mentioned: Linda GregJeffery Carson Anne Carson‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever wonder how a destination can inspire an entire mystery novel?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara and Michelle chat with Manjiri Prabhu, India's first female mystery writer to break into the international scene. She talks about her latest novel, The Mystery of the Portuguese Hearts, set in the heart of Portugal's wine country. Manjiri reveals how investigator Re unravels the truth behind a murder and the mysterious ‘lenços' (love handkerchiefs). Minjiri shares her deep dive into research, her passion for authenticity, and how the destination itself sparks the thrill of her stories. Get ready to explore the craftiness behind her mysteries, the emotional depth of her characters, and the secrets behind crafting a destination thriller.In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Want to know how Manjiri weaves history, culture, and mystery into one thrilling narrative? Tune in for a fascinating look at her creative process and the inspiration behind her international success!Books mentioned in this episode: Legend of The Snow Queen - Manjiri PrabhuVoice of the Runes - Manjiri PrabhuThe Meditations of a Dog - Franz Kafka Authors mentioned in this episode: Agatha ChristieDaphne du MaurierWilkie CollinsEnid Blyton‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever wondered what it's like to live with a disability? Or how writing can help navigate the toughest of life's challenges? In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara chat with Abhishek Anicca, author of Grammar of My Body, a creative memoir about his life with VATERS syndrome, a condition affecting multiple parts of his body. Abhishek dives into his experience of living with chronic illness and disability in India, sharing his journey of vulnerability, humor, and breaking stereotypes.Abhishek also talks about the therapeutic power of art, especially poetry and performance, in dealing with mental health challenges and reclaiming his narrative. From the poetic nature of illness to the importance of clear, non-metaphorical communication, he gives us a deep insight into the world of writing about personal experiences. If you've ever been curious about the intersection of personal storytelling, disability, and creativity, this conversation is for you! Listen in for an inspiring, thought-provoking episode.Trigger warning: This episode discusses chronic illness, disability, and mental health struggles. Listeners are advised to exercise caution.Books mentioned in this episode: Illness as Metaphor - Susan SontagShattered: A Memoir - Hanif Kureishi ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever wonder how historical mysteries unfold in fiction? In this episode of Books and Beyond Tara and Michelle chat with Priyanka Pathak Narain, author of The Somnath Cipher. Her novel is packed with ancient puzzles, cryptic messages, and real historical events like Mahmud of Ghazni's invasion. She shares her experiences as an investigative journalist, covering stories like the Mark Foley scandal, and her transition to reporting on religion in India. Sharing insights from her career, she discusses her interest in religion and mythology and her work on the business of religion. Want to know how she blends history with suspense, or what's next for this story on screen? Tune in for fascinating insights into her creative process, and the intricate research behind this historical thriller!Books Mentioned in this episode: 1. Woebegones Warehouse of Words - Payal Kapadia 2. Godman to Tycoon: The Untold Story of Baba Ramdev -  Priyanka Pathak Narain 3. The Famous Five - Enid Blyton 4. Canon of Sherlock Holmes  - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle5. The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown 6. Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling 7. The Lord of the Rings - J.R.R. Tolkien8. Percy Jackson - Rick Riordan‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

