Sharjah| Reflecting on his bestselling novel, Ram C/O Anandi which sold over 300,000 copies, Akhil revealed that he had discarded the initial draft after completing 300 pages. Upon revisiting and rewriting the novel, he introduced significant improvements that contributed to its success.At the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, during the session, ‘Stories beyond the pages-An evening with Akhil P Dharmajan’, he shared insights into his creative journey and experiences.

Akhil noted that after finishing the first draft of the novel,he revisited it again after writing the script for the movie, ‘ 2018’. This process made him realize he could improve the narrative, leading to the complete rewriting of the novel.

When asked about the film adaptation of ‘Ram C/O Anandi’ Akhil expressed his preference for actors Pranav Mohanlal and Sai Pallavi to play the lead roles, though he acknowledged that casting decisions would ultimately rest with the director. He also mentioned that preliminary work for the movie has commenced.

Addressing personal challenges, Akhil shared that he has faced criticism, body shaming, and mockery regarding his voice and attire. Initially disheartened, he has since learned to rise above the negativity. He recounted how, during his early aspirations to become a writer, people ridiculed him, but now they proudly introduce themselves as his friends and seek photographs with him—a “sweet revenge,” he said.

New Novel and Depression

Akhil also touched upon his struggles with depression following allegations of similarities between his upcoming novel and a French web series. Therapy helped him overcome this setback and regain his focus on writing. The novel, which he has now completed, will be published in January next year, featuring a new dimension and perspective.

Ram,Anandi,Malli

Discussing ‘Ram C/O Anandi’,Akhil highlighted Malli as his favorite character, stating that Malayalees have a strong empathy for transgender individuals. While he was writing the novel,he felt that Malli would garner more love and recognition than the lead character,Anandi.Malli is a character inspired from his real life.He emphasized that all the women characters in the novel possess individuality and depth. While he holds the novel close to his heart, he acknowledged that some cherished scenes might need to be omitted in the film adaptation. For this reason, he has chosen not to be involved in writing the screenplay but he also mentioned that he will actively participate in discussions after the script is drafted.

Writing from Seventh Grade

Reflecting on his beginnings as a writer, Akhil shared that his passion for storytelling started in the seventh grade. His imaginative nature led him to envision rain puddles as islands, filling them with sand and sending ants across them in paper boats—an inspiration for his novel, ‘ Mercury Island’.His first reader and critic was Abhijith, his tution classmate and neighbour.Abhijith remains a trusted proofreader for his works to this day.

Akhil expressed deep gratitude to his readers, acknowledging their support as instrumental in overcoming challenges with publishers. He credited social media, particularly Facebook, for helping him connect with his audience. He also appreciated his friends, such as Harin, who designed the book cover without charge, and Vishnu, who assisted with coloring.He also mentioned that he didn’t have to spend even a single penny for the publicity works of the book.

During the session, artist Ranjith presented a painting of Akhil inspired by Ram C/O Anandi’s colour theme which served as the picture’s backdrop. RJ Vysakh moderated the discussion. After the session,Akhil also signed books for fans, posed for photos, and engaged with the audience.