An Afternoon with Dr. Supriya Bansal

Tuesday, March 10, 2026, I had the opportunity to meet Dr Supriya Bansal, author of Mysteries, Mountains, and Mythology, at The English Book Depot. It was a thoughtful and engaging interaction, during which I had the chance to learn more about her book and the ideas that inspired it. Dr Bansal spoke about the interesting concept behind the title of her book. She highlighted how the letter M connects the three central themes of her work - Mystery, Mountains, and Mythology. According to her, each of these elements carries a kind of magic. Mountains often hold hidden stories, mystery keeps readers curious, and mythology connects us with the deeper cultural roots of a place.

When asked about bringing together mystery, mountains, and mythology, she explained that mountains are full of untold stories waiting to be discovered. Being in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, a place deeply connected with mythology, naturally inspires narratives rooted in legends, culture, and the landscapes around us.

I also asked her about the idea that a story truly lives only when it is told. Dr Bansal shared that storytelling plays an important role in keeping cultural traditions alive. She spoke about how stories and folklore need to be passed forward so that younger generations remain connected to their heritage and traditions.

Another unique element of her book is the way it brings food and storytelling together. When asked what inspired this combination, she explained that food creates a strong sensory connection within stories. When readers imagine what the characters are eating, they can almost feel the taste, smell, and atmosphere of the place. This adds depth to the narrative and helps readers experience the place’s taste and the story’s vibrance.

The interaction was thoughtful and inspiring, offering a glimpse into how stories can connect nature, culture, and everyday experiences. The meet-and-greet at EBD was a memorable opportunity to hear directly from an author who beautifully blends imagination with the landscapes and traditions around us.

Sneha