Vinod Naraen is an emerging voice in contemporary Indian fiction, known for his witty storytelling and relatable characters. With Love Ka Jugaad, he brings together humor, romance, and the chaos of Indian family life in a refreshing way that resonates with readers of all ages. His writing style is simple yet impactful, weaving everyday moments into heartwarming tales. Through his debut, Vinod hopes to remind readers that love often arrives unplanned, wrapped in laughter, and disguised as life’s little accidents.
The Literature Times: Love Ka Jugaad beautifully blends humour, family drama, and romance. What inspired you to write a story that captures all three in one narrative?
Vinod Naraen: Ever since a young age, I was drawn to humor as a way of life, and as I grew up on Bollywood, especially SRK, Romance has been in built in me. And when you have a Indian Family, there is always drama for entertainment. This way, humor, drama and romance are my core elements.
The Literature Times: Viraaj, the protagonist, is quirky, clumsy, and very different from the stereotypical romantic hero. How did you develop his character, and how much of him reflects your own personality?
Vinod Naraen: I based Viraaj’s character upon my own self. Not all heroes wear capes or are macho, sometimes heroes are like Viraaj, down to earth, clumsy, yet utterly relatable.
The Literature Times: Aneri is witty, confident, and layered with depth, especially when she talks about identity and belonging. Was she inspired by someone real, or did she emerge completely from your imagination?
Vinod Naraen: Aneri, as a character emerged completely from my imagination. She is every modern Indian Girl who dreams to change the world.
The Literature Times: Indian weddings play a central role in the novel. Why did you choose a wedding setting as the backdrop for Viraaj and Aneri’s journey?
Vinod Naraen: I feel like Indian families, essentially gather together at two occasions, funerals and weddings. And weddings are great opportunities to enjoy oneself and also to meet new people and places.
The Literature Times: The book uses a lot of humour — from witty dialogues to chaotic situations. Do you consciously write comedy, or does it come naturally to your storytelling style?
Vinod Naraen: I grew up watching a lot of humorous content, from Cartoons like Mr.Bean and Shin Chan to Priyadarshan movies, and I use humor as a coping mechanism. I’m also a stand up comedian and so humor and wit are ingrained in me.
The Literature Times: One of the standout aspects of the book is how it explores identity — Viraaj being “half-and-half” and Aneri facing stereotypes about the North East. Why was it important for you to weave this theme into the romance?
Vinod Naraen: India is a nation of complexities, ironically identity is one of the bigger issues we face as Indians. So, I wanted to bring people together, where people are not different state people, but just Indians.
The Literature Times: Readers often fall in love with side characters like Palani Anna, Naanu, and the nosy relatives. How do you approach writing supporting characters that feel so alive and memorable?
Vinod Naraen: All the supporting characters are main characters in their own stories, and all of them are based on real people I know or have witnessed in my life.
The Literature Times: If Love Ka Jugaad were adapted into a movie or web series, who would you imagine playing Viraaj and Aneri on screen?
Vinod Naraen: Now, that is an interesting question. In my opinion, Viraaj could be played by Vikrant Massey and Aneri could be played by Prajakta Koli. They would do justice to the roles.
The Literature Times: What do you hope readers will take away from this book beyond the humour and romance?
Vinod Naraen: I hope the readers take the optimistic spirit of the protagonist.
The Literature Times: Finally, is there a sequel or another story connected to Love Ka Jugaad in the pipeline, or are you planning to explore a completely different theme in your next book?
Vinod Naraen: Very much. Love Ka Jugaad is the first book of a Trilogy series. The second book is a political thriller and the third book is a family drama.
