‘Tech has made publishing both easier and challenging for author’

In recent years, the publishing industry in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, fueled by technological advancements, shifting consumer tastes, and a burgeoning appetite for diverse and inclusive content. Today, authors have a plethora of options at their fingertips, from self-publishing platforms to a growing appetite for regional language literature. But with this newfound freedom comes a new set of challenges. In an exclusive conversation with Bizz Buzz, Prachi Gupta, a renowned bestselling author and founder, Galleon Publishing, discusses the evolving landscape of Indian publishing, the rise of self-publishing, and the challenges faced by authors in the digital era.

Do you think it's easier or harder for authors to publish nowadays?

In recent years, the publishing industry in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, fueled by technological advancements, shifting consumer tastes, and a burgeoning appetite for diverse and inclusive content. This evolution has seen a shift from traditional print publishing to the embrace of digital platforms, most notably the Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). With the advent of KDP by Amazon, the process of publishing e-books has been streamlined, enabling authors to effortlessly reach millions of readers from the comfort of their homes, free of cost. This accessibility and user-friendly approach have not only made e-book publishing more widespread but have also solidified its position as an enduring global market.

Furthermore, the rise of self-publishing, which was not so popular when I started, has revolutionized the industry, empowering authors to circumvent traditional publishing houses and directly bring their work to the market. This democratization has paved the way for a plethora of diverse voices and niche genres that may have previously been overlooked by mainstream publishers. Consequently, the Indian literary landscape has experienced a surge in independent authors and small presses, enriching the industry with a more diverse and inclusive array of literary offerings. This paradigm shift has not only broadened the horizons for authors but has also provided readers with an enriched and varied literary experience.

Is there still a demand for books in regional languages?

While English-language publishing has traditionally dominated the market, there is a growing appetite for literature in regional languages. Publishers are actively seeking out and promoting works in languages like Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, and Marathi, catering to the diverse linguistic and cultural heritage of the country. Moreover, there is a newfound emphasis on inclusive and representative storytelling, as readers crave narratives that reflect a range of perspectives, experiences, and identities. Another significant development in the industry is the rise of audio books as a popular alternative to traditional reading. With the modern lifestyle's focus on multitasking and convenience, audio books have become a favored way for readers to consume content while on the move.

What are challenges of the publishing industry?

In the modern era, publishing has become both easier and more challenging for authors. On one hand, the rise of self-publishing platforms and digital distribution has made it more accessible for authors to get their work out into the world without the need for traditional publishing houses. On the other hand, the sheer volume of content being produced and the challenges of standing out in a saturated market can make it difficult for authors to gain visibility and recognition.

How do you feel about book promotion and marketing?

Effective promotion can make the difference between a book's success and obscurity. While some authors prefer to take an active role in marketing their work, others may choose to delegate these responsibilities to third-party professionals or their publishing partners. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often depends on an author's individual strengths, resources, and personal preferences.

Is social media changing book promotion strategies?

In today's digital world, it's nearly impossible to overlook the importance of utilizing social media for book promotion. With consumers constantly engaged with their smartphones, authors must seize the opportunity to promote their work and establish genuine connections with their audience. Gone are the days when authors would remain secluded, as the competitive landscape demands active marketing. Visibility is the key to sales success. Social media has emerged as a vital tool for reaching and engaging with the target audience, compelling authors to adapt their strategies to the ever-evolving nature of these platforms. Undeniably, social media has revolutionized book promotion strategies, with authors and publishers employing a variety of tactics to effectively promote their books.

What inspired you to pursue a career in writing?

My path as a writer unfolded unexpectedly. Amidst the rigorous preparations for my civil services exams, I discovered a refuge in writing during my moments of respite. My brother, Sanchit, stumbled upon a 15-page story I had penned, titled "Accidentally Cupid," and encouraged me to develop it further. With his insightful contributions to the storyline, what began as a short story blossomed into a full-length novel, marking the beginning of my career as an author.

What were the challenges you faced when starting out as an author?

As novice writers without any prior background in the field, we encountered a myriad of challenges. Despite encountering rejection from prominent publishing houses, our resolve to share our distinctive tale with the world remained unyielding. Eventually, we made the unconventional choice to self-publish, a term that wasn't widely embraced nearly eight years ago. To our astonishment, our book garnered unexpected success. This paved the way for offers from traditional publishers, and after careful consideration, we decided to collaborate with Fingerprint Publishing. Our journey as the youngest self-published best-selling sibling duo in India in 2016 marked the start of our literary endeavors.

Could you share some details about your publishing startup as well?

Having gained invaluable experience in the publishing industry, we discovered a disheartening truth: many authors are being taken advantage of by unscrupulous publishers. It is truly painful to witness others profiting from your hard work and creativity. Moreover, mid-level publishers in India often fail to provide authors with the international exposure they deserve. This realization hit home when my own book became the first-ever finalist from India in the prestigious Author Elite Awards in the USA. It became clear that the immense talent of Indian writers was not reaching the global stage.

Motivated by these experiences, we founded Galleon Publishing, a startup committed to empowering emerging writers. Under our banner, we've successfully launched numerous titles, bridging the gap between aspiring authors and international readership. Galleon offers a budget-friendly and expedient publishing solution, ensuring that novice writers across India can distribute their books in print and digital formats to over 150 countries. Our mission is to provide an unforgettable experience for authors, propelling their literary dreams to new horizons.

Could you please provide information about other projects you are currently working on?

I've scripted a highly acclaimed short film, receiving 13 National Awards and currently working on a project with Hotstar. Alongside my creative pursuits, I'm passionate about delivering motivational speeches and counseling sessions. I've supported students in schools and colleges across India, addressing stress and mental health challenges. Two months ago, I introduced ENN360, an innovative education company dedicated to empowering today's youth. Through courses and success stories, we aim to inspire and guide the next generation.