Anoushka Pant Talks About Her Book “The First 25”

About the Author:

Originally from Almora, Uttarakhand, Anoushka’s childhood was defined by constant movement, shaped by her father’s transferable job, and attending nine different schools. She completed her 11th and 12th grades at Woodstock School, Mussoorie, before pursuing an undergraduate degree at Agnes Scott College, Atlanta, Georgia. Introduced to Bharatanatyam at the age of four, dance became her soul’s language. In her teens, she discovered theatre, igniting a deep and lasting passion. This seamless fusion of dance and drama became the foundation of her artistic identity. At Agnes Scott, she earned a BA in Business Management and Dance, refining her craft. From global stages to virtual platforms, her performances have transcended borders, creating bridges of cultural understanding. Her creative exploration now extends beyond performance, branching into writing and painting, as she continues to deepen her artistic expression.

Exclusive interview with the author

Q: What Inspired You To Write This Book?

A:What inspires me the most are the meaningful connections I’ve made with the people around me—my family, my friends, and the many wonderful individuals I’ve met throughout my travels. Looking back on my life, from childhood to where I am now, I see how these relationships have shaped who I am and continue to inspire me in my creative journey. There’s something truly special about the way our shared human experiences bring us together, no matter where we come from or what we’ve been through. This realization fills me with a deep sense of purpose and encourages me to keep exploring, sharing, and expressing my thoughts and emotions. It’s those raw, authentic moments that truly inspire me to write, create, and connect with others.

Q: Can You Tell Us About The Book?

A: This book is a collection of emotions drawn from my own experiences, with recurring themes of vulnerability and sadness woven throughout the poetry and prose. Since childhood, I’ve felt deeply for others, a trait that has stayed with me into adulthood. It offers an honest look at my thoughts and experiences—both personal and shared. Divided into three sections—Thoughts, Memories, and Love—this book traces my emotional journey from childhood to the present. Each piece is like a thread, woven together into a fabric I carry every day, reflecting significant life moments and the experiences of those around me. I share these pages with an open heart, hoping they resonate with your own journey. While every path is unique, I invite you to find pieces of your own story here, embracing a range of emotions and fostering empathy for ourselves and others.

Q: What Does The Title Mean?

A: The title is quite straightforward. It reflects the 25 years of my life that I’ve lived and learned from. As I journaled, I began to realize that every word I’ve written is tied to an emotion that stays with me, shaping the person I am today. Each experience, no matter how big or small, has left its mark on my heart and mind, and this book is a way of sharing those moments.

Q: What Did You Learn When Writing The Book?

A: As an artist, I’ve always been drawn to exploring different forms of expression, yet for some reason, I would shy away from sharing my writing with others. Journaling my thoughts and feelings has been a personal practice for years, and while revisiting my diaries, I discovered a rhythm—a poetic nuance woven through my entries. That’s when I decided to begin writing this book, finding the courage to share these words with the world. Through this journey, I’ve come to realize that each experience forms a compartment in our memory, one that we open at different points in our lives. These compartments hold emotions and lessons, and as we continue forward, we create new ones. Our minds are filled with these personal stories, each compartment holding its own significance. What fascinates me is how, though our memories may differ, the emotions tied to them remain universal—shared by all, regardless of time or place.

Q: Where Do You Get Your Information Or Ideas For Your Books?

A: All my ideas are rooted in my own experiences—the people I encounter, the places I visit, the challenges I face, the meaningful moments that shape my journey.