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  • S7 Ep 3 -  The Practical Marketer

    S7 Ep 3 -  The Practical Marketer
    2025/12/15
    Welcome to the True Fiction Project, your go-to podcast for exploring the journey of stories from their non-fiction roots to their fictional outcomes! I'm Reenita Hora, your host, and today we're doing something different and special. We have marketing strategy expert Saurabh Bajaj, Executive Vice President at Vodafone Idea and author of the fascinating book The Practical Marketer. We explore practical marketing strategies, brand positioning, consumer insights, and social media marketing. Saurabh reveals how category growth, market share, personal branding, and domain authority shape successful marketing campaigns and how those concepts can be applied to fiction writers and artists. He shares his digital marketing journey and the power of brand strategy. Tune in to hear his Cadbury Celebrations story—how a profound consumer insight about the Diwali holiday, "Iss Diwali Aap Kise Khush Karengay" (This Diwali, Who Will You Make Happy), inspired the iconic, successful campaign.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The fundamental brand strategy decision: pursue category growth or steal market share—this choice determines your entire marketing campaign approach.✅ Build personal branding and domain authority through social media marketing with vulnerable, authentic content that resonates with audiences.✅ How consumer insights and digital marketing evolved—why establishing context and authority matters more than keywords in modern practical marketing strategies.✅ The story behind Cadbury's iconic Diwali campaign and how understanding genuine human connection created a timeless brand positioning success.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Saurabh Bajaj, author of The Practical Marketer and how the pandemic sparked his writing journey 03:56 The fundamental brand strategy question: grow the category growth or steal market share08:03 Understanding your brand positioning task before executing any marketing campaigns13:33 Storytelling techniques for authors and how practical marketing strategies apply to creative professionals17:48 The evolution of social media marketing and building domain authority through authentic content26:11 Creating vulnerable, authentic content that builds personal branding and consumer insights32:00 Saurabh tells us an anecdote about the Cadbury Celebrations Diwali campaign story he spearheaded: discovering the power of genuine consumer connectionKEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 Understanding whether your goal is category growth or stealing market share is the most fundamental brand strategy decision that shapes all marketing campaigns and determines success.💎 Building domain authority through social media marketing requires authentic content creation and vulnerability—the posts that make you uncomfortable often perform best and create a genuine consumer connection.💎 Great consumer insights come from profound observation—Saurabh's Cadbury Celebrations campaign succeeded by discovering that Diwali represents a genuine human connection rather than transactions, a timeless insight still relevant today.ABOUT THE GUEST: Saurabh Bajaj has served as the Executive Vice President and Prepaid Marketing Head at Vodafone Idea since August 2022. An alumnus of Delhi College of Engineering and IIM Indore (2004), he brings over 21 years of sales and marketing expertise.His career spans a decade at Mondelez, Innovation Head for Premium & Luxury Spirits at Diageo, and over 5 years as Head of Marketing for Dairy & International Business at Britannia before joining Vodafone Idea. He was recognized among the 50 Best Marketing & Communication Professionals by White Page International (2020) and as a DMA Trailblazer Rising Star CMO (2021).The Practical MarketerSaurabh Bajaj - LinkedInThe Practical Marketer - InstagramSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    39 分
  • S7 Ep 2 - Hemlock Lane

