ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE JAN V2 2025 VOLUME VIII, ISSUE LX | COVER STORY
Article Published on: 17TH FEB 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com
Born in Madurai, India, and raised across cities like Odisha, Mangalore, Shillong, and Chennai, her early life was a tapestry of diverse cultures and experiences. With a background in Physics from Seethalakshmi Ramasami College, Trichy, she embarked on a writing journey in 1995, transforming observations of migration, history, and human psychology into poignant literary works. Her voice resonates on global stages, with notable talks at APWT 2018 in Gold Coast, the ASEAN-India Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Writers Festival, and the Singapore Writers Festival. From exploring Gender in Fiction to discussing AI in Teaching English at an international conference in Chennai (2024), her contributions have been far-reaching. Her literary works — spanning short stories, novellas, and novels — continue to captivate readers, celebrating cultural depth and human connection. Her work is a timeless exploration of culture, identity, and imagination, leaving readers enthralled across borders.
Jayanthi Sankar A Literary Voyage Through Time & Identity
De Mode interviewed the Singaporean author Jayanthi Sankar to mark the milestone completion of 30 years of her writing pursuits. Her earnestness in building writing communities is evidenced by her efforts to facilitate creative writing workshops and her one-to-one mentorship programs have motivated dozens of aspirants to pursue writing. She has beta read several manuscripts to help add value through her constructive inputs. She has called Singapore home since 1990. Her extensive career spans writing, editing, curating, and promoting literature across diverse cultures.
Her fourth book, When Will You Die?, is a gripping novella exploring the intricacies of the human psyche, captivating readers worldwide. Her third book, Tabula Rasa, received international acclaim, earning the “Distinguished Favourite” award in Historical Fiction at the 2022 NYC Big Book Awards and an honourable mention at the San Francisco Book Fest. Similarly, her earlier work Misplaced Heads was shortlisted for the Eyelands Book Awards 2020 in Greece, cementing its reputation as an exceptional piece of postmodern historical fiction.
Sankar’s short story Dangling Gandhi brought her international recognition, winning the 2020 International Book Award for Fiction by the American Book Fest and the prestigious Literary Titan Award. Her accolades include the Eminence & Glory Awards 2024 for Best Female Fiction Writer, the Mighty Pen Award 2023, the CLS Global Award, and the Tagore Ratna Award. She has also been featured among the “Top 50 Most Influential Authors 2021” by Delhiwire, further establishing her literary prominence.
In 2023, Sankar curated and edited two anthologies, Dancing Gold Flecks and An Iron Fist in a Velvet Glove. The former features 27 unpublished stories by 18 writers of Indian origin, while the latter comprises 32 international short stories from contributors across the USA, Singapore, India, the Philippines, and Myanmar. Her dedication to fostering literary communities is further exemplified by her co-hosting of the podcast L.O.L. – Love of Literature, which provides a platform for authors, editors, and aspiring writers.
Besides her literary pursuits, Sankar is a watercolour hobbyist with over two decades of freelancing experience and a journalistic background. Currently, she works as a full-time interpreter in English, Hindi, and Tamil with the Ministry of Manpower. Sankar’s multifaceted career reflects her passion for storytelling and her commitment to enriching the literary world.
BOOK REVIEWS
Right from the very beginning, from the title itself the book had me. What an intriguing title! it’s a short novella with small chapters which makes it a day or two to read. It was my first book of the year and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this piece of fiction penned by Jayanthi as the narration style is fresh and I also like the style of storytelling specially the format.
There are many other quotes and sub plots that I loved in the story that I am itching to tell you all but I shouldn’t land up giving you all spoilers. I rather have you’ll discover it but never the less let me tell you a little about the story Susan is a kid from Goa and she has found a pen pal from Singapore Suiyi who is of the same age and they share their emotion through their letters. (It took me back in time when I had a pen pal from Nagpur and I enjoying writing my heart out to her)
Books by author Jayanthi Sankar
DANGLING GANDHI AND OTHER SHORT STORIES
The traditional ways of storytelling often miss the subtle, deep insight of humans and culture. Jayanthi Sankar’s ‘Dangling Gandhi,’ a collection of short stories, truly Asian, breaks the conventional trends of short story writing not just in the formats but also in the themes chosen. The characters and their culture and the never-ending questions of human values are woven artistically in a wonderful narration. Through interesting experiments of connecting characters and lives, the stories carry unique flavours. Be it the backdrop of Singapore or a hill station in India the reader traverses from contemporary life into the histories, cultural and political divides between races. Opening new windows to the life and culture of various ethnicities of Asia, the stories reach beyond contemporary life to gently raise questions for the reader to ponder. The author’s presence is totally absent in the stories themselves. The speciality of these stories is that they speak about merging the borders and beyond borders. She excels in capturing the cultural diversities of different eras and generations, finely weaving facts through them. Whenever this strength of hers that is unique compared to any contemporary writer manifests, it brings about a very wonderful reading. Not a word is wasted.
