1. Could you share a little about your journey as a writer and what led you to become an author?
Nagalaxmi M GY: Even as a schoolgirl, I was drawn to writing. I began by contributing letters to the editor for leading newspapers such as The Deccan Herald and The Indian Express. Many times, The Indian Express featured my letters prominently in a boxed section, which boosted my confidence in my ability to think critically, analyze situations, and explore them with a psychological perspective. I went on to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Kerala University, as my father—an engineer—was transferred to Trivandrum at the time. This laid the foundation for my lifelong engagement with language and ideas.
After completing my PU (12th), although my father wished I pursued engineering, I could not secure a seat due to my lower score in mathematics. In hindsight, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as I chose to study English Literature instead. I believed the subject would help me master the language, and I soon fell in love with it. The books I read often carried me into creative musings, especially about the psychological motives behind human actions and flaws.
Following my Post Graduation in English Literature from Bangalore University, I pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism, where I contributed poems and articles to the college magazine. Later, while working as a lecturer in English, I continued writing for Femina and The Indian Express and was appointed Chief Editor of a newly launched bi-weekly at my college.
The urge to write a full-length novel eventually led me to take voluntary retirement after over 23 years of teaching. Writing became not just an interest but a calling. Our Chikoo: Hero of Hearts and Hashtags, my third novel, is especially close to my heart because it reflects my fascination with the quirks and humorous side of life
2. What was the inspiration behind your latest book, and how did the idea first come to you?
Nagalaxmi M GY: My latest book, Our Chikoo: Hero of Hearts and Hashtags, is my third and also my favourite work. After a few years of being occupied with personal and professional commitments, I returned to Facebook and was struck by how much the platform had evolved. What fascinated me most were the short videos that showcased the creativity and talent of people worldwide—Europeans, Africans, Americans, and of course, Indians.
However, what truly triggered the idea for this book were the comment sections. The quirky, unpolished English with which fans expressed their admiration and emotions immediately caught my attention. As an English lecturer, I had already been sensitized to the unique ways in which Indian students, influenced by their linguistic and cultural backgrounds, expressed themselves in English. My extensive travels across India had also exposed me to the many accents, pronunciations, and regional flavours that shaped English usage in different states.
All these experiences came together as the springboard for this novel. Since most comments on Indian digital creators’ posts are written in Hindi or a blend of Hindi and English, I chose to weave Hindi phrases into the narrative as well. The result is a humorous and relatable exploration of Indian English and Hinglish, presented through the lens of social media culture. I believe readers will connect with it for its hilarity, freshness, and authenticity.
3. How would you describe your book to readers who may be discovering your work for the first time?
Nagalaxmi M GY: Our Chikoo: Hero of Hearts and Hashtags is a light-hearted, humorous novel that captures the quirks of social media culture and the unique way Indians express themselves in English and Hinglish. Written in a playful, intentionally broken Indian English style, the book follows the rise of Chikoo, an ordinary man who becomes an internet sensation and the darling of countless fans through his dramatic reels and emotional performances.
For readers, this is not just Chikoo’s story—it’s also a reflection of our times, where likes, comments, and hashtags shape fame and identity. The book is filled with laughter, satire, and affectionate observations of Indian life, language, and digital creativity. Whether you’re familiar with social media trends or simply enjoy witty, relatable storytelling, Our Chikoo promises an entertaining read that will leave you smiling.
4. What themes or messages do you hope readers will take away from your writing?
Nagalaxmi M GY: Through Our Chikoo: Hero of Hearts and Hashtags, I hope readers will see how humor can be a powerful lens to look at life. On the surface, the book is filled with laughter, quirky English, and the hilarity of social media culture. But underneath, it also reflects on how language, identity, and self-expression are shaped by our backgrounds, cultures, and the digital age we live in.
The themes I wish to highlight are the celebration of diversity in communication, the beauty of imperfection, and the way ordinary people can find connection and even stardom through authenticity. At its heart, the book encourages readers to laugh at life’s quirks, embrace their individuality, and not be afraid of expressing themselves—however unconventional their voice may sound.
I also believe the humour and observations in this book have a cross-generational appeal. While younger readers may connect instantly with the social media setting and Hinglish expressions, older readers will enjoy the satire, the playful take on language, and the affectionate nod to the quirks of Indian life
5. Can you tell us about your writing process? Do you follow a set routine, or does it vary with each project?
Nagalaxmi M GY: To me, writing is an art—a creative process that cannot be confined within a strict timeline. I don’t follow a set routine; instead, I let my ideas and imagination guide me. I write because my mind is constantly brimming with thoughts, stories, and images that compel me to express them.