In this episode of Books & Beyond Tara and Michelle dive into the thrilling world of ‘The Descendants' by Laksh Maheshwari and Ashish Kavi. The novel begins with a meteor landing where Jay and his mentor Kaka find a fascinating element in the orb. Their quest leads to explosive family secrets with roots stretching all the way back to the Mahabharata war.First in the trilogy, the novel exquisitely blends elements of mythology, family drama and science fiction. Tara and Michelle chat with the authors about their creative process, the art of visual storytelling, and the exciting possibilities of movie adaptations.In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we shine a spotlight on two trailblazing writers who are redefining the landscape of Indian science fiction. Tune in to find out who inspired them, their co-writing experience, and how they developed the fictional universe.Movies mentioned: Dont Look Up Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Ever dreamed of opening your own restaurant? Wondering what it takes to turn that dream into reality? In this episode of Books and Beyond, Michelle and Tara chat with Ravi Wazir, author of Beyond the Menu who has over 30 years of experience in hospitality. Ravi spills the secrets of running a successful restaurant – from understanding what customers want to balancing creativity and business. He shares the highs and lows of managing staff, budgets, customer expectations, and how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the game.In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Listen in as Ravi talks about the importance of food safety, ethics, and how technology is transforming the dining experience. If you've ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in the restaurant world, this episode is for you. Books mentioned in this episode: Diamonds For Breakfast: Cool stories from Bombay's hottest kitchenMcDonald's: Behind the Arches by John F LoveKitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly by Anthony BourdainSweets and Bitters by Satish AroraDegh to Dastarkhwan: Qissas and Recipes from Rampur by Tarana Husain Khan‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

How are mourning practices in India varied? Are mourning rituals gendered? In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara speaks with Dr. Minakshi Dewan about her book The Final Farewell: Understanding the Last Rites and Rituals of India's Major Faiths. After her father's death, Dr. Minakshi chose to personally perform the Antim Sanskar, a ritual traditionally reserved for male family members. This experience, combined with her period of grieving, led her to explore the funeral rites traditions in India.Tara and Dr. Minakshi delve into the customs surrounding funeral rites in India, examining the varied religious rituals, the gender roles involved in mourning, and the environmental impacts of these practices.Tune in and learn more about the $2.5 billion Death Care Industry in India, the role of professional mourners, the portrayal of grieving women in Bollywood, and the evolving landscape of funeral services in the country.Books mentioned in this episode:Fire on the Ganges : Life Among the Dead in Banaras - Radhika IyengarBeing Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End - Atul GawandeSamskara - U. R. AnanthamurthyDeath in Banaras - Jonathan P. ParryMovies Mentioned in this episode: Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi - Seema PahwaRudali - Kalpana LajmiPagglait - Umesh Bist‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Are influencers rewriting the rules of publishing?Back with a brand new season of Books and Beyond, in this episode Tara and Michelle discuss the rise of influencer books and what it means for the Indian publishing scene. From the buzz at Penguin Palooza to the power of social media, they dig into how influencer-led content is changing the game. Plus, they tackle the big question: what happens to traditional authors when influencers dominate the shelves?  Tune in to find out how content creation, smart distribution, and capturing young readers' attention early are shaping the future of publishing! Books mentioned in this episode: Under the Influence - Malini Agrawal She'll Never Make It - Masoom Minawala The Psychology of Money - Morgan Housel The Sex Book - Lisa MangaldasAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones - James Clear Make Epic Money - Ankur WarikooThe Ivory Throne: Chronicles of the House of Travancore- Manu S. Pillai Rebel Sultans: The Deccan from Khilji to Shivaji - Manu S. Pillai Spare - Prince Harry Sach Kahu Toh - Neena Gupta The Girls in Green - Tanushree Podder ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

How can data make or break a company? Is all data useful? And can data be “too much of a good thing”?In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara speaks to Nitin Seth, CEO at Incedo and the author of Mastering the Data Paradox and Nirmalya Kumar, a Professor and former Strategy Head for the Tata Group, who has written Clash: Amazon vs. Walmart. They discuss how data on its own is nothing unless you know how to use it and the pros and cons of data-driven decision-making. They share insights on the ongoing competition between Amazon and Walmart in the retail industry, emphasising the need to set goals and understand diverse perspectives and industry trends before making decisions. In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we shine a spotlight on two industry experts who are changing the conversation around business, data and AI. Tune in to hear their personal experiences in entrepreneurship, find out who inspired them and their process of writing books. ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