MISPLACED HEADS
The shift in the time frames, from past to present are seamlessly flowing with respective characters. The novelist has done dense research in every detail of the repertoire, the training of the devadasis, and their style. I was awestruck. It was mind-blowing, to think about how she could even decipher various adavus and various mudras used by us, dancers. -Kalaimamani Dr. Radhika Shurajit, Dancer, Teacher, Choreographer, Chennai This work is a powerful testament to the timeless nature of human emotions and art. It contrasts the perspectives of a devadasi from the past with modern-day women, gracefully highlighting ironies and normalizing emotions often considered taboo. - Prathik Sudha Murali, Historian, Teacher, Public Speaker, Chennai. In this post-modern historical fiction with feminist metaphors, Poorna’s view of her man mirrors a modern interpretation of the temples of a woman married to God. - Raaghav Sankar, a banking professional in Singapore. Blending fragments from different eras, cultures, and characters, this novel offers a fresh perspective on the dignity of temple dancer communities, challenging misconceptions about the devadasi tradition. - Usha Nagasamy,Lecturer, London.
TABULA RASA
Tabula Rasa captures the spirit of Singapore through the lives of its protagonists, Li Wei and Muthu. Li Wei, a self-employed local, faces challenges balancing his work with complex relationships, especially with women. In contrast, Muthu, a migrant worker new to Singapore, seems to handle relationships with ease. Their contrasting approaches to life raise thought-provoking questions: how do their personalities differ, and what hidden similarities might they share? Li Wei’s relationships with his friends, Adnan and Suresh, add depth to the story. Despite their frequent clashes, the two remain close to him, showcasing the nuances of friendship amidst differences. While focusing on the lives of its male characters, the novel also provides a rich depiction of colonial Singapore, highlighting the city-state’s diversity and transformation. Spanning two centuries, this postmodern historical novel seamlessly blends past and present. It offers a glimpse into 14th and 15th-century Singapore while exploring the modern era, creating a layered narrative that intertwines personal journeys with Singapore’s historical evolution.
WHEN WILL YOU DIE
The story of Susan is a poignant tale of resilience and the complexities of human relationships. At twelve, Susan from Goa, India, unexpectedly becomes a caregiver when her baby brother Joseph is born. This early responsibility shapes her life, marking the beginning of a journey filled with emotional and psychological challenges. Years later, Susan marries Suiyi, a Singaporean Chinese man she has known since childhood, and moves to a new country. Adjusting to an unfamiliar culture, she works to build a stable life while facing challenges in her marriage. Despite differences in how they approach life, Susan and Suiyi's bond evolves, demonstrating their enduring connection through trials. Meanwhile, Joseph takes a darker path, refusing education for reasons he cannot articulate. His poor choices and growing cynicism create tension in the story as he questions life’s meaning. When Will You Die? delves into the inner struggles of Susan, Suiyi, and Joseph, exploring themes of family, identity, and human connections through a postmodern lens, making it a deeply thought-provoking narrative.
Jayanthi Sankar’s unique literary style lies in her ability to weave intricate narratives that delve deeply into human psychology and cultural dynamics. Her stories explore the complexities of relationships, identity, & personal struggles, resonating across diverse audiences. As a postmodern writer, she skillfully combines historical contexts with contemporary themes, creating thought-provoking works like Tabula Rasa & Misplaced Heads. Her exceptional storytelling is enriched by her multicultural perspective, rooted in her Indian heritage and decades-long life in Singapore. Beyond her writing, Sankar’s dedication to nurturing literary communities sets her apart. Through anthologies such as Dancing Gold Flecks and An Iron Fist in a Velvet Glove, and the podcast L.O.L – Love of Literature, she amplifies diverse voices and provides platforms for emerging writers. Her versatility extends to visual arts, journalism, and multilingual interpretation, reflecting her creative and intellectual breadth. Jayanthi Sankar stands out as a literary luminary who bridges cultures & disciplines with sensitivity, innovation, and an enduring passion for compelling storytelling.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW OF AUTHOR JAYANTHI SANKAR WITH DE MODE
Q: In Dangling Gandhi, you delve into complex themes of identity and cultural shifts. How do you approach the balance between historical accuracy and creative freedom when writing about such significant topics?
A. Since my novels had a historical backdrop with a contemporary thread woven through, they required a higher level of that balance. My short stories, however, drew out a thin strand of history, only to give readers a genuine feel. They weren't placed in any specific historical episode but over half of these twelve stories have only a hint of history in them. For example, it would not have been possible for the second story, ‘Punkah Wallah,’ to happen in our times. It naturally required colonial times and migration for it to manifest in me three decades later. A single sentence of verbal remark stuck with me since I was a teenager.
Q: How do you manage the research process for your historical fiction novels, and how do you determine which historical details are essential to the narrative?
A. I research read a lot more than I might use, and when I write, I consider whether a certain fact improved the plot or helped in shaping my characters.
