So, you’ve got a story burning inside you. Maybe it’s a whirlwind romance, a thrilling whodunnit, or a quiet tale of self-discovery. But the questions weigh you down: How do I actually write a book? And once I do—how do I get it published in India?
To answer all this (and more), we sat down with bestselling author Stuti Changle, whose journey from self-publishing to scoring traditional book deals with some of the biggest publishers in India is as inspiring as the stories she writes.
In a candid conversation with Bookscape — as part of the Bookcast podcast series — Stuti opened up about the realities of writing in India, why perseverance matters more than perfection, and her five must-follow tips for aspiring authors.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to write and publish a book in India.
Meet Stuti Changle
Stuti Changle is the author of bestselling novels like On the Open Road, You Only Live Once, and Where the Sun Never Sets. Known for her heartfelt writing, honest storytelling, and unique narrative voice, Stuti has become one of the most beloved young authors in India today.
But her journey wasn’t all sunshine and book signings.
“I Didn’t Even Get a Rejection Email”
When Stuti first tried to publish her debut novel, she didn’t even get a rejection—just silence. Frustrated but determined, she chose to self-publish her book.
“In India, no matter what you’re writing—romance, thriller, fantasy—you will still struggle to find that dream publisher,” she says. “There are so many of us who want to write and get published, but only a handful of publishers.”
So she did what any dreamer with grit would do—she published the book herself. But that was just the beginning.
“The hardest part isn’t finishing the book. It’s going out there, marketing it, and talking about it. I told myself—Stuti, if you won’t talk about your book, why would anyone else?”
Her strategy worked. After building a reader base and marketing her books independently, publishers came knocking.
How to Publish a Book in India: Stuti’s 5 Golden Tips for Aspiring Authors
So what does it really take to get published in India today? Here’s Stuti’s advice for every aspiring writer out there:
1. Be Original
“There’s nothing like a story that’s never been told before. But when your voice is original, it feels new—and that’s what makes it powerful.”
Don’t try to write the next Harry Potter or be another Chetan Bhagat. Write the story that only you can tell.
2. Write Every Day
“Don’t limit yourself by saying I’ll write one book a year. If ideas come, write them down. Build that muscle.”
Even if you’re not working on a manuscript, make it a habit—blogs, notes, voice memos, anything.
3. Brace Yourself: It’s More Than Just Writing
“Just because you wrote a good book doesn’t mean it’ll be a bestseller. Bestsellers are made by showing up every day.”
Being an author today means being your own marketer, promoter, and publicist, especially at the start.
4. Talk About Your Book (Everywhere)
“Don’t hesitate to talk about your book. Share it, pitch it, post about it—whatever it takes.”
Visibility is key. If you believe in your story, let the world know.
5. Persevere
“It might not happen in the first two years—it never happened for me. But if you keep at it, one day you’ll be at the right place at the right time.”
Publishing is a long-game. Keep writing. Keep dreaming. Keep showing up.
P.S: If you’re looking for a dose of real-world inspiration, don’t miss our full Bookscape Podcast with Stuti Changle to add link, where she dives deeper into her writing life, creative process, and why being a writer is all about being relentlessly hopeful.
Also read: Romance Meets Real Life in Stuti Changle’s Uplifting Indian Novels