    S7 Ep 2 - Hemlock Lane
    2025/11/25
    Character-driven fiction, multi-perspective narrative, and historical fiction await in this episode of the True Fiction Project! I'm Reenita Hora, your host, sitting down with award-winning journalist and novelist Marshall Fine. We'll explore his new novel Hemlock Lane, releasing today, November 25, 2025! It’s a women's fiction masterpiece told through a multi-perspective narrative over four days. Marshall shares his creative writing process, narrative structure techniques, and how film criticism and writing shaped his character development approach. Set in 1967, this book club fiction tackles second-wave feminism through family drama. Finally, Marshall reads an excerpt from Hemlock Lane which follows Nora Levitsky, a young woman on a quiet drive through upstate New York in the summer of 1967, at a roadside stop and with a handwritten note from her boyfriend which stirs unexpected emotions and the realization that she may be ready to imagine a future she once swore she’d never want.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to structure character-driven fiction using a multi-perspective narrative approach that reveals secrets gradually over four days✅ Narrative structure techniques for writing historical fiction set in 1960s America while making themes resonate with contemporary readers✅ How film criticism and writing, biography writing, and documentary filmmaking experience can enhance your creative writing process and character development skills✅ Methods for crafting compelling women's fiction and book club fiction that explores second-wave feminism and family dynamics through literary character study✅ Hemlock Lane is releasing on November 25th and is available for pre-order here: https://www.amazon.com/Hemlock-Lane-Novel-Marshall-Fine-ebook/dp/B0F1Z37XX6Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction to Marshall Fine's character-driven fiction novel Hemlock Lane and his background in film criticism and writing, biography writing, and documentary filmmaking01:49 Marshall's restless creativity philosophy and his approach to the creative writing process while working on multi-perspective narrative projects08:33 Discussion of Hemlock Lane's narrative structure: four days told from different character perspectives, classified as women's fiction and book club fiction11:06 Exploring the character development of domineering mother and daughter dynamics in historical fiction writing set in 1967 with second-wave feminism themes16:59 Marshall reads an excerpt from Hemlock Lane, introducing Nora Levitsky, demonstrating literary character study and flashback narrative techniques in contemporary fictionKEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 Character-driven fiction works best when you challenge yourself with structure—Marshall crafted Hemlock Lane as a multi-perspective narrative unfolding over four days, with each character's perspective revealing new insights into previous events through flashback narrative techniques💎 Writing historical fiction set in 1960s America requires balancing period-specific tensions with universal themes—while second wave feminism was shocking in 1967, the story's core about domineering parents and family members treading on eggshells resonates across generations in women's fiction💎 Drawing from diverse creative experiences enhances your creative writing process—Marshall's background in film criticism and writing, biography writing, and documentary filmmaking about rebels who charted their own paths directly influenced his character development approach in book club fictionABOUT THE GUESTS: Marshall Fine is an award-winning journalist, critic, and filmmaker with a 50-year career. Before his bestselling 2024 fiction debut, The Autumn of Ruth Winters, Fine wrote biographies of filmmakers John Cassavetes and Sam Peckinpah, directed documentaries about film critic Rex Reed and comedian Robert Klein, conducted the Playboy interview with Howard Stern, and chaired the New York Film Critics Circle four times. He currently lives in Ossining, New York.Marshall Fine - WebsiteHemlock Lane - AmazonSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    21 分
  • S7 Ep 1 - Not Quite

