Mayur Deshpande, an analyst and IT engineer, is a passionate storyteller inspired by his 5-year-old daughter. Based in Pune, his work explores emotional bonds and imaginative worlds. Mallie is his latest blend of fantasy and reality.
The Literature Times: What inspired you to write Mallie?
Mayur Deshpande: Writing has always been more than just a hobby for me—it’s been a way to connect with the world and express my thoughts. My journey began with crafting business articles for various platforms, each piece a small step toward refining my voice. Over time, I ventured into the world of books and authored a self-help fiction titled Mirrors of Self Manifestation. Yet, my heart always yearned to explore a deeper theme—one that resonates universally: the boundless potential of children. I firmly believe that every child is born with a unique superpower, a gift waiting to be discovered and nurtured. This belief, coupled with the inspiration I draw from my daughter, gave birth to this story. Her curious spirit and boundless imagination became the foundation for this narrative, making this project profoundly personal and close to my heart.
The Literature Times: How did your business analytics and IT background influence your writing style?
Mayur Deshpande: Yes, technical knowledge can be both a strength and a limitation when it comes to storytelling. On one hand, it adds depth and authenticity, especially when explaining intricate scenarios or grounding a story in realism. However, there are times when it can become a barrier, making the narrative overly complex or less engaging for the reader. For instance, I often find myself using technical jargon to explain situations, a habit that stems from my background. My friend once pointed out that I should set my engineering knowledge aside and embrace the mindset of an author. “Your characters are fictitious,” they said, “so your writing should be more dramatic than technical.” This advice was a game-changer. It taught me to balance the precision of technical expertise with the emotional resonance that storytelling demands. While my technical knowledge has enriched my narratives in some ways, there were moments when it restricted my creativity, leading to unexpected challenges—or, as my friend humorously called them, “bloopers.”
The Literature Times: What does the character of Mallie represent for you?
Mayur Deshpande: Mallie, by its very essence, means “sweet.” But for me, Mallie is more than a word—it’s a reflection of my daughter. I see her in Mallie’s mischievous grin, her curly hair, and her fair complexion. I see her in the way she throws tantrums over the smallest things, stubborn yet endearingly pragmatic. She’s the kind of child whose thoughts carry a depth beyond her years—a young girl who questions, challenges, and defies the norms that society blindly follows. Mallie’s upbringing is a story of empowerment. Despite societal expectations that often stifle individuality, her father supports her journey, encouraging her to question orthodox traditions and stand firm in her beliefs. Together, they navigate a world that isn’t always kind to those who dare to be different.This novel delves into what it means to be “special” or “abnormal” in a society that often views these traits with negativity. In our culture, the word “abnormal” is laden with judgment, implying something strange or undesirable. But I believe that not every abnormality is bizarre—some can be blessings, depending on how you choose to embrace them. Through Mallie’s story, I hope to shift this perspective, showing that what sets us apart can also be our greatest strength. This is a tale of courage, individuality, and the extraordinary beauty of being different.
The Literature Times: The novel blends fantasy and reality—what drew you to this genre?
Mayur Deshpande: I wanted to create a story that blends fantasy with reality—a genre I like to call “faction.” Fantasy that feels close to home, rooted in everyday life, has a unique power to captivate and connect with readers. It allows them to step into a world that feels both familiar and extraordinary, blurring the lines between imagination and experience.My goal in writing this fiction was to create a narrative where the reader feels like they are the protagonist of the story. I want them to see themselves in the characters, to live their struggles, triumphs, and dreams. It’s a story that invites readers to imagine their own lives as part of this fantastical journey, making every twist and turn feel deeply personal. This connection is what makes a story truly memorable, and it is my hope that this novel achieves just that.
The Literature Times: How does the father-daughter relationship in the story reflect your personal experiences?