Q: Many of your books feature multifaceted characters and intricate historical settings. What is your process for creating such deep, believable characters, especially within a historical context?
A. I become the protagonist and interact with my other characters. In other instances, I let the character debate, argue, and fight with me in order to give them the necessary authenticity. While value is added by constant crafting, situating my work in a specific era calls for more reading and investigation.
Q: Tabula Rasa was recognised as a 'Distinguished Favourite' at the 2022 NYC Big Book Awards and earned an ‘honourable mention’ at the San Francisco Book Fest Awards. What do these accolades mean to you as an author, and how do they shape your future work?
A. They naturally endorse my beliefs. With jurors from throughout the globe finding my works impressive is heartening because the panels had no idea of my background. They also stimulate my creative vein and encourage me to continue experimenting and exploring. Since we live in an inherently brand-driven world, they draw more readers to my writings. Adding value to my profile, they attract enthusiasts and aspirants to my mentorship and workshops.
Q: You’ve been a part of several international literary panels. How have your experiences in these discussions influenced your writing, and what insights have you gained from interacting with global literary communities?
A. Such meets widen the scope of my ongoing efforts to comprehend humanity better and introduce me to others’ perspectives, which again need not reflect in my writing. And they don’t. When I participated in APWT at East Coast, Australia, a few years ago, I had the opportunity to meet two female writers who were yet to be published. We got a glimpse into the life and struggles of women in the business from a former ex-strip dancer, the young woman. It was really unsettling. She pursued scholarly research in order to produce a book. The other, in her seventies, had no intention of writing, yet she’d started writing about her life of separation as a young child from her family under the Japanese occupation. Having never met any of her family, she’d researched to find her roots and in the process, decided to write a book. I got to meet two huge novels in human forms. It doesn't matter if we are not in touch anymore.
Q: Your novels, such as Tabula Rasa and Misplaced Heads, have gained international recognition for their unique narratives and postmodern approach. What inspired you to explore historical fiction with such experimental styles?
A. My primary goal is to build a world and populate it with my characters and to live their lives, which are never mine to live in the real realm. The originality develops organically. Just as my protagonists Li Wei in Tabula Rasa, Poorna in Misplaced Heads, and Susan in When Will You Die? did with different storytelling techniques, my characters walk me throughout. For me, my process becomes unforgettable. And, the background largely determines my style for my historical threads.
Q: Your works like When Will You Die? often push boundaries and challenge traditional narrative structures. How do you decide which form or structure best suits the story you're telling?
A. My characters continuously collaborate with me. And we unanimously select the most suitable and interesting tools as we progress. Observing them evolve, I get to feel better my resonance with humanity at large.
Q: Postmodern historical fiction, as seen in Misplaced Heads, can be challenging for readers but equally rewarding. What advice would you give readers approaching your work for the first time?
A. One of the most remarkable things about my writing, according to my readers, is the absence of the author and her voice. As I advance my narrative, I adapt to the thoughts and behaviours of my characters as I am keenly interested in living them. I carefully avoid imposing any of my nature or thoughts on them. By living them, I gain a a little more understanding of human psychology.
Q: Your collection Dangling Gandhi won the American International Book Award in fiction: short story. How do short stories differ from novels for you, both in terms of creative process and reader engagement?
A. Sadly, the wrong notion that a shortened novel qualifies as a short tale still exists. Having said that, a short story's canvas is smaller, so crafting one is more difficult. A short story should, ideally, have the fewest characters, taking place over an hour to a day from start to finish. Nowadays, reading is often confused with reading news articles, advertisements, social media posts, and business collateral. Short stories are suitable for readers who genuinely wish to grow. They can naturally transition to serious novels with their continued regular reading.
Q: Experimentation seems to be the hallmark of your works. What are some new narrative techniques or themes you're interested in exploring in your future writing projects?
A. Only when I begin writing will the theme and characters contextually provide the creative techniques. In terms of subjects, I wish to write stories based on the challenges faced by the migrant workers I encounter on a daily basis at work. Soon.
Q: As an author who loves reading fiction, can you share some works or authors who have had a lasting impact on your writing style or storytelling approach?
A. ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ touched me deeply. Enraged by ‘The Book of Lost Names.’ Thrilled by ‘Kafka on the Shore,’ ‘The Glass Palace,’ ‘The Vegetarian,’ and ‘Empire.’ Devastated by ‘The Kite Runner’ and ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns.’ Luckily, though, none of what I read has had any effect on the writer in me.
Q: With your continued success and recognition, what message do you hope your readers take away from your work, especially in terms of the historical and cultural themes you explore?
A. Regardless of time, place, continent, country, or ethnicity, human emotions are distinctly universal, and this is one of my deepest beliefs, which my readers can also reconnect with when they read my fiction.
CONNECT & FOLLOW
OFFICIAL WEBSITE - www.jayanthisankar.com
INSTAGRAM - jeyanthisankar28