    S7 Ep 1 - Not Quite
    2025/11/04
    A queer South Asian woman’s story takes center stage at the start of season 7 of the True Fiction Project! I'm Reenita Hora, your host, diving into the groundbreaking world of queer storytelling with writer, comedian, and filmmaker Aneri Shah. We'll explore her journey from pre-med student to documentary filmmaking, her Eyebrow Queens podcast, and her television comedy pilot she’s written called, Not Quite, which is about queer reinvention. Aneri discusses creating LGBTQ+ content that challenges cultural norms and the absence of South Asian women filmmakers creating authentic bisexual coming-out stories. This episode features a concept teaser called Not Quite, demonstrating emotional authenticity in creating authentic LGBTQ+ content about cultural identity and women's friendship dynamics.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How queer South Asian representation is breaking new ground in television through comedy writing and independent film production that centers around South Asian women filmmakersThe creative journey from documentary filmmaking about ER physicians during the pandemic to developing LGBTQ+ television pilots that explore bisexual coming-out stories and cultural identity explorationThe power of podcast creation as a tool for discovering your voice and building community around queer South Asian representation and non-conformist life pathsHow creative reinvention happens gradually through embracing uncertainty, shedding labels, and creating LGBTQ+ content that explores women's friendship dynamics and self-actualizationSubscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymalCheck out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Aneri Shah, a South Asian woman filmmaker creating LGBTQ+ content about flawed, funny women and her creative reinvention journey from pre-med student to documentary filmmaking 03:52 Creating I'm Doing My Job documentary about ER physicians during the COVID-19 lockdown09:07 Discussion of Not Quite, LGBTQ+ comedy pilot exploring bisexual coming out stories, cultural identity exploration, and shedding labels in your thirties18:30 The importance of emotional authenticity in queer storytelling and representing South Asian American experience beyond parental relationships22:45 Listen to Aneri Shah's concept teaser called Not Quite.KEY TAKEAWAYS: Queer South Asian representation in media is virtually nonexistent for women—while there are examples with men like A Nice Indian Boy, there are no fully realized queer South Asian women characters on screen, making LGBTQ+ television shows. Emotional authenticity is the true superpower in queer storytelling—it's not just about putting a South Asian woman on screen, but making audiences feel her emotions deeplyCreative reinvention and coming out isn't just about sexuality—it's about questioning all the labels and assumptions you've made about yourself, from career paths to life goals, and recognizing that South Asian Women filmmakers can tell stories beyond the lens of parental approvalWomen's friendship dynamics shift dramatically when one friend stops performing and the other continues—exploring how South Asian American experience friendships evolve when someone begins self-actualizing is a universal theme that resonates across all women's relationshipsABOUT THE GUESTS: Aneri Shah is a writer, comedian, and filmmaker obsessed with telling stories about flawed, funny women - because perfect is boring. She hosts Eyebrow Kweenz, a salon-style podcast where guests blurt out their truths, is developing Not Quite, a comedy pilot about her queer reinvention, and directed I’m Doing My Job, a feature documentary about women of color ER physicians during the pandemic. She's adept at transforming her trauma into comedy with heart.Aneri Shah - Instagramtiktok.com/@kweenaneriInstagram.com/eyebrowkweenzEyebrow Kweenz - TikTokEyebrow Kweenz | Podcast on SpotifySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    27 分
  • Season 6 - Female Indian Artists Mashup

    Season 6 - Female Indian Artists Mashup
    2025/10/21

    Female Indian artists shine in this powerful mash-up episode from Season Six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, honoring the voices of female Indian artists who use writing to explore identity, culture, and creativity. From the sacred symbolism of the Narmada River to the reflections of Indian mixed-media artists like Laila Khan Furniturewalla, these stories reveal how words become art. We’ll explore themes of Indian cultural identity, resilience in art, and the historical depth of the Vermilion Harvest novel, shaped by the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. This collection of conversations of fiction and historical fiction highlights the brilliance of female Indian artists who write to empower and inspire.


    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    How female Indian artists use storytelling to share culture, resilience, and creativity

    The spiritual inspiration behind Narmada River rituals and its influence on artistic writing

    Insights from Indian mixed media artists like Laila Khan Furniturewalla and her creative journey

    How the Vermilion Harvest novel explores history through fiction, including the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy

    Why celebrating Indian cultural identity through literature empowers communities and future generations


    Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymal

    Check out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/


    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to the True Fiction Project, focusing on female Indian artists from Season Six

    02:15 Rachana Devidayal explains the creativity that flowed from the sacred Narmada River and other elements of her heritage

    06:45 Laila Khan Furniturewalla, daughter of Pharaoh Khan, is an Indian mixed media artist who focuses on heritage and art. Hear Laila O Laila

    14:23 Traci DeForge interviews Reenita’s publisher about her novel Vermillion Harvest Playtime at the Bagh, discussing how real life can inspire historical fiction

    17:00 Excerpt from Vermillion Harvest Playtime at the Bagh about forbidden love and the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, read by Reenita Hora


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:


    The introduction to the True Fiction Project highlights female Indian artists, storytelling, and Indian cultural identity

    Rachana Devidayal shares her journey as a female Indian artist, inspired by the sacred Narmada River, rituals and resilience in art

    💎 Laila Khan Furniturewalla, an Indian mixed media artist, reflects on heritage, creativity, and the legacy of female Indian artists

    💎 Exploration of the Vermilion Harvest novel, its connection to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy, and the power of female Indian artists in historical fiction


    ABOUT THE GUESTS:

