In her debut novel, ‘The Curse of the Vedic Code’, Jaya Siva Murty masterfully weaves together ancient Vedic wisdom, the intrigue of artificial intelligence, and the allure of a gripping mystery. The novel’s premise, blending the traditional with the contemporary, reflects her deep-rooted connection with India’s cultural heritage and her storytelling abilities.
In a candid conversation, Visakhapatnam-based Jaya shares the journey of bringing her vision to life and the inspiration behind her work.
The genesis of the novel
Born and raised in Lucknow who spent a considerable time in rural and tribal parts of Andhra Pradesh post marriage, Jaya was immersed in the richness of Indian culture from an early age. These experiences, she says, were instrumental in shaping her world-view. “Living in these regions opened me up to the treasure trove of wisdom India possesses. It’s our inheritance, and I felt the responsibility to carry it forward,” she reflects.
Choosing a thriller as her medium was a deliberate decision to connect with younger audiences. “Thrillers have a universal appeal. I wanted to use this genre to make elements of our culture, especially the lesser-known aspects, accessible to the next generation.”
The book delves into jyotisham (astrology), a part of the Atharva Veda. “The Vedas have been with us for centuries, yet they are sidelined in the current education system. Through my story, I wanted to highlight one facet of that ancient knowledge,” Jaya explains.
Research and writing process
Bringing authenticity to ‘The Curse of the Vedic Code’ required meticulous research. Jaya spent considerable time interacting with Nadi Shastra experts and astrologers. “Much of the first-hand information I gathered added layers to the narrative. I wanted the interplay of scriptural knowledge and AI to feel seamless and intriguing throughout the book,” she says.
Reflecting on the challenges of writing her first novel, Jaya shares, “First drafts are always messy. It’s okay if your writing doesn’t read as well as you want it to. Rework, edit, and rewrite—it’s all part of the process.”
She credits reading as a critical part of her growth as a writer. “Reading good literature is essential. I encourage aspiring writers to explore a variety of books—it broadens your perspective and sharpens your craft.”
Jaya’s writing style focuses on simplicity and accessibility. “I believe in using language that resonates with everyone. A good story shouldn’t alienate its audience,” she emphasizes.
Character development is another area where Jaya invests significant effort. “Each character should have a distinct personality and voice. It helps create vivid imagery for the reader.”
She also believes a story should appeal to all the senses. “Your reader should be able to see, feel, hear, and even smell what’s happening in the narrative. Whether it’s the aroma of coffee or the steam rising from hot piping idlis, these details make the story come alive.”
For those embarking on their writing journey, Jaya offers sage advice: “Don’t be afraid of imperfection. Writing is an iterative process. The more you read and write, the better you get. Let your story speak to the senses and resonate with the soul.”
Published - January 24, 2025 08:35 am IST
