INTERVIEW Prashanth Srivatsa, Author: The Spice Gate

In this insightful interview, Prashanth dives deep into the world of The Spice Gate, a richly woven narrative blending the complexity of subjugation, rebellion, and hope.

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He shares the inspiration behind Amir, a protagonist torn between privilege and pain, and offers a glimpse into the creative process of crafting the intricate kingdoms and spice gates that define his world. From the influence of the Silk Roads to the unexpected challenges of writing during a pandemic, Prashanth reflects on how his personal experiences and research have shaped the novel's exploration of caste, hierarchy, and resilience. Get ready to journey through an epic tale that challenges and captivates in equal measure.

In “The Spice Gate,” Amir’s journey is both personal and epic. What inspired you to create a protagonist with such a unique ability and background?

Amir’s journey is his need. It is driven by desperation, status and the sheer will for a better life for him and his family. Amir is constantly torn between the dichotomy of life as a Spice Carrier: the ability to traverse the eight kingdoms versus the pain, suffering and social ostracization as a result of it. I wanted a character who could navigate this duality and who could challenge the lure of stability.

The concept of the Spice Gates and the eight kingdoms is fascinating. Can you share more about the world-building process and how you developed the idea of spices as a central element?

It’s honestly just something that came to me one fine day. If I told you I came up with the idea when I was adding spices while cooking lunch, I’d be lying. It was an idea, and when it came to me, it sounded pretty cool in my head, and I decided to see how I could explore that further. I was always fascinated with the Silk Roads and somehow, the two thoughts merged to give birth to this fantastic world. I wanted a world where the vast distances of the Silk Roads were eliminated by means of the spice gates, and yet, the system was rigged in favor of some at the expense of others.