In this episode of Books and Beyond, Tara speaks to Mitali Mukherjee about her book Cryptocrimes.Tara and Mitali dive into the chaotic world of cryptocurrency, and discover why Mitali compares it to a naughty child running amok in a classroom. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful conversations, she explores the intersection of crypto technology and India's jugaad culture. Mitali unearths the dark side of cryptocurrency in India in her book, revealing the hidden pitfalls and the harsh realities behind the allure of easy profits. Tune in to discover why, in the world of finance, quick gains aren't always what they seem.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Can a corvid detective solve a murder? Why does the weather department need a singer? And how does a cloud herder take care of his flock? Find out the truth behind all these stories in Gigi Ganguly's new book “Biopeculiar”. This is the first-ever book of Westland's new speculative imprint ‘IF'. In this episode, Gigi and Michelle discuss their love for weird stories, the animals that inspired Gigi to write, and why a spec fic imprint is important for Indian literature.Tune in to hear what books inspired their writing, how Gigi came up with the characters in her story and why Satyajit Ray is a gem of the Indian spec fic genre.Movies Mentioned in this episode:Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne by Satyajit Ray, based on the story by Upendrakishore Ray ChowdhuryInterstellarAranyer Din Ratri by Satyajit RayBooks Mentioned in this episode:The Monk and Robot Series by Becky ChambersGullivers TravelsYour Utopia by Bora ChungThe Mill House Murders by Ho-Ling Wong Under the Skin by Michael FaberCoraline by Neil GaimanStory of Your Life Ted ChiangSeveneves by Neal StephensonStation Eleven by Emily St. John MandelThe Matchbox by Ashapurna DeviHitchhiker's Guide to the GalaxyThe Mountain in the Sea by Ray Nayler‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Sally Diamond cannot understand why what she did was so strange. She was only doing what her father told her to do, to put him out with the rubbish when he died.This is the basic plot of ‘Strange Sally Diamond' whose author, Liz Nugent joined Tara and Michelle on this episode of Books & Beyond to discuss Irish crime writing and the complexities of writing about trauma and identity.Together they shared their perspectives on the popularity of true crime novels in both India and Ireland, and delved into the complexities of trauma, identity, and parenting in their novels.Liz discusses her fascination with dark characters and themes, citing Shakespearean tragedies as an influence. She talked about rewriting the ending for American audiences, as they found it too dark. Additionally, she also spoke about how the novel explores the theme of parenting through the lens of a dysfunctional family, highlighting the complexities of raising children in a society that perpetuates patriarchal norms.Book and authors mentioned in this episode:‘The Last Man' by Jane Harper‘The Talented Mr. Ripley' by Patricia Highsmith‘A Fine Balance' by Rohinton Mistry‘Perfume' by Michael Patrick Susskind‘Prophet Song' by Paul Lynch‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

In this episode, Tara and Michelle speak to Vibha Kagzi, author of ‘Break The MBA Code' - a book that goes into detail about how to get into Ivy League colleges and what a person should do to make their admission application more appealing.They talked about the challenges of pursuing an MBA as a woman, with speakers sharing their personal experiences and insights. Vibha debunked common myths surrounding MBA admissions, emphasizing the holistic evaluation of a candidate's profile.In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Hear directly from one of the top admissions consultants in India as she underlines the importance of honesty, authenticity, and soft skills training during the application process.Vibha shared her experience as an admissions consultant, highlighting the role of consultants in showcasing genuine strengths and experiences to stand out in a competitive process.‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Content Warning: Discussions about torture, violence, and mental health issues.The most agonizing and horrifying torture devices from the medieval era - but with a twist!In this episode, Tara and Michelle speak to Aparna Sanyal, author of 'Instruments of Torture' - a book that explores modern society through metaphorical depictions of 8 torture devices. From ‘The Spanish Boot' that covers impossible beauty standards to ‘The Judas Cradle' that covers a forbidden love affair, each story reveals the dark, unexplored corners of the human psyche. Aparna reminisces about her journey being an alumna of the first Bound Writer's Retreat in 2018!  She also talks about the torture instruments she chose for her book, seeing them in real life, why her writings always have dark themes, and her Bollywood-esque story of meeting her editor from Harpercollins! ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Who is India's first ‘Birdwoman'? Who is the ‘Turtle Girl'? How many of India's women wildlife biologists can you name?In this episode, Tara speaks with Anita Mani, editor of ‘Women in the Wild' - an anthology of stories of India's pioneering women wildlife biologists. From the 1940s to the present, Anita features the profiles of Indian women who dedicated their life to protecting biodiversity, from Jamal Ara who spent her life studying birds and mysteriously disappeared one day, to Vidya Athreya who studies the human-leopard conflict, and contemporaries like Divya Mudappa who studies rainforests!Anita talks about her own interest in wildlife and bird-watching, how the women in her book made path-breaking findings across forests, rivers, oceans and mountains, and what the wildlife conservation industry is like for women- from remote locations, long hours, lack of beds and toilets, and even close encounters with wild animals! Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Peregrine - J.A. BakerJennifer AckermanMadhaviah Krishnan‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

This is the story of an entrepreneur who almost sold his soul to AI.In this episode, Michelle speaks with Appupen and Laurent Daudent, the illustrator-scientist duo that came together to create 'Dream Machine' - a graphic novel on AI! The book follows Hugo, who is on the verge of selling his AI tech to a large corporation. But what if the motives behind this purchase are not exactly ethical?Appupen and Laurent discuss the evolution of AI and why the hype and fear around it might be misleading. They also address their differing opinions on AI, working together from France and India, and why they regret making AI write a chapter of their book!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Circle - Dave EggersMovies and TV shows mentioned in this episode:I, Robot - Alex Proyas (Director)Her - Spike Jonze (Director)Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya - Amit Joshi, Aradhana Sah (Directors)‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Before Adam and Eve, there was Adam and Lilith.But who is Lilith and what happened to her?In this episode, Michelle speaks with Shinie Antony, author of ‘Eden Abandoned', which tells the story of Adam's first wife and the first woman ever - Lilith.  When Lilith refused to submit to Adam, she got banished from Eden and erased from the scriptures. But what did she do next?Michelle and Shinie discuss villainized women in mythology, how Lilith stood up for herself and got branded a “child-eating monster”, and why Shinie thinks an angry, articulate woman is a work of art!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Lilith - Nikki MarmeryNames of the Women - Jeet ThayilThe Da Vinci Code - Dan BrownThe Covenant of Water - Abraham VergheseMovies and TV shows mentioned in this episode:Supernatural - Eric Kripke (Creator)The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina - Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Creator)‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

It might be time to ditch the traditional path to success and follow the path of “evil”! In this episode, Michelle and Tara speak with Anand Neelakanthan, author of the ‘The Asura Way', a book that redefines the asura lifestyle and explores why “negative” traits like anger, pride, competition, commonly associated with the asuras, can actually benefit us!In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Anand talks about why he ‘became an asura', why he thinks the stories our parents tell us were invented to keep us in check, and why we need to wholeheartedly embrace the “evil” within us!Tune in! ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What does one of India's top entrepreneurs have to say about writing, making money, and marketing books?In this episode, Tara and Michelle speak with Ankur Warikoo, bestselling author of 'Make Epic Money', a book that teaches you everything you wish you knew about money!Ankur talks about how his relationship with money changed, gaining financial freedom, and writing a book for youngsters to learn everything about money that nobody tells them. He also talks about how he started writing, his biggest tip for writers, and the three marketing strategies he used to create a bestselling book! Bonus: Ankur also answers crowdsourced questions about managing money and tips for young writers and entrepreneurs!Tune in!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Fountainhead - Ayn RandRework - David Heinemeier Hansson and Jason FriedAtmamun - Kapil GuptaAtomic Habits - James ClearThe Psychology of Money - Morgan Housel‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Discover some of the finest works of Indian detective fiction, all in one place!In this episode, Michelle and Aishwarya speak with Tarun Saint, curator of 'The Hachette Book of Indian Detective Fiction', Volumes 1 and 2! The first of its kind, the anthology compiles everything from intriguing whodunits, supernatural mysteries, and serial murders, spread across two volumes.Join us as Tarun talks about going from reading Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie, to curating some of India's best detective fiction from authors like Satyajit Ray to Vikram Chandra in this long-awaited anthology. He also discusses his previous work in speculative fiction, the increasing number of women writers in detective fiction, and what the detective fiction scene in India could look like going forward! Tune in! Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Sherlock Holmes series - Arthur Conan DoyleThe Famous Five series - Enid BlytonThe Nancy Drew series - Carolyn KeeneThe Hardy Boys series - Franklin W.  DixonThe Lottery - Shirley JacksonLamb to the Slaughter - Roald DahlThe Murder of Roger Ackroyd - Agatha Christie‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What's it like being a female taxi driver in a city notorious for being unsafe for women?In this episode, Michelle speaks with Manjula Padmanabhan, author of 'Taxi', whose protagonist, 'Maddy', runs a women's-only taxi service in Delhi! And when Maddy receives an attractive job offer as a pretend male chauffeur for a powerful old man, she accepts and becomes 'Madan'. But what happens when the lines blur between 'Maddy' and 'Madan' and she finds herself questioning her identity? Join us as Manjula talks about her inspiration behind the book, her award-winning play 'Harvest', and why Manjula herself never learnt to drive!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Why Men Rape - Tara KaushalWhite Tiger - Aravind AdigaEquations - Shivani SybilThrough The Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There - Lewis CarollThe Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

South Asia boasts a less than 1% divorce rate. But the real reason behind it is far from happy marriages. In this episode, Tara and Michelle sit down with Aisha Sarwari and Shasvathi Siva, as they talk about misogyny and marriages in South Asia. Aisha's book, 'Heart Tantrums', is a memoir that addresses her immigrant life and her marriage to a man with a personality-altering brain tumor and how, despite the grief and abuse she faced, she was told that being a devoted wife would fix everything.Shasvathi's book, 'Divorce is Normal', is a handy guidebook that aims to normalize divorce and provide legal, emotional, and mental support for anyone going through divorce, or considering it. What is it like to be a divorced woman in South Asia and why is there so much stigma attached?In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we will shine a spotlight on two compelling contemporary voices each month, individuals who are reshaping the landscape of Indian literature. Join us in a thought-provoking conversation as we delve into the realities of South Asian marriages, societal expectations, and why it's always better to "struggle with the community"!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:When I Hit You - Meena KandasamyRewriting My Happily Ever After - Ranjani RaoHow Much is Too Much? - Neha MehrotraThe Handmaid's Tale - Margaret AtwoodAll About Love - Bell Hooks‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Find out what it was like growing up in post-independence India through the eyes of a man who lived through it all!Join Michelle as she speaks with Bhaskar Roy, author of 'Fifty Year Road', a personal memoir like no other. Bhaskar talks about growing up during the Naxalbari uprising - the armed peasant revolt of 1967 in West Bengal. He shares his earliest memories of witnessing the violence of the Naxalite movement, stories of his parents and their activism, and risky assignments that he's covered during his days as a journalist, including watching a car blow up in front of his eyes!In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Tune in for a never-before-seen view of India's history!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel García MárquezSons and Lovers - D.H. LawrenceMovies mentioned in this episode:The Calcutta Trilogy - Mrinal Sen (Director)‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

