Blogchatter Author Interview Series- Roshan Radhakrishnan

Roshan Radhakrishnan

Anesthesiologist Dr Roshan Radhakrishnan has had over 25 short stories published in various anthologies.

He is the only Indian to win First place in both Season One and Two of ‘Write India’, India’s largest literary contest ever.

Hi Roshan, congrats for being a part of the Blogchatter Thriller anthology. How you felt after writing this story?

I was definitely nervous. I really hoped the judges of Blogchatter Anthology Team would like it. It was a style that was different for me.

What Runs in Our Blood–  How did this plot come to your mind?  Any real life experience encouraged you to write this story?

I grew up listening to stories of injustice within the caste system and without going into too much detail, yes, have faced it too at some really unusual instances. At the same time, I did not want the story I wrote on this premise to be preachy. I hope the twist I offer in the story does that for the reader.

How many days did it take you to write this story?

Over a week, at the very least. There was a bit of research as well to try and get the historical period accurate.

What are the elements of thriller you consider a must for every thriller story?

I definitely feel there should be a reason to root for the protagonist. A short story allows you to deliver a twist in the tale better but making one understand the mindset of the key characters is definitely important to me.

Where you love to sit and write when a plot is knitting in your mind? A special surrounding is needed to bring out the plot from mind to paper?

I definitely would feel more comfortable writing in my own space which ideally would be a comfy desk by the window with a fine selection of pens. Unfortunately, reality means I just have my own bed and a laptop to work on!

How did writing come into your life?

I started writing short stories as early as the eighth standard at school. I’ve written short stories through high school and medical college and eventually when the idea of blogging came, started my own in 2005. That would end up earning me a lot of laurels as the years passed by and helped shape my writing skills too, resulting in over 24 short stories being published in national and international publications and anthologies.

Who is your favorite thriller author?

I would have to say authors like Stephen King and Jeffrey Deaver.

What are your other passions in life?

I would have to admit I’m pretty much a couch potato once work is done so life right now would be all about sitcoms and movies.

Is thriller your first love in writing or is it different? What genre of writing do you love the most and why?

I do enjoy mysteries more than thrillers in the pure sense when it comes to writing and probably horror when it comes to reading.

How do you rate yourself as a writer?

Maybe a solid 6 out of 10, touchwood.