The Rise Insight is delighted to extend its warmest congratulations to Aparna P, whose gripping work “Bangalore to Kochi: The Secret on the Wheels” has been officially nominated under the Fiction – Mystery Category for the TRI Literary Awards 2026 – Season 04. This recognition celebrates her remarkable storytelling prowess, her deep understanding of human emotions, and her ability to turn an ordinary bus journey into an unforgettable psychological thriller. Through her evocative writing, Aparna brings to life a world where trust is fragile, motives are layered, and every passing moment carries the weight of hidden truths. Her nomination highlights the growing impact of her literary voice and her significant contribution to contemporary Indian fiction.
“Bangalore to Kochi: The Secret on the Wheels” offers readers not just a thrilling narrative, but an immersive emotional experience. Set during an overnight KSRTC bus journey, the story begins as a routine travel scene and gradually transforms into a night of suspicion, tension, and unexpected revelations. With five passengers—each bearing their own fears, regrets, ambitions, and secrets—the atmosphere steadily intensifies as their paths intersect with Arjun, an undercover officer quietly observing the unfolding events. Aparna masterfully builds suspense through subtle details, natural conversations, and shifting emotions, keeping readers captivated until dawn breaks with a surprising revelation. Her ability to blend mystery with emotional depth makes this novel both entertaining and thought-provoking, showcasing a powerful combination of realism and imagination.
Why TRI Chose This Book for the TRI Literary Awards 2026
A Fresh and Authentic Indian Mystery Thriller
The TRI Award committee commended the book for bringing a refreshing Indian perspective to the mystery-thriller genre. While the story is rooted in the familiar experience of intercity bus travel, it transforms this everyday setting into a high-stakes psychological landscape. Aparna’s use of a real and relatable backdrop enhances the tension and emotional complexity of the narrative, making it instantly engaging for a wide range of readers. The authenticity, cultural nuance, and depth of characterization stood out as key strengths that elevate the book far beyond a conventional thriller.
Complex Characters and Emotional Resonance
A significant reason for the book’s selection is its portrayal of layered human emotions. Each character carries their own inner battles—ambition, guilt, hope, trauma—and these personal threads intertwine seamlessly with the central mystery. The committee highlighted how Aparna’s storytelling brings forward the often-ignored truth that every person, no matter how ordinary they appear, holds a universe within. This emotional undercurrent enriches the suspense and creates a narrative that resonates long after the final page.
A Mastery of Suspense and Psychological Insight
Rather than relying on dramatic twists alone, Aparna P builds suspense through atmosphere, conversation, and psychological depth. The steady unraveling of secrets, combined with Arjun’s covert mission, keeps the plot gripping without losing its subtlety. The committee praised the book for its sophisticated pacing, its controlled tension, and its ability to maintain intrigue without overwhelming the reader. This balance of thrill and thoughtfulness aligns perfectly with TRI’s vision of honoring literature that excels both in craft and impact.
The Author’s Unique Voice and Literary Promise
Aparna’s distinctive ability to draw inspiration from everyday moments and transform them into unforgettable stories deeply impressed the jury. Her authentic Indian voice, empathetic understanding of human behavior, and reflective approach to storytelling make her a promising and influential figure in modern fiction. The nomination acknowledges her talent for crafting emotionally rich narratives and her commitment to exploring the hidden sides of people, choices, and consequences.
A Well-Deserved Nomination
The Rise Insight once again congratulates Aparna P for her prestigious nomination at the TRI Literary Awards 2026. “Bangalore to Kochi: The Secret on the Wheels” is a gripping, emotionally charged, and expertly crafted mystery thriller that reminds us how little we truly know about the people around us. Her work reinforces the power of storytelling to reveal truths, spark reflection, and connect readers across experiences. We wish her the very best for the award results and look forward to the stories she continues to bring to the literary world.
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