Passion Speaks for This Unstoppable Writer

In a world where many consider their 80s as a time to retire from passions, Parsa Venkata Ramachandra Rao stands as a beacon, debunking the notion. Formerly the Chief Operations Manager at Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, Rao now resides in Hyderabad, where his dedication to writing remains unwavering. Writing, for him, is an avenue to articulate emotions and share experiences.

His writing journey began with a blog, parsakashyapreport.blogspot.com, initiated in 2008 and sustained until 2018. Transitioning from blogging, Rao ventured into novel writing, marking his foray into becoming an author. In an email exchange with Team Lampshade Writers, he graciously shared insights into his journey as the creator of two remarkable novels.

Rao defies stereotypes of an octogenarian 'retiring' from passions or struggling with technology. As an author, he adeptly typed both his novels on an iPad using just one hand until completion. What might seem an insurmountable task to many was, for him, a form of devotion. Describing his process, Rao expressed, "I never encountered challenges while writing my novels. It was an uninterrupted flow; once it began, there was no stopping. I typically complete my books within six months." His dedication serves as an inspiration for writers seeking to pour their souls onto paper.

    

This commitment bore fruit in the form of two novels. His debut, 'Que Sera Sera, Whatever Will Be Will Be,' published by Notion Press, Chennai in 2018 under his pen name Kashyapa, melds fiction with his experiences in the public sector. Following this success, his second novel, 'YOU, Me and We Both,' published by Pegasus Publishers, Cambridge, UK in September 2023, weaves a romantic narrative about two young individuals under his pen name Parsa Elder. Both his novels are available on Amazon.

Being an author comes naturally to Rao; he experiences no hindrance in the 'spontaneous flow of powerful feelings.' He eschews a structured writing routine or plotted storylines, viewing writing as a natural creative process shaped into words. Beyond writing, Rao finds solace in gardening, bird watching, and following political affairs—pastimes befitting a writer of his stature.

Whether a novice or seasoned writer, Parsa Rao serves as an inspiring figure. Signing off with advice for budding writers, he suggests, "Write simple, concise sentences. The TIME magazine suggests a sentence should average around ten words, give or take two, to avoid 'fogginess' for readers. Write sincerely; avoid contrived situations, and, most importantly, develop your unique style—do not emulate others."

Rao blazes a trail of passion and unconventional thinking, unafraid to be himself—a true trailblazer carving his path."

  

- words by Team Lampshade Writers