As Where Anklets Once Danced prepares for its launch in the UAE and other countries, the writer reflects on storytelling, creative risks, and his growing literary journey.
In an era where stories move seamlessly between books, films, and digital platforms, Yash Gangwar is steadily building a name across both literature and screen entertainment. Working as a screenwriter in the film and television industry while pursuing a career as an author, Gangwar represents a new generation of storytellers unafraid to cross creative boundaries.
After years of working as an assistant writer on film and television projects, Gangwar developed a strong foundation in storytelling. Yet he felt drawn toward stories that required a deeper exploration of emotions and characters than a screenplay could always provide.
That ambition led to his debut novel, Where Anklets Once Danced, a historical fiction work that was warmly received by readers. The novel is now set for launch in the United Arab Emirates and Other Countries, expanding its reach to international audiences.
“When I started writing the book, I wasn’t thinking about international readers,” Gangwar says. “I simply wanted to tell a story that mattered to me. Seeing it reach readers beyond India is both exciting and humbling.”
Writing fiction proved to be a new challenge.
“Screenwriting and novel writing are very different crafts,” he explains. “A screenplay relies on visuals, while a novel requires you to build an entire world through words. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow as a writer.”
Gangwar followed his debut with Desi War, a Hindi thriller-suspense novel praised for its fast-paced narrative, unexpected twists, and cinematic storytelling style. The book showcased a different side of his writing, demonstrating his ability to move between historical fiction and contemporary thrillers.
According to Gangwar, the heart of every story remains the same.
“Whether it’s a