About Mayank Tomar
Born on 01 October 1983 in Chhatarpur (M.P.). Presently working as Assistant Professor at Amity Institute of Social Sciences, Amity University, Noida, UP. He did his initial studies from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Jaura, Manpur and then completed his BA from Maharani Lakshmibai College of Excellence, Gwalior. After completing M.A (Sociology) from Hyderabad Central University, M.Phil. degree from Jiwaji University Gwalior. He has received the degree of PhD from Dr. Harisingh Gaur University, Sagar.
LiFT: Tell us about your book, the journey of writing it and its content.
Mayank Tomar: This is the story of Sandhi, an Indian woman studying medicine in Ukraine who gets trapped there during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. An ordinary girl trapped in the horrific environment of war faces her fears and insecurities and sets out to give the message of peace to the world. This novel shows the transformation of her personality at every moment. Running for her life, Sandhi comes into contact with people facing the consequences of war and finds her way through the emotions of suffering, death, love, and humanity. The grief of losing his loved ones in this journey and the falling level of human emotions shake his conscience so much that he sets out on a new journey full of sacrifice, determination, and indomitable courage, ignoring his parents and family while making his way to India. But he moves where the entire humanity is his family, and he has only one weapon for its protection: peace.
LiFT: Why you chose this title?
Mayank Tomar: The title “लहू बोते मानव” (Lahoo Bote Manav) was chosen deliberately to encapsulate the essence of the novel. “लहू” (Lahoo) signifies blood, which symbolizes the deep-rooted conflicts and struggles depicted in the story. “बोते” (Bote) translates to seeds, representing the potential for growth, change, and transformation. Finally, “मानव” (Manav) refers to humanity, emphasizing the central theme of human resilience, empathy, and the universal quest for peace. Together, the title serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of human suffering and the enduring hope for a better, more peaceful world.
LiFT: When did you realize that you want to be a writer and what’s your inspiration behind it?
Mayank Tomar: I realized my passion for writing and poetry at a young age, captivated by the power of words to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and spark change. Growing up, I found solace and inspiration in literature, finding resonance in the works of great writers and poets who used their craft to illuminate the human experience.
My inspiration behind pursuing writing stems from a deep-seated desire to give voice to the silenced, shed light on untold stories, and contribute to meaningful conversations about social justice, empathy, and the human condition. Whether through prose or poetry, I aspire to create art that resonates with readers, fostering connection, understanding, and perhaps even stirring a sense of collective responsibility to strive for a better world.
LiFT: Where do you see yourself ten years down the line in the world of literature?
Mayank Tomar: In the realm of literature, I envision myself ten years from now as a tireless advocate for the marginalized, a champion of the voiceless, and a beacon of hope for the oppressed. I see my writing as a powerful tool for shedding light on the injustices faced by the most vulnerable members of our global community—the poor, the disenfranchised, and the downtrodden.
With every word I pen, I aim to amplify the voices of those whose stories are often overlooked or silenced by societal inequities. Through my novels and poetry, I seek to illuminate the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of individuals living on the margins, offering readers a window into worlds they may never have encountered otherwise.
My aspirations extend beyond mere literary acclaim; they are rooted in a profound commitment to social justice and human rights. I envision myself using my platform to advocate for systemic change, to challenge the status quo, and to inspire others to join me in the fight for a more just and equitable world.
Whether through immersive narratives that transport readers to the frontlines of social upheaval, or through stirring verse that captures the raw emotion of lived experience, I aim to ignite empathy, provoke action, and catalyze meaningful change. In doing so, I hope to leave behind a literary legacy that not only entertains and enlightens but also empowers and uplifts the voices of the needy, vulnerable, and marginalized—forever championing their rights, their dignity, and their humanity.
LiFT: How much do you think marketing or quality of a book is necessary to promote a particular book and increase its readers?
Mayank Tomar: Marketing and the quality of a book are both crucial factors in promoting a particular book and increasing its readership. While a high-quality book may garner praise and acclaim on its own merits, effective marketing plays a vital role in ensuring that it reaches its intended audience and receives the recognition it deserves.
Quality is paramount because readers ultimately seek engaging, well-crafted stories that resonate with them on a personal level. A book that is well-written, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant is more likely to attract readers through positive word-of-mouth recommendations and critical acclaim.
However, even the most exceptional book can languish in obscurity without effective marketing to promote it. Marketing efforts help to raise awareness of the book’s existence, generate buzz, and create opportunities for engagement with potential readers. This includes strategies such as social media promotion, book signings, author interviews, book reviews, and advertising campaigns.
In today’s competitive publishing landscape, striking the right balance between quality and marketing is essential. A high-quality book serves as the foundation for success, while strategic marketing efforts help to amplify its reach and impact. Ultimately, a combination of both is necessary to maximize the book’s potential and increase its readership.
LiFT: What is the message you want to spread among folks with your writings?
Mayank Tomar: The message I aim to spread among readers with my writings is one of empathy, understanding, and social consciousness. Through my stories and poetry, I strive to illuminate the shared humanity that binds us all together, regardless of our differences. I hope to inspire readers to look beyond surface-level distinctions and to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.
Central to my work is a call for compassion and solidarity with those who are marginalized or oppressed. I seek to shed light on the injustices and inequalities that persist in our world, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and to take meaningful action toward positive change.
Moreover, I aspire to ignite a sense of hope and possibility in my readers, reminding them of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of collective action. Whether through stories of personal triumph over adversity or reflections on the beauty and fragility of life, I endeavor to uplift and inspire, leaving readers with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the world around them.
LiFT: What do you do apart from writing?
Mayank Tomar: Apart from writing, I find fulfillment in teaching, guiding young minds towards values of morality, love, and justice. As an educator, I prioritize fostering empathy and critical thinking in my students, creating a classroom environment where these virtues thrive. Outside the classroom, I immerse myself in literature, drawn to the profound themes of love and humanity in ghazals and the timeless wisdom of great authors. Cooking is another passion of mine, where I delight in creating meals that nourish both body and soul, sharing warmth and hospitality with loved ones. In every aspect of my life, whether writing, teaching, or cooking, I am guided by a commitment to kindness, integrity, and the pursuit of a more just and compassionate world.
LiFT: What are the activities you resort to when you face a writer’s block?
Mayank Tomar: Living a life grounded in simplicity and connection with others is paramount to my values. I embrace the rhythm of everyday life, traversing the city streets with the same stride as my fellow commuters, relying on public transport as a means of staying connected to the pulse of the community. This humble approach to living allows me to remain in constant contact with the diverse tapestry of humanity that surrounds me, fostering meaningful interactions and insights that often find their way into my writing.
By immersing myself in the ebb and flow of daily life, I am able to draw inspiration from the shared experiences and struggles of ordinary people. Whether engaging in heartfelt conversations with fellow passengers on the bus or simply observing the quiet moments of contemplation in a bustling café, I find richness and depth in the interactions that define our shared human experience. This genuine connection with others serves as a constant reminder of the inherent dignity and resilience of the human spirit, infusing my writing with authenticity and empathy.
LiFT: What if your story will be adopted as a movie? Whom would you want to work as a director or actors in it?
Mayank Tomar: If my novel were to be adapted into a movie, I would be honored to see it brought to life on the big screen. As for the directorial helm, I can envision no greater collaborators than Anurag Kashyap and Martin Scorsese. Their unique visionary styles and unflinching commitment to storytelling resonate deeply with the themes and nuances of my novel.
In terms of casting, while I am open to the creative vision of the director, I can imagine certain actors who could embody the complexity and depth of the characters. However, if given the opportunity, I would be thrilled to make a cameo appearance in the film, but only under the direction of Anurag Kashyap or Martin Scorsese, whose cinematic mastery I deeply admire and respect. Their guidance and insight would undoubtedly elevate the adaptation of my novel into a cinematic masterpiece that resonates with audiences around the world.
LiFT: Are you working on your next book? If yes, please tell us something about it.
Mayank Tomar: I am also currently engaged in the translation of “लहू बोते मानव” into English, aiming to make the powerful themes and messages of the novel accessible to a broader international audience. Through this translation, I seek to bridge cultural divides and foster cross-cultural understanding, while preserving the integrity and emotional resonance of the original text. It is my hope that the English translation will serve as a catalyst for dialogue and empathy, resonating with readers around the world and further amplifying the novel’s call for peace and reconciliation.
Yes, I am currently working on my next book, which delves into the urgent and pressing issue of environmental exploitation. In this book, I aim to shine a spotlight on the myriad ways in which our planet’s natural resources are being exploited and depleted at an alarming rate. Through a combination of rigorous research and compelling storytelling, I seek to raise awareness about the environmental challenges we face and inspire readers to take action to protect our planet for future generations.
LiFT: What are your suggestions to the budding writers/poets so that they could improve their writing skills?
Mayank Tomar: My suggestion to budding writers and poets is to stay deeply connected with the people and the world around them. Listen to their stories, observe their struggles, and empathize with their experiences. By immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of human emotion and interaction, you will find endless inspiration for your writing. Write from the heart, expressing what you feel and what resonates with you on a personal level. Authenticity is key; let your unique voice shine through in your writing. Additionally, read voraciously and widely across different genres and styles to expand your perspective and enrich your craft. Finally, practice regularly and be open to feedback and constructive criticism. Writing is a journey of continuous growth and learning, and with dedication, passion, and perseverance, your skills will naturally improve over time.
Click here to order Mayank Tomar’s Book – Lahoo Bote Maanav