I consider myself a free spirit, and I keep my writing the same way—without restrictions or imposed deadlines. When inspiration strikes, I write with great fervour, sometimes for hours at a stretch. At other times, I allow myself the space to step back, engage in other activities, or even watch movies, until the next wave of creativity draws me back to the page,
6. What challenges did you encounter while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?
Nagalaxmi M GY: I did not face many challenges while writing this book. In fact, it was a real joy for me to highlight the quirks of Indian English—an idea that came from constantly watching digital creators on social media and reading the comment sections. In many ways, it reignited a long-held passion of mine to capture the unique ways Indians use English, something I had observed closely during my years as an English lecturer teaching heterogeneous classes. My students came from diverse linguistic backgrounds, each bringing their own amusing expressions into the classroom.
I still recall one unforgettable incident: when I asked a student his name, he sprang up and replied quite confidently, “SnowSmell, ma’am.” The class burst into laughter, while I blinked in confusion until it struck me—snow in Kannada translates to Manju and smell to Natha. What he actually meant was that his name was Manjunatha! Moments like these made me realise how rich, funny, and endearing Indian English can be, and they gave me the inspiration to write this book with genuine delight.
7. Which authors or books have influenced your writing style and storytelling approach the most?
Nagalaxmi M GY: Well, I must honestly say that my writing style is my own. However, there are authors who have greatly influenced me and impressed me with the psychological depth they bring to human feelings, emotions, and reactions in varying situations. Writers whose works resonate with me on this level include Thomas Hardy, James Joice, Daniel Defoe, Charlotte Brontë, Emily Brontë, Charles Dickens just to name a few and of course, the timeless master William Shakespeare. Their exploration of the human psyche and the complexities of character have inspired me to examine emotions and motives with a similar sensitivity in my own writing.
8. How do you balance your writing career with your other professional and personal responsibilities?
Nagalaxmi M GY: I’m no longer in a full-time job, except for a few hours of personal coaching for students who need guidance during their examinations. I believe that when a person is truly interested in something, they can devote time to it without ever seeing it as a burden. Everyone has responsibilities—both within the family and in society—and it is up to us to make time for them.
On a lighter note, as a Virgo, I’m naturally organized and grounded, which helps me manage my writing alongside personal and professional commitments with ease. My tendency to find humour in life’s moments also keeps me light-hearted, allowing me to accept life as it is, take things at my own pace, and consider everything as a blessing. Balancing writing with other responsibilities has never felt like a challenge; it’s simply a part of the rhythm of my life.
9. What advice would you offer to aspiring authors who are just beginning their writing journey?
Nagalaxmi M GY: Honestly, my advice to aspiring authors is simple: just go ahead and write. Put down everything that stirs within you, on any subject that is calling out to be expressed. We live in a fast-paced, digital world filled with social media, news, literature, and endless creative ideas—there has never been a better time for aspiring writers to make their voice heard.
Above all, do not plagiarize. Write what you genuinely want to share with the world, guided by your own analytical mind and creative impulse. Trust your instincts, and let your unique perspective shine through in your writing.
10. Looking ahead, could you give us a glimpse into any upcoming projects you are currently working on?
Nagalaxmi M GY: I’m thrilled to share that I have three exciting books nearly ready for publication, each carrying powerful and impactful ideas. I’m proud to present myself as an author of short novels—or novelits—because in our fast-paced, digital world, readers often prefer stories that are concise yet meaningful. Just as media outlets now offer two-minute news updates to deliver value quickly, I believe short novels can provide the same impact—entertaining, thought-provoking, and easy to enjoy without demanding too much time.
These upcoming projects explore themes ranging from the mysteries of destiny and human choices, to the influence of technology on identity and relationships, to love, second chances, and life’s extraordinary moments. Each story blends humour, emotion, and insight, offering readers a rich experience in a compact, engaging format.
11. Are you active on social media, and what would be the best way for readers and fellow authors to connect with you?
Nagalaxmi M GY: You can find me on Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, Threads, and X (formerly Twitter). I also maintain a blog, where I warmly invite readers, followers, and fans to share their thoughts, feedback, and comments on my articles and books. I love hearing from my readers—it’s always inspiring to see how my work connects with people.
Follow or write to me on:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/ashmirao50?igsh=ZmNxcThjMG0weW13
Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/NaglakshmiMG
X (Twitter) handle – @ashmi50
WordPress link to my articles – https://share.google/5sZUAZEmkYwSuX0hh
About the author
NAGALAXMI M GY is a Professor of English from Bangalore with over 25 years of teaching experience. A seasoned journalist and counsellor, her writing reflects a deep understanding of language, the human psyche, and life’s unseen dimensions. Blending humour with emotional insight and philosophical depth, she explores love, destiny, and profound ideas with rare authenticity. Her work is a testament to her gift for storytelling that touches both the mind and heart.
