Interview with Jasveer Singh Dangi
Author of The Hunter Genesis - Whatever it is, wherever it is, he will find it
Jasveer Singh Dangi embodies a diverse tapestry of talents—author, podcast host, behavioral trainer, and esteemed health and safety professional hailing from Canada. What began as an unforeseen journey into writing in 2018 with his poignant childhood memoir, Version One and a Half (Version 1 ½), swiftly burgeoned into a prolific career marked by nine published books and two collaborative works.
He recently started his journey in the world of cinema as a Producer of a short film titled ‘Yes Sir’. The film, themed around caste bias, has been exceptionally well-received and featured in over twenty film festivals worldwide. It was third runner-up at the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards (DPIFF), 2024, in the Best Short Film category.
Despite his self-professed label as an accidental author, Jasveer’s literary prowess has garnered widespread acclaim, punctuated by a string of accolades and recognition.
- His magnum opus, The Hunter Genesis – Book 1, found its place among the coveted list of summer must-reads by esteemed platforms like ANI Asia, Jio News, and Zee5.
- He was featured in the list of Top 19 most unique writers of 2023 by INKZOID Foundation.
- He was recognized as the author of the Year in Fiction and Non-Fiction category by Ukiyoto Publishing for his book Ensemble – A collection of short stories and essays.
- Hailed as one of the 10 Indian Authors Redefining Modern Literature by Kathmandu Tribune in January, 2020.
- He was recognized by Ne8X with Sahitya Kosh Samman Award in Literature.
- In 2019, Literature Light recognized him as one of the top 100 debut authors for his debut book, Version One and a Half (Version 1 ½).
- He was named as the ‘Author of the Fest’ at the Writing Wizards Fest 2020 for his book, Double One Zero (110) - Out of the shadows. The Writing Wizards Fest is an initiative by The Twilight of Poem (www. twilightofpoem.in).
Beyond the realms of writing, he’s earned commendations for his contributions to health and safety training, further cementing his multifaceted expertise. In 2018, he was awarded by IISSM for his contributions towards the Health and Safety Training domain.
Jasveer loves the outdoors and is a big movie buff, which is quite evident given the use of quotes and songs from movies at strategic places in all his books. He is an avid observer of his surroundings and uses characters and instances from everyday situations for his stories. His works include:
- The Hunter Genesis - Whatever it is, wherever it is, he will find it (Book 1 of the Hunter series),
- The Essence of Ganga – The Story of Mandakini,
- Ensemble – A collection of short stories and essays,
- The Incredible Mr. Sweets – A coming-of-age story of an ex-con who finds his calling in life through music,
- Shahenshah – The story of Shrenik Shah, the cancer conqueror,
- The Metro-Maniac Chronicles - Through the eyes of an Obsessive-Compulsive Metro-Maniac,
- Double One Zero (110) – Out of the Shadows,
- Diary from Heaven - Confessions of an Eternal Junkie,
- Version One and a Half (Version 1 ½) - A glimpse of India in the ‘80s,
- Concealed Words (Co-Author), and
- Life – A culmination of stories (Co-Author).
He also shares his thoughts on www.storymirror.com, www. medium.com, www.merrative.com, #jasveersinghdangi (Instagram, Linkedin and Facebook). His podcast is available on his website - www.jasveersinghdangi.com, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify.
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Quick description of the book for a new reader - what should they expect?
- When Nasir-ud-Din Muḥammad Shah, a weak Mughal king, discovers the whereabouts of powerful weapons used in the worst battle mankind had ever seen, he is ready to go to any lengths to acquire them. His mighty empire is at its weakest, with threats of imminent attack from outside and enemies within India consolidating more control. With desperation, Shah hatches a plan and there is only one man who can help him – THE HUNTER.
The Hunter is a finder of rare antiquities and is highly reputed for his impeccable skills. Though he mysteriously remembers nothing of his past, he has powers that make him invincible. But it all changes one day, when he gets forced to embark to Kanika Dwar, to retrieve weapons the power-hungry king desires.
Tackling difficult mountainous terrains, thick jungles, dangerous bandits and rough waters, The Hunter races against time to find what’s been hidden away for centuries and save a loved one from the clutches of the king. But he knows handing over the Godly weapons can only bring destruction in epic proportions.
Will he relent under pressure? Or find a way to save the world from unthinkable damage? Find out in Part I of The Hunter Genesis, where the legends from our ancient world collide with the madness of the 18th century.
What was your inspiration for this book?
- With this book and the next part I want to create a series with an Indian treasure hunter as the protagonist. I have amalgamated real historical characters and places with fictionalised characters and story.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- Chetan Bhagat & Roald Dahn. Before I started writing I had never read any books apart from textbooks. These 2 have been my motivation because I have only read their books till now. I use my everyday experiences to write books.
Can you tell us a little about the locations in your book?
- The story takes place in the eighteenth century at various locations across India, primarily Delhi, and Mumbai
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- Many authors are scared of publishing their story because they are scared of what the world would think about their story. My suggestion to all aspiring authors is to take the first step.
Could you talk a little about your writing process?
- It starts with an idea & then I keep scribbling whatever comes to my mind. Over time I keep combining bits & pieces to put together a story.
Which character has had the greatest impact on readers?
- The Widow; she is mysterious and her face is always hidden. She manages an establishment which is considered immoral yet commands tremendous respect from everyone.
If the book were to be adapted for TV or film, who would you see in the lead role? Who did you have in your mind’s eye ?
- I haven't thought about this. As and when such an opportunity presents itself then I would leave it to the director to chose an apt cast.
How have readers responded ?
- The initial reviews through beta reading have been great and readers have greatly enjoyed the story
Where next? What are you working on now?
- Book 2 of the series is in final stages and will be out by mid 2023