Mayur Deshpande: My daughter was the true inspiration behind this novel. She is, in many ways, Mallie herself—adamant, pragmatic, and delightfully mischievous, with her small tantrums and strong-willed nature. Yet, behind her playful exterior lies a depth of thought that often leaves me in awe. She sees the world differently, noticing things many of us might overlook, and her ideas carry a wisdom far beyond her years. One of the pivotal moments in this story, the tale of chitti-pitti, is drawn directly from real life. My daughter, with her compassionate heart, wanted to find a proper home for these tiny creatures. Her determination to do so was both endearing and inspiring. It was a cause she believed in, and as her father, I knew it was my responsibility to support her. That moment of collaboration—her vision and my encouragement—became a cornerstone of this novel. This story is as much about Mallie’s journey as it is a tribute to my daughter and the lessons she’s taught me about empathy, determination, and seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary.
The Literature Times: What challenges did Mallie face that you feel resonate with today’s world?
Mayur Deshpande: The biggest challenge in writing this novel was imagining the social response when Mallie’s reality—the fact that she is blessed with a superpower—unfolds to the world. I often wondered, how would people react to someone so unique, someone who doesn’t fit the conventional mold? Would they celebrate her, fear her, or try to control her? The uncertainty of these reactions made this part of the story particularly complex and deeply personal to explore.
To bring authenticity to this aspect of the narrative, I spoke with numerous people from different walks of life. Their perspectives were as varied as they were insightful—some were filled with awe and admiration, while others expressed doubt, apprehension, or even skepticism. Each response gave me a new lens to view Mallie’s journey and the broader implications of being “different” in a society that often resists change.
Ultimately, I wove into the novel a portrayal of human reactions that felt both realistic and relatable. It reflects how people might behave when confronted with something extraordinary—a mix of curiosity, fear, acceptance, and even resistance. Through this, I hope to explore not only Mallie’s personal struggles but also society’s capacity for growth, understanding, and acceptance.
The Literature Times: Why did you choose the mythical Midas touch as a central theme in the story?
Mayur Deshpande: Mythical stories have always been an integral part of our upbringing, shaping our values, beliefs, and understanding of the world. From bedtime tales to epic legends, these stories have left an indelible mark on our lives, weaving lessons and wonder into our imaginations.
When I set out to write this novel, I realized how deeply myths resonate with us. They carry timeless truths and universal themes, offering both comfort and inspiration. I thought it would be fitting to infuse the narrative with a touch of mythical Midas—a sprinkle of magic that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
This element not only adds depth to the story but also bridges the familiar with the fantastical. It connects readers to the roots of storytelling while exploring new possibilities within the genre. Myths remind us that there’s always more than meets the eye, and in this novel, they serve as a backdrop for Mallie’s extraordinary journey—a journey that is as much about discovering her power as it is about understanding the world around her.
The Literature Times: What was the most challenging part of writing Mallie?
Mayur Deshpande: The final chapter, Mallie’s last speech, is the heart of this novel—a poignant and thought-provoking argument that challenges the very concept of progress. Through her words, Mallie brings to light the “Cost of Progress,” forcing us to confront the harsh realities of our so-called advancement.
In the animal kingdom, humans stand as the most progressive species, but at what cost? Our achievements have come at the expense of countless other species and the environment they depend on. No other creature in the natural world has forced entire ecosystems to bear the burden of their growth. Yet, we proudly call ourselves the pinnacle of progress.
Mallie’s speech isn’t just a critique; it’s a call for introspection. It compels us to question whether the sacrifices made—by the planet, by animals, and by future generations—are worth the advancements we claim to have achieved. Her argument strikes at the core of what it truly means to be “progressive” and whether we, as humans, are willing to redefine progress in a way that values coexistence over dominance.
This chapter is a powerful conclusion to Mallie’s journey, urging readers to rethink their role in the larger web of life and to embrace a vision of progress that is as compassionate as it is sustainable.
The Literature Times: What do you hope readers take away from Mallie’s journey?