    Rachana Devidayal - Website

    Laila Khan Furniturewalla - Website

    Vermilion Harvest: Playtime at the Bagh


    RESOURCES MENTIONED:

    Reenita Malhotra Hora - Website



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    25 分
  • Season 6 - Inspiring Stories of Hope and Love Mashup

    Season 6 - Inspiring Stories of Hope and Love Mashup
    2025/10/07

    Hope, loyalty, and love shine in this heartwarming mash-up from season six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, sharing uplifting stories that remind us of resilience, family bonds, and the power of kindness. We’ll hear from Mark Steven Porro and his touching memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode, capturing the humor and love in caregiving for his mother. Then, Brian Gotta brings us Him, a moving tale of a dog’s devotion and search for his best friend. Each story blends real-life inspiration with fiction that stirs the heart. Tune in today for interview highlights and unforgettable storytelling.


    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    How inspirational stories of hope, loyalty, and love can strengthen family bonds and inspire resilience in everyday life

    Why caregiving stories like Mark Steven Porro’s memoir highlight the humor, challenges, and rewards of showing kindness to loved ones

    Brian Gotta captures themes of devotion, trust, and emotional storytelling in his dog fiction story, Him.

    The way the True Fiction Project transforms real-life inspiration into fiction inspired by real life, creating uplifting and unforgettable narratives


    Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymal

    Check out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/


    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 Introduction to the True Fiction Project and how inspirational stories are born from real-life inspiration

    02:00 Mark shares his journey on how he began to be the caregiver for his mom in his memoir, filled with love, humor, and family bonds, in A Cup of Tea on the Commode

    03:17 A touching emotional storytelling scene highlights hope and resilience through children, bringing joy to Genevieve

    05:02 Brian discusses his self-publishing journey and writing dog lover fiction rooted in loyalty and devotion

    11:52 Reenita invites listeners to share great stories they would like to see featured on the True Fiction Project


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    The opening of the True Fiction Project highlights how inspirational stories, real-life inspiration, and emotional storytelling connect to human experiences.

    Mark Steven Porro’s memoir showcases caregiving stories, family bonds, and the power of love in difficult times.

    Brian Gotta shares his self-publishing journey, creating dog lover fiction that blends loyalty, hope, and devotion.

    Excerpt from Him delivers an uplifting story, trust, and kindness through the heartfelt eyes of a dog.


    ABOUT THE GUESTS:

    Mark Steven Porro - LinkedIn

    Brian Gotta - LinkedIn


    RESOURCES MENTIONED:

    A Cup of Tea on the Commode - Website

    Him - Book



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    13 分
  • Season 6 - Crime Thriller Mashup

    Season 6 - Crime Thriller Mashup
    2025/09/23

    Crime thrillers, suspense, and twists await in this gripping crime thriller mash-up review of season six of the True Fiction Project! I’m Reenita Hora, your host, diving into the thrilling world of crime thrillers with excerpts from talented fiction authors. We’ll explore Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor, a novel about a young man’s haunting choices after a life-altering tragedy. Then, Shakedown by Armand Rosamilia, where a crew member’s mistake risks everything. Finally, The Old Town Horror by Ed Moser uncovers a bloody investigation in historic Virginia. Each story weaves fiction inspired by real-life drama. Tune in today for interview snippets and stories.


    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    How crime thrillers blend suspense and real-life inspiration

    The power of twists in shaping gripping narratives

    How authors use fiction to reflect personal and historical drama

    Insights into the creative process behind storytelling


    Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free at https://substack.com/@reenitahora and to her YouTube channel to watch the video version of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@reenymal

    Check out her website to stay up-to-date on events, book releases and more! https://reenita.com/


    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00: Reenita Hora introduces a blend of crime thriller, non-fiction interviews, and fiction stories that explore life experiences.

    01:45: Rhonda shares how crime thrillers like Crossroads use suspense to highlight the impact of choices and drama in shaping lives.

    07:15: Armand discusses the market for crime thrillers and their appeal to readers craving twists and thrillers.

    15:15: Ed Moser reveals the scandalous history of Lafayette Square, tying crime thrillers to real secrets and drama.

