- January 10, 2025
Ashwin Kumar Iyer Talks About His Book “Sunrise Years”
About the Author:
Ashwin Kumar Iyer is a senior living industry leader and storyteller whose work merges professional expertise with a passion for honoring India’s elderly. As Director of ELEMENTS Senior Living, he is dedicated to creating compassionate spaces where seniors can thrive with dignity and respect. In Sunrise Years, Ashwin brings his depth of experience to explore the unique challenges and cultural nuances of senior care in South India. His writing provides a comprehensive, empathetic perspective on aging, family dynamics, and societal change, making a compelling case for seeing elders as integral to the fabric of community and tradition.
Exclusive interview with the author
Q: What Inspired You To Write This Book?
A: The challenges faced by Seniors in our Retirement Communities and I see on a day to day basis otherwise inspired me to explore senior care deeply and offer a guide that respects their dignity and needs.
Q: Can You Tell Us About The Book?
A: SUNRISE YEARS is a comprehensive exploration of senior care in the South Indian context, covering aging, health, legal, financial, and cultural aspects, and advocating for better support systems for elders.
Q: What Does The Title Mean?
A:The title symbolizes the idea that the later years of life can be as vibrant and fulfilling as a sunrise—a new chapter filled with potential and light.
Q: Was The Character Inspired By A Real Person?
A:The book isn’t character-driven, but many real-life stories and experiences, especially those elders who live in our retirement communities, shaped its content.
Q: How Long Does It Take You To Write A Book?
A: SUNRISE YEARS took about one and half to two years, as it involved extensive research, interviews, and personal reflections.
Q: When Did You Write Your First Book And How Old Were You?
A: I wrote Sunrise Years and my other book Wrinkleskin Stories almost in the same time, in parallel. IN a sort of way, both these books are twins.
Q: What, In Your Opinion, Are The Most Important Elements Of Good Writing?
A: Clarity, relevance, and emotional resonance are essential to connect with readers meaningfully.
Q:What Does Success Mean To You? What Is The Definition Of Success?
A:Success is creating a resource that genuinely helps people and sparks positive change.
Q: Which Of Your Books Were The Most Enjoyable To Write?
A:SUNRISE YEARS was deeply personal and rewarding, as it felt like a tribute to elders.
Q: Tell Us About Your First Published Book? What Was The Journey Like?
A: It was a mix of challenges and triumphs—research, reflection, and a learning curve in writing. Seeing it in print was immensely fulfilling.
Q: What Are Your Top 3 Books?
A: I have told this elsewhere also.. In English, Savitri by Shri. Aurobindo always stands on top. I am amazed at the book at multiple levels. All of RK Narayan’s stories are my all time favourite short story collections. Bibek Debroy’s critical version of the Massive Mahabharata is a precious possession to me.
Q: What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Authors?
A: Write with purpose, research thoroughly, and trust that your voice and message have the power to make a difference.
This book is published by OrangeBooks Publication. All rights are reserved with the author & the publisher.
