Author Interview: Vaisshali S. Behani on Dil Ka Adhura Panna

Q1: What inspired you to write Dil Ka Adhura Panna? Was there a specific moment or story that sparked the idea?
Ans: Writing a book has been my dream since childhood. My father, an avid reader, always said, “Books are your best friends. The ones you read shape you.” His words stayed with me. After getting married, I began writing poetry but wasn’t aware of how to craft stories. One day, I saw a contest inviting short stories limited to 1200 words. That was the first time I wrote a story—and people loved it. That marked the beginning of my journey. Dil Ka Adhura Panna started unexpectedly too. Someone suggested I write it in parts—one each day—so readers would look forward to the next segment. I loved the idea, and piece by piece, it became a full novel.

Q2: Girija, the protagonist, is incredibly nuanced and emotionally layered. Is she inspired by someone in real life—or a part of yourself?
Ans: Not exactly—she’s a fictional character. But her values do reflect some parts of me.

Q3: Your writing beautifully captures silence and emotional subtleties. How do you approach writing such quiet yet powerful emotions?
Ans: I’m an emotional person by nature, and I believe in love deeply. I’ve experienced life up close and have been surrounded by women since childhood. I’ve witnessed my mother’s strength and my mother-in-law’s softness. As I mention in the book, characters tend to speak to me. When you can feel someone else’s pain deeply, writing about it becomes natural—as though you’re going through it too.

Q4: As someone who works as a Vedic Wealth Coach, how does your spiritual and energetic understanding influence your storytelling?
Ans: Spirituality allows you to see beyond the surface. It softens you so that you can feel deeply, and it sharpens your clarity of thought. I’ve been spiritual since birth, and all my characters in this novel reflect that—they’re aligned with their values and inner compass.

Q5: What does the title Dil Ka Adhura Panna mean to you on a personal level?
Ans: Everyone has an incomplete page in their heart—perhaps I do too, one I’ve yet to discover. The title represents not only a woman’s strength as seen through Girija and Vimmi—each fighting her own battle without giving up—but also the depth of Sharad’s longing. Mini, the modern girl, doesn’t just think of her career—she’s more concerned about her mother’s respect and happiness. She doesn’t resent someone entering her mother’s life; she helps her find joy again. When I reflect on the characters—Sharad, Vimmi, Girija, and Mini—I see small pieces of myself in each of them.

Q6: Many readers feel this book reflects their own inner story. Did you intend for it to be so introspective and universal?
Ans: Not at all. I initially intended to write a love story. But once I began, the story flowed on its own. I’ve always wanted to support women and improve their lives. Perhaps that deep-seated desire found its way into the novel—and now so many women tell me they see themselves in it. I’m truly grateful to them and to God.

Q7: How do you balance being both a guide for personal transformation and a fiction writer?
Ans: It’s like a light switch—on and off! As a coach, I focus entirely on real results in the present moment. My clients’ growth defines my success. But when I sit down to write—with pen and paper—my mind naturally shifts into creative mode. I don’t force it. I think that’s where spirituality comes in—being unattached to results allows true creativity to flow. Fiction isn’t always fiction—these stories happen somewhere in the universe. The universe just chooses you to bring them to life.

Q8: You explore a woman’s emotional labor, silence, and resilience deeply. What message did you want to give through Girija’s journey?
Ans: Live for yourself. Be someone you can meet in the mirror with pride. Accept the joy life offers—don’t postpone happiness. Be strong enough that no one can take advantage of you, and soft enough to understand others’ pain. Freedom comes with responsibility. A new life doesn’t mean leaving your past behind—you can carry it with you. Even if a page in your heart feels incomplete, try to finish it instead of tearing it away.

Q9: What kind of research or inner preparation did you do before writing this novel?
Ans: Honestly, none. This novel came straight from the heart. Whatever improvements were made came from feedback by readers and friends. As it was my first novel, I didn’t know research or preparation were part of the process.

Q10: The narrative style is poetic and lyrical. Is poetry a part of your writing process?
Ans: Absolutely. I was a poet before I became a novelist. It comes naturally—perhaps as a gift from above. I’ve written hundreds of poems, but this novel became my first solo book. We never truly know what the universe has in store.

Q11: What was the most challenging part of writing this book—and the most healing?
Ans: Writing about Sharad and Vimmi was tough. You can’t write about Sharad’s life without including Vimmi’s emotions and the pain of discovering the truth. I had to portray bitterness without compromising her dignity. On the other hand, writing Girija’s healing journey—her ability to let go of the past and embrace life—was incredibly therapeutic. It felt like I was healing myself alongside her.

Q12: Who are the writers or books that have influenced your voice as an author?
Ans: I’ve loved Madhushala since childhood—we used to listen to it every Sunday. I’ve read Munshi Premchand and Amrita Pritam. More recently, I’ve appreciated Satyaprakash Dubey, Manav Kaul, and Ankita Jain. I admire Sudha Murty ji and Kajal Ojha Vaidya. Meeting Shanta Gokhale ji and Priya Dutt recently was also inspiring.

Q13: How do you want readers to feel after finishing Dil Ka Adhura Panna?
Ans: I don’t want to dictate what readers should feel—emotions should be free. But if they see Dil Ka Adhura Panna as their own story, or something close to their heart, I will be truly honoured. The love and connection I’ve received from readers already overwhelms me.

Q14: Are there any particular reader reactions or messages that deeply moved you?
Ans: Yes—one reader sent me a long, heartfelt review. The way he described each character and my writing touched me deeply. It gave me renewed motivation to complete my unfinished works.

Q15: Can we expect a continuation, companion novel, or more stories in the same emotional-spiritual vein?
Ans: Yes, though not immediately. I’m currently working on something different. It may not be a direct sequel to Dil Ka Adhura Panna, but it will certainly come from the heart. If any reader wishes me to tell their life story, they’re most welcome. Spirituality is part of me—and so it will always be part of my writing.

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