    20:39 Reenita invites listeners to share great stories they would like to see featured on True Fiction Project


    KEY TAKEAWAYS:


    Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor: Choices lead to irreversible drama and trauma, urging readers to reflect on life's pivotal decisions before they spiral into suspense and tragedy.

    Shakedown by Armand Rosamilia: In the gritty world of crime thrillers, a single oversight can seal your fate, highlighting the deadly consequences of mistakes in high-stakes criminal operations.

    The Old Town Horror by Ed Moser: Historic locales hide layers of secrets and violence, where investigating murder unearths the eerie persistence of the past in modern thrillers.


    ABOUT THE GUESTS:

    Rhonda Parker Taylor (@rhondaparkertaylor) • Instagram photos and videos

    Armand Rosamilia (@armand_rosamilia) • Instagram photos and videos

    Ed Moser - LinkedIn


    RESOURCES MENTIONED:

    THE OLD TOWN HORROR: Murder and Theft in America’s Most Historic Locale

    Suspense Thriller Crossroads by Rhonda Parker Taylor

    ShakeDown (First Coast Thriller Series): 9798401775757: Rosamilia, Armand: Books



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    22 分
  • Season 6 - Children's Book Authors Mashup

    Season 6 - Children's Book Authors Mashup
    2025/09/09
    Welcome to this week’s True Fiction Project Podcast. We are in between seasons and in this special episode, we are mashing up three talented children’s book authors from Season 6, each bringing unique stories inspired by personal experiences. These episodes include Your Heart’s Voice, Leave Your Mark On The World, and The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic. All three stories touch on different heartstrings: handling grief, boosting self-esteem, and following your dreams. Tune in today for interview snippets and stories, and find the link to the full episodes in the notes below. Let’s jump right in!Also, Reenita is giving away free copies of her children’s book, Sundri and Mundri’s Lohri Adventure! Email her at reenita.malhotra@gmail.com or reach out on Instagram at @reenita_storyteller.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:30) Reenita shares information about her children’s book, titled Sundri and Mundri’s Lohri Adventure, and she is offering free copies! Email her at reenita.malhotra@gmail.com or reach out on Instagram at @reenita_storyteller(01:32) Interview snippet with Renee Green Murphy. She shares how grief from her brother’s 2022 loss inspired Your Heart’s Voice(03:30) Excerpt from Your Heart’s Voice by Renee Green Murphy(08:53) Interview snippet with Erica Silverman discussing her daughter’s self-esteem issues, inspiring Leave Your Mark On The World(09:40) Excerpt from Leave Your Mark On The World (12:38) Interview snippet with Vicky McGrath. She shares how her daughter’s veterinary dreams inspired The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic(15:06) Excerpt from The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic KEY TAKEAWAYS:Renee Green Murphy's Your Heart's Voice uses grief and intuition to craft a children's book that promotes self-awareness, helping young readers navigate emotions through a heartfelt story inspired by personal loss.Erica Silverman's Leave Your Mark On The World inspires self-esteem and perseverance in children's literature, showing a marker's journey to become permanent through kindness, resonating with young readers.Vicky McGrath's The Dragon And The Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic brings a veterinary clinic to life in a middle-grade graphic novel, using a hometown setting to engage readers with themes of friendship and aspiration.Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free! https://substack.com/@reenitahora FICTION CREDITS:Your Heart's Voice A short story written and read by Renee Green MurphyYour Heart's Voice - Website Renee Greene Murphy - WebsiteRenee Greene Murphy - LinkedInLeave Your Mark on the WorldA short story written and read by Erica SilvermanErica Silverman - WebsiteErica Silverman - LinkedInThe Dragon And The Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic A short story written and read by Vicky McGrathVicky McGrath - WebsiteVicky McGrath - LinkedInThe Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tails from the Clinic: Book 1RESOURCES:S6 Ep 2 - Your Heart's Voice–True Fiction Project S6 Ep 3 - Leave Your Mark on the World - True Fiction Project S6 Ep 7 - The Dragon and the Mysterious Artifact: Tales from the Clinic - True Fiction ProjectHOST RESOURCESWebsiteLinkedIn Tiktok Instagram Facebook Twitter (X) Substack Threads LinkTree Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    18 分
  • Revisited - India at 75: A special "Partition Story" with Shukla Lal, author of Rano and Phulo

