The trend of self-publishing in India has witnessed remarkable growth over the past few years, fueled by the democratization of content creation and distribution through digital platforms. In 2023 alone, self-published books accounted for nearly 40% of the total e-book sales in India, showcasing a significant shift in consumer preferences towards diverse and independent narratives. Looking ahead, the future of self-publishing in India appears promising, driven by the rise of digital literacy and a growing reading culture. Indian authors are increasingly exploring genres that reflect their unique experiences and cultural backgrounds, from regional literature to niche non-fiction.
In a recent interview, Vikram Singh Thakur, the founder of Astitva Prakashan, shared insights into the evolution and impact of self-publishing in India. With a master’s degree in computer science, Vikram established Astitva Prakashan over six years ago, driven by a vision to empower aspiring authors to publish their works on a global scale. Since its inception, Astitva Prakashan has become one of the most trusted self-publishing companies in India, successfully launching over 5,000 titles across diverse genres. Vikram emphasized the importance of providing authors with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the publishing landscape, stating, “Our mission is to transform dreams into reality, ensuring every author has a platform to share their voice.”
The rise of Astitva Prakashan has not only facilitated the publication of numerous titles but has also contributed to a burgeoning community of writers who have achieved bestseller status in recent years. Vikram noted that the company’s focus on quality, author support, and effective marketing strategies has played a crucial role in this success. “We believe in nurturing talent and offering personalized guidance throughout the publishing process,” he explained. As self-publishing continues to gain traction in India, Vikram envisions a future where more voices, especially from diverse backgrounds, can be heard. He remains committed to enhancing the self-publishing ecosystem, ensuring that Astitva Prakashan stays at the forefront of this literary revolution.
Interview with Vikram Singh Thakur (Founder and CEO, Astitva Prakashan)
The Literature Times: What inspired you to start Astitva Prakashan, and how has your background in computer science shaped your approach to self-publishing?
Vikram Singh Thakur: I was inspired by the desire to make publishing accessible to everyone. My background in computer science helped me leverage technology to create a seamless platform for authors, making the publishing process more efficient and user-friendly.
The Literature Times: How has the self-publishing landscape in India evolved in recent years, and what trends do you see emerging?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Self-publishing in India has grown significantly, with more authors embracing digital platforms. Trends include a rise in niche genres and increased interest in regional literature, reflecting diverse voices and stories.
The Literature Times: What common challenges do first-time authors face when publishing, and how does Astitva Prakashan assist them?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Many authors struggle with understanding the publishing process and effective marketing. At Astitva Prakashan, we provide guidance throughout the journey, offering resources and support to help them succeed.
The Literature Times: Which genres are currently the most popular among self-published authors in India, and why do you think that is?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Romance, thrillers, and self-help are leading genres. These resonate well with readers, and the accessibility of self-publishing allows authors to explore themes that connect with their audience.
The Literature Times: How do you help authors identify unique stories or gaps in the market that they can fill?
Vikram Singh Thakur: We encourage authors to reflect on their experiences and interests. By analyzing market trends and reader feedback, we help them pinpoint untold stories that can stand out in a crowded marketplace.
The Literature Times: How is technology shaping the future of self-publishing, and what tools do you see as essential?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Technology is vital for streamlining publishing and marketing. Tools like data analytics for reader insights and digital marketing platforms will be crucial for authors to effectively reach their audience.
The Literature Times: What benefits does self-publishing offer first-time authors compared to traditional publishing?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Self-publishing provides greater creative control, faster time to market, and higher royalty rates. It allows authors to retain ownership of their work and directly engage with their readers.
The Literature Times: What financial opportunities exist for self-published authors, and how can they maximize their earnings?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Self-published authors can earn through direct sales, e-books, and audiobooks. To maximize earnings, they should focus on building an author brand, engaging with their audience, and utilizing effective marketing strategies.
The Literature Times: Can you outline the process of self-publishing with Astitva Prakashan and the support you provide?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Authors start by submitting their manuscript, followed by editing and design. We then guide them through the publishing process and provide marketing support, ensuring they are well-equipped to launch their book.
The Literature Times: How do you see diversity among self-published authors impacting the literary landscape in India?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Diversity enriches the literary landscape by bringing in varied perspectives. At Astitva Prakashan, we actively promote underrepresented voices, helping to broaden the narrative spectrum in Indian literature.
The Literature Times: What marketing strategies do you recommend to self-published authors for promoting their books?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Authors should utilize social media, engage in content marketing, and consider collaborations with influencers. Building an email list for direct communication with readers is also crucial for successful outreach.
The Literature Times: What skills should aspiring authors develop before starting their publishing journey?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Authors should focus on improving their writing, understanding their audience, and learning about the publishing process. Workshops and mentorship programs can provide valuable insights and skills.
The Literature Times: What innovations do you plan to introduce at Astitva Prakashan to further support authors?
Vikram Singh Thakur: We plan to enhance our marketing services and introduce more resources for authors, including workshops, audiobooks and online courses that focus on writing, publishing, and digital marketing.
The Literature Times: What final message would you like to share with aspiring authors who are hesitant about self-publishing?
Vikram Singh Thakur: Don’t be afraid to take the leap! Self-publishing empowers you to share your story on your terms. Trust in your voice, and remember that every great author started with a single word.
The rise of self-publishing in India, exemplified by companies like Astitva Prakashan, is reshaping the literary landscape and providing aspiring authors with unprecedented opportunities. Vikram Singh Thakur’s (www.speaktovikram.com) vision of empowering writers resonates deeply in an environment that increasingly values diverse voices and unique narratives. As technology continues to evolve and the self-publishing ecosystem matures, the future looks bright for authors willing to embrace this dynamic path. With access to resources, guidance, and supportive communities, more writers can transform their stories into published works, enriching the cultural tapestry of Indian literature and inspiring future generations.