Mayur Deshpande: I hope readers take away a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of empathy. Mallie’s life is a reflection of the struggles and triumphs that so many face in silence, a testament to how courage and determination can thrive even in the harshest circumstances. Through her eyes, I want readers to see the beauty in small victories and the strength it takes to navigate the complexities of life. Her journey isn’t just about overcoming external challenges but also about discovering her own voice and reclaiming her sense of self-worth. It is a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, hope and kindness can illuminate the darkest paths. Above all, Mallie’s story invites readers to reflect on their own lives and their capacity to effect change—not only within themselves but also in the lives of those around them. It’s a call to action, urging us to embrace empathy, challenge injustices, and find meaning in the connections we share as human beings.
The Literature Times: What role do you think myths and legends play in shaping our worldview?
Mayur Deshpande: These stories also serve as cultural mirrors, reflecting the beliefs, traditions, and priorities of the societies that birthed them. They shape our identities and influence how we perceive our roles within our communities. Whether it’s the hero’s journey, tales of creation, or legends of moral triumph, these narratives teach us about resilience, justice, and the consequences of our choices. Moreover, myths and legends have the power to inspire, offering guidance during times of uncertainty. They remind us that even in the face of insurmountable challenges, there is potential for growth, transformation, and renewal. By drawing on the rich tapestry of these tales, we can find meaning and direction in our own lives.
The Literature Times: What’s next for you as an author? Can we expect a sequel to Mallie?
Mayur Deshpande: Not exactly a sequel, but another story has been forming in my mind—another tale of a daughter’s unique struggles, one that delves into the extraordinary gift of seeing the future. Imagine a young girl who discovers that the windshield of her car becomes a portal to the days yet to come. Each journey she takes unveils glimpses of the future—moments of joy, tragedy, or life-altering decisions waiting to unfold.
This gift, while remarkable, is both a blessing and a burden. How do you live when you can see what lies ahead? Do you change the course of events or let destiny take its path? This new story explores the emotional and moral dilemmas of knowing too much and the resilience it takes to carry such a gift in a world that might not understand or accept it.
Through her journey, I want to capture the struggle of balancing her unique ability with the simple desire to lead a normal life. It’s a story of courage, love, and the weight of foresight—a tale that once again draws inspiration from the strength and complexity of a young girl’s spirit, much like Mallie.
The Literature Times: What is your favorite book and why?
Mayur Deshpande: The Zahir by Paulo Coelho is a profound exploration of love, obsession, and self-discovery. The story follows a successful author whose wife, Esther, mysteriously disappears. Her absence becomes his “Zahir,” an object of fixation that consumes his thoughts. Through his journey to find her, he embarks on a spiritual quest, unraveling the deeper meanings of freedom, relationships, and fulfillment. Coelho’s lyrical prose and philosophical insights challenge readers to question their attachments and redefine their understanding of love. The Zahir is a moving tale that resonates deeply, reminding us that true connection often requires letting go.
The Literature Times: Have you experienced writer’s block, and how do you handle it?
Mayur Deshpande: Yes, I’ve experienced writer’s block—it’s something every writer faces at some point. For me, it often comes when I overthink the process or feel the pressure to make every word perfect. When this happens, I remind myself to take a step back and reconnect with the reason I started writing in the first place.
To overcome it, I use a few strategies. Sometimes, I switch to a different form of creative expression, like reading, drawing, or even taking a walk in nature to refresh my mind. Other times, I write without any agenda—just free-flowing thoughts, no matter how disorganized. This helps break the inertia.
Most importantly, I remind myself that creativity isn’t always linear. It’s okay to pause, reflect, and let ideas simmer. Patience and trust in the process often lead to breakthroughs, and soon enough, the words start flowing again.
The Literature Times: Can you share any upcoming projects or plans for future books?
Mayur Deshpande: Saraswati : who can see the future on windshield and
Meera : Who can take help from nature in every challenge of her life.