    Revisited - India at 75: A special "Partition Story" with Shukla Lal, author of Rano and Phulo
    2025/08/19
    In this revisited episode, we have a very special show because we are celebrating the anniversary of Independent India, which fell on August 15th. Our special guest is Shukla Lal, a writer based in New Delhi, who has recently written a book detailing her personal experience from the partition that led to India’s Independence. We hear the amazing story of her father’s incredible escape in the midst of the violence and mayhem of the partition. Later in the episode, Shukla’s daughter, Sonia Kullar, reads an excerpt from Shukla’s book, Rano and Phulo. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:50] Shukla and her new book on the 75th Anniversary of the Partition of India are introduced. [05:39] We hear about Shukla’s family’s experience before the partition and how her father escaped. [11:45] We learn how her true events are interwoven into her short story. [14:30] We explore how Shukla’s story captures an India frozen in time. [18:50] Has India grown into the identity it desired after the partition? [21:16] We hear about the future of India and more about Shukla’s written work. [24:57] An excerpt from Rano & Phulo written by Shukla Lal, and read by Shukla’s daughter, Sonia Kullar KEY TAKEAWAYS: Shukla and her family left for Shimla on holiday, never believing that they would not return to their home due to rising political and religious tensions, now known as the partition of India. Her book is based on her family’s experience during this time. Following the partition, there was a renewed sense of nationalism and patriotism. It was also a time where women were leading out in entrepreneurship and contributing as business women. India continues to rise and be recognized for its culture and ethics. Since the 60s and 70s it has grown from being a developing and poor nation to being a globally recognized and self-respecting nation. Subscribe to Reenita’s Storytelling Den on Substack for free! You will also be eligible for other extras, such as exclusive content from podcast guests, short stories, exclusive fiction, and more! https://substack.com/@reenitahora Fiction Credits: Excerpt taken from Rano & Phulo, a book written by Shukla Lal Shukla Lal's website Shukla Lal's Facebook Link for further research Excerpt read by: Sonia Kullar, Shukla Lal’s daughter Sonia's email BIO: Shukla Lal was born in Amritsar. As a child, she imbibed the beauty and diversity of this beautiful land – India, as her family moved from Amritsar, Lahore, Shimla, to the Central and Southern cities of Madras (now Chennai), Nagpur and Hyderabad and eventually found their anchor in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in the early-1950s. Over 40 years later, she moved to New Delhi to retire. Since catching the literary bug on her 80th birthday, Shukla has written two historical romance sagas, Floating Logs set in Kolkata (published by Notion Press in December 2019), and Rano and Phulo set in Undivided and then partitioned India (published by Goya Publishing in March, 2019), and a collection of poems, Meri Nazmon ka Ehsaas (soon to be published) all captured gamely on her iPad Notes App. She has finished the first draft of her third historical novel, Soul’s Rapture, a mystical romance set in Lahore and Mumbai. She has also written several short stories. She was invited to write for the Chandigarh Tribune, and has been interviewed for the Reader’s Digest, the Times of India, the Telegraph (Kolkata), and www.womensweb.com. Her deep spiritual practice and sense of wonder for the beauty of the world around her find expression in her storytelling. Her own lived experience adds luster and authenticity to her stories. Joyful wit and multilingual expressiveness is a family trait she inherited from her parents and shares with her accomplished siblings. Her choice of stories and writing style could best be understood from her own words “I am a romantic and an idealist by nature and find true romance scattered everywhere irrespective of class, creed, religion, nationality or age”. Shukla Lal Website Shukla Lal on Facebook (personal) Shukla Lal on Facebook (business) Shukla Lal on Instagram Good Reads - Shukla Lal If you would like to purchase any of Shukla Lal’s books, follow these links:: Amazon India Flipkart Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/true-fiction-project/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    33 分