Nothing can stop you, when you are born to excel. Conversation with Bhushita Ahuja, Chota packet, Bada dhamaka (small packet, big explosion)

What was the motivation behind Samvedna and it’s working?

My brother, Bhavik and I have been playing chess since we were 5 and 7 years old respectively when our mother introduced us to the world of 64 squares. We promptly fell in love with it, engulfed ourselves in this game, soon started participating in tournaments, spending summer holidays on chess tours, forming our collection of trophies, chess became an intrinsic part of our lives. However, I had to choose academics over sports when I entered in 10th grade but decided to pursue chess as a hobby. Although, the passion ran deep in my veins and I was not ready to sit back which is when the idea of ‘Samvedna’ struck me, a feeling, a desire to give back to the game that had shaped my personality. I had a strong urge to empower the underprivileged through sports as a part of Samvedna’s endeavours. So far, Samvedna has been able to teach 500+ well deserving students across 7 States in India online during the pandemic.

You are already an author at just 16. How did it start?

To be honest, I have loved writing since a very young age. I used to write stories, poems and even diary entries expressing my experiences because I am an expressive individual and I feel words really help me communicate best and clear my mind. At the age of 16, I was very intrigued by the topic of clothing psychology, therefore decided to write a book on this topic because I thought this topic was worth sharing with the masses.

What would you say about your journey being an author?

Well, my journey as an author taught me several lessons. Firstly, to stay put and never give up. Writing a book is a long process and requires a strong sense of commitment and dedication. This process might be tiring, but the end-result is worth all the hard-work and the sense of satisfaction that is felt holding the finished book in your hands is magical.

You are a writer of the book ‘Open your wardrobe for answers’. Why did you choose only this as the title of your book?

‘Open Your Wardrobe for Answers’ is about clothing psychology and it basically talks about how one’s dressing style is indicative of their personality and therefore this title.

What is your book ‘Open your wardrobe for answers’ all about?

Covering the untapped subject of clothing psychology, this short and sweet self help book is a crash course on all things related to fashion and from the 5 types of personality to colour psychology. This book also addresses questions such as ‘why we dress to impress’ and ‘how to dress for success.’ It talks about the difference between fashion and style. It helps readers ruminate on their clothing choices.

Any upcoming books you are working on now? If yes, would you like to tell your followers about it?

Yes, I am working on my book ‘A guide to our pride’ which will be based on facets of our culture that we as Indians should be proud of. This book is specially targeted at teens. Besides, I’ve taken inspiration from Vedic Literature (a subject I am deeply passionate about) to interpret their messages in today’s real world context. This book, I hope, shall help better form our individual cultural identities and propel us towards taking pride in our rich heritage.

What would be your suggestions or tips to the novice authors?

I would say pick a topic that you are exceptionally interested to research and write about because that will keep you motivated. Besides, it is very important to plan your book before you begin to write because that’s exactly how entrepreneurs formulate business plans to give their businesses a sense of purpose and direction. Additionally, quality market research needs to be conducted to establish a niche for your book and differentiating factors. Lastly, take suggestions from trusted ones to seek improvement on your drafts and don’t be afraid to keep editing until you are satisfied.

Would you like to give your opinion on the sports sector in India?

I feel sports has innumerable benefits overall to society and as a country we must inculcate a healthy sporting culture because sports polish peoples’ personalities. I feel, in India there’s a huge craze for sports but due to India’s large population, a lot of talented individuals miss out on opportunities and don’t get adequate chances. There’s a huge potential in those coming from humble backgrounds and if they’re given the right kind of resources, they’ll definitely make the country proud. Secondly, I also feel there is a huge prevailing gender gap when it comes to sports and females need to be encouraged to participate, this is imperative.