"We will pay the price for the sins of our forefathers"In this episode, Michelle speaks with Santanu Bhattacharya, author of 'One Small Voice' - a thought-provoking coming-of-age book about the politics of modern India, whose protagonist witnesses an act of mob violence in the communal riots of 1992 and is haunted by it for the rest of his life.Santanu speaks about watching multiple videos of the riots for research, being a part of the generation of writers who grew up witnessing it, and why he feels like his whole life has been a passive researcher for this book.Tune in!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Memoirs of Valmiki Rao - Lindsay PereiraQuarterlife - Devika RegeA Burning - Megha MajumdarThe Association of Small Bombs - Karan MahajanThe Boy in the Striped Pyjamas - John BoyneThe Shadow Lines - Amitav GhoshOliver Twist - Charles Dickens‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

One powerful secret. Two stolen paintings. And a man who will decide the fate of the world. Join Michelle as she sits down with Tarun Mehrishi, author of ‘The Portrait of a Secret' - a novel inspired by true events. In an epic combination of art heist, historical fiction and spy thriller, Tarun's book explores the aftermath of the theft of two priceless paintings and a secret that has the RAW, ISI and the CIA scrambling to gain control.Tarun talks about how the book was inspired by India's actual history of stolen art, how he acquired the inside scoop on spy work, and how his book is being adapted for the screen! Tune in!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Wilbur SmithClear and Present Danger - Tom Clancy The Hunt for Red October - Tom ClancyCalling Sehmat - Harinder Singh SikkaMovies mentioned in this episode:Raazi - Meghna Gulzar (Director)‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Find out what centuries-old epics have to offer in the modern era!In this episode, Michelle sits down with Amit Majmudar and Shantanu Gupta to discuss all things mythology. Amit talks about his book, 'The Book of Vows', which is a retelling of the Mahabharata through all the vows that took place in the epic, sprinkled with his own insights on ethics and values. Shantanu's 'Teachings from the Ramayana' is a handy book of 25 case studies for families to navigate daily life challenges through crosswords and reflective exercises.  In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we will shine a spotlight on two compelling contemporary voices each month, individuals who are reshaping the landscape of Indian literature. Amit and Shantanu discuss the need for contemporary retellings, the treasure-trove of invaluable lessons they contain, and lesser-known versions that will change the way you view the epics!Tune in!‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

"One fine morning, he's told, 'Your father is dead, your brother's been exiled, so now you have to go and become king"'.In this episode, Tara and Michelle talk to Shatrujeet Nath, author of the series 'Warlord of Ayodhya'. The series focuses on Bharat - Ram's brother - who was never given a voice in the Ramayana. It tells the story of an untrained, unwilling hero who is thrown into the spotlight and has to face troubles far beyond his imagination. Will he succeed or will he bring doom to his kingdom?In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.Shatrujeet also talks about how Bharat caught his attention, how he wrote adrenaline-filled battle scenes and how he's excited to conclude his series in an epic revelation from the Ramayana that is sure to stun the reader!Tune in!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table - Roger Lancelyn GreenThe Blade Itself - Joe AbercrombieThe Lies of Locke Lamora - Scott LynchPaolo BacigalupiJ.R.R. TolkeinChina Miéville‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Three sisters, none of whom wanted to fall in love, and yet they did.Are you ready for some dramatic, relatable, and light-hearted desi romance? In this episode, Michelle and Tara speak to Andaleeb Wajid about her most popular romance series- 'Jasmine Villa'. The series comprises three books, each following one of the three sisters of Jasmine Villa as they navigate Indian family dynamics, sisterhood, and find unexpected romance in a tangle of complex, interconnected relationships. Andaleeb talks about writing romance in spite of being a cynic, adding drama in her stories for fun, and why we keep returning to rom-coms despite their unrealistic standards!  Join us as we watch this romance take off (literally)!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Pride and Prejudice - Jane AustenOpen Water - Caleb Azumah NelsonNormal People - Sally RooneyIron Flame - Rebecca YarrosSomeone Like Her - Awais KhanThe Partition Trilogy - Manreet Sodhi SomeshwarNever Let Me Go - Kazuo IshiguroA Tale of Two Cities - Charles Dickens‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

How did one disastrous field trip turn a history teacher's life upside down?In this episode, Michelle speaks with Anjum Hasan, author of 'History's Angel'- a riveting novel that explores life as a religious minority in modern India. When an easygoing history teacher is provoked by a student into losing his temper, he finds his life thrown into chaos as he battles with what it means to be a Muslim in present times. Anjum recalls stories from her childhood and growing up Muslim, and talks about why Delhi is the perfect setting for her story, with a rich past that is unraveled through her protagonist's eyes.Tune in for an unforgettable revisit into history!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Discovery of India - Jawaharlal NehruAn Intimate Portrait of a Great Mughal - Parvati SharmaAkbar of Hindustan - Parvati SharmaTT3cSrG4r1OZHzHhecNZ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Imagine a crowded railway station where an attractive stranger catches your eye. A train passes by and– they're gone!In this episode, Michelle sits down with Damyanti Biswas to discuss her book ‘The Blue Bar', as it unpacks the disappearance of a woman dressed in a blue sequined saree from a crowded Mumbai railway station and how, 13 years later, a trail of murders begin with nothing to show for it- except blue sequins. They discuss how Damyanti sat in railway stations watching trains as part of her research, how she obsessively read about bar dancers, and why The Blue Bar is a Mumbai novel, through and through. In this exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.What secrets and terrible crimes lie behind the glamor of Bollywood, dance bars, and mangroves in Mumbai? Tune in to find out!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Beautiful Thing: Inside the Secret World of Bombay's Dance Bars - Sonia FaleiroThe Last Courtesan - Manish GaekwadMaximum City: Bombay Lost and Found - Suketu MehtaShantaram - Gregory David RobertsSacred Games - Vikram ChandraThe Secret of More - Tejaswini Apte-RahmManjhi's Mayhem - Tanuj SolankiMovies mentioned in this episode:Chandni Bar - Madhur Bhandarkar (Director)‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Picture this: Kerala, a family that suffers a strange hereditary affliction- and everywhere they look is the very thing that could kill them.In this episode Tara talks to Abraham Verghese about his bestselling book 'The Covenant of Water'. The book is set in the Malabar Coast of Kerala and follows three generations of a family where, in every generation, at least one person dies by drowning. Abraham talks about how his book was loosely inspired by his mother's 120-paged, illustrated depiction of her childhood, his experience in medicine, and how he always carries a pocketful of knowledge about rare diseases!Join us as we find out why this was Oprah's book club pick and why she simply did not want the book to end!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:God of Small Things - Arundhati RoyThe Better Man - Anita NairThe Brothers Karamazov - Fyodor DostoevskyThe Love Songs of W. E. B. Du Bois - Honorée Fanonne JeffersMaster and Commander - Patrick O'Brian‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What happens when two women find themselves in the midst of horrendous crimes? Join us as Tara and Michelle speak to two avid thriller writers– Devashish Sardana and Nidhi Upadhyay. In this episode, Devashish discusses his book “The Girl with Broken Dreams”, a story of a feisty CBI investigator who finds herself in a quest for the truth behind a string of suicides, while battling her own demons. And Nidhi Upadhyay talks about her book “I Hear You”, a story of a woman trapped in an abusive marriage, and how she starts talking to the baby in her womb- only to find him responding! In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we will shine a spotlight on two compelling contemporary voices each month, individuals who are reshaping the landscape of Indian literature. Tune in to hear how they started their thriller-writing journey, how they kept finding their way back despite having day jobs, and the concerning contents of a thriller writer's search history! Books and authors mentioned in this episode:The Silence of the Lambs - Thomas HarrisAnd Then There Were None - Agatha ChristieGone Girl - Gillian FlynnGodaan - Munshi PremchandWhere the Crawdads Sing - Delia OwensMovies and TV shows mentioned in this episode:Misery - Stephen King (Director- Rob Reiner)Mahabharata - B.R. Chopra‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Why do some peoples' life stories fascinate us?Back with a bang for a brand new season, Tara and Michelle share their love for stories about real people. They discuss tales of extraordinary courage, struggles, perseverance, successes, and failures. What draws us to these stories? Are only some stories deserving of a platform? Whose stories do we not hear enough of? Tune in to find out!Books and authors mentioned in this episode:Meow Meow: The Incredible True Story of Baby Patankar - Srinath RaoNowhere Man: The Story of Captain Kamal Bakshi, Missing Since the 1971 Indo-Pak War - Shivalik BakshiUnbroken - Indrani MukerjeaWomen in the Wild: Stories of India's Most Brilliant Women Wildlife Biologists - Anita ManiThe Taliban and I - Sushmita BandyopadhyayMadam Commissioner: The Extraordinary Life of an Indian Police Chief - Meeran Chadha BorwankarRemnants of a Separation - Aanchal MalhotraR.A.W Hitman: The Real Story of Agent Lima - Hussain ZaidiFriends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing - Matthew PerrySridevi: The South Years - Amborish Roy ChoudhuryShoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike - Phil KnightFire on the Ganges: Life Among the Dead in Banaras - Radhika IyengarHis Majesty's Headhunters: The Siege of Kohima that Shaped World History -  Mmhonlümo KikonWe Come From the Mist: Writings from MeghalayaTruck de India!: A Hitchhiker's Guide to Hindustan - Rajat UbhaykarWhat's Left of the Jungle: A Conservation Story - Nitin SekarLady Doctors: The Untold Stories of India's First Women in Medicine - Kavitha RaoAruna's Story: The True Account of a Rape and its Aftermath - Pinki ViraniMovies and TV shows mentioned:Beckham - Fisher StevensTaali - Ravi JadhavProduced by Aishwarya Javalgekar‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Are you ready to go down the path of success? In this episode, Tara and Michelle talk to the ISKCON monk Gopinath Das, author of “The Power of Karma Yoga: Decoding Ancient Wisdom for Lasting Success”. An IIT graduate turned monk, Gopinath Das is on a mission to educate modern society by combining science and profound life advice found in ancient texts. In an exciting partnership series with Jaico Publishing House, we are featuring fascinating new authors every month, writers that captivate the audience and bring forth a revolutionary perspective to Indian literature.What secrets of life do the ancient books hold? Tune in to find out! Books mentioned in this episode: Rafa: My Story- Rafael Nadal, John CarlinIrresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked- Adam AlterThe Obstacle is the Way- Ryan HolidayEgo is the Enemy- Ryan HolidayProduced by Aishwarya Javalgekar‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

What happens if you are faced with a choice that complicates matters between your professional and personal lives? This episode sees Tara and Michelle dive into a conversation with Rheea Mukherjee and Gargi Rawat, as they explore the nuances of modern-day activism and the ethical dilemmas that come with it.Join us as we talk to Rheea Mukherjee about her book “The Girl Who Kept Falling In Love”, and how it uncovers the story of Kaya who hurtles into activism in her search for purpose, and along the way, witnesses extreme torment and heartfelt love. Will she conquer her insecurities and do what she set out to accomplish? The hosts also talk to Gargi Rawat, author of “Tiger Season”, about the complexities of the human-wildlife conflict as the protagonist Sunaina, embarks on a journey of wild-life conservation, controversies, and unintentional love. Will she find a balance among them?In this exclusive series in partnership with Penguin Random House India, we will shine a spotlight on two compelling contemporary voices each month, individuals who are reshaping the landscape of Indian literature. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode!Books mentioned in this episode:The Adivasi Will Not Dance: Stories- Hansda Sowvendra ShekharLeila- Prayaag AkbarThe Lottery- Shirley JacksonWhat's Left of the Jungle: A Conservation Story- Nitin SekarMovies mentioned in this episode:Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya- Rajat MukherjeeThe List- Yomi AdegokeProduced by Aishwarya Javalgekar‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.