Sandy & Vyjay Speaks- Contributing Storyteller of The Shakti Within

Posted by On November 13, 2024 1 Comment
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Sandy and Vyjay are an accomplished travel-writing couple who manage Voyager, a leading travel site known for its high-quality, original content. Recognized with the Best Travel Writer award in 2019, their blog covers a broad range of topics, including luxury travel, family-friendly experiences, and cultural journeys worldwide. Voyager also offers insights on travel tips, hotels, resorts, and advocates for responsible, sustainable tourism. With a focus on enriching travel experiences, Sandy and Vyjay inspire readers to explore thoughtfully. Follow their adventures on their website, imvoyager.com, and Instagram at @imvoyager18.

In conversation with Samata Dey – Founder Indiacafe24.com and compiler and editor of The Shakti Within- Durga’s Call

Before we dive into The Call of Devi Chamundeshwari, could you tell us a bit about your background as a writer and what led you to explore historical and spiritual themes in your work?

We are essentially travel writers and have been published in various national and international publications. We also write extensively about travel destinations, heritage, and culture on our travel website. We have been drawn towards the themes of history, heritage, and spirituality, and our travel across India has given us wide exposure to these in various destinations. This has also fuelled our interest in writing about historical and spiritual themes, be it fiction or non-fiction.

What inspired you to explore the genesis of the Wodeyar dynasty through a blend of myth and historical fiction?

We have a deep connection with Mysuru city, the erstwhile Kingdom of Mysore, as our forefathers hailed from this place. Growing up we have listened to stories about the Wodeyar kings from our parents and grandparents, and this is what led us to explore the genesis of the dynasty and spin a tale around it.

The divine calling of Devi Chamundeshwari adds a spiritual depth to Yaduraya’s journey. How did you conceptualize her role in guiding him, and what does she symbolize in this story?

Devi Chamundeshwari is even now the family deity of the Wodeyars. Her image is carried on a golden howdah on an elaborately decorated elephant during the grand Mysore Dasara celebrations. The dynasty has a deep connection with the deity, and according to legend she was the driving force behind the establishment of the Wodeyar dynasty. She symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, as she ensures that the kingdom of Mysore is freed from tyranny and oppression, by summoning Yaduraya to Mysore.

Yaduraya’s recurring vision and quest reveal themes of destiny and self-discovery. What do you hope readers take away from his journey?

We are great believers in destiny. We hope readers take this as a message to follow their dreams, whatever be the challenges they face.

The setting of the story—from Dwarka to Mahishooru—brings two distinct landscapes together. How did you approach weaving the coastal and mountainous regions into the story, and what role do they play in shaping Yaduraya’s character?

It is believed that the Wodeyars are descendants of the Yadavas, the dynasty to which Krishna belonged. We have been to Dwarka a number of times, and the vibes of the place are surreal, so we wove Dwarka as the setting for the initial part of the story. Dwarka is the land of Krishna, and it is he who highlighted the philosophy of Karma. This is ingrained into the character of Yaduraya, who follows his destiny, relentlessly.

In this tale, familial bonds, particularly between Yaduraya and his brother, Krishnaraya, are central. Could you share your thoughts on the importance of these relationships in the narrative?

Again, in this bond between Yaduraya and Krishnaraya, we have drawn a parallel with the bond between Krishna and Balarama.

The story intertwines elements of devotion, courage, and loyalty. How do you see these values reflected in the Wodeyar dynasty’s legacy, and what drew you to highlight them in The Call of Devi Chamundeshwari?

The legacy of the Wodeyars is that of welfare projects for their subjects, in the form of hospitals, educational institutions, and public works. Their devotion to Devi Chamundeshwari is also legendary, and hence the story is as much about Chamundeshwari Devi as it is about the faith and devotion of the Wodeyars.

Any suggestion or tips for budding authors?

Write about what you love and are passionate about. The words will just flow effortlessly. Of course, back it with lots of research, and then garnish it with generous doses of creativity. Develop your own style.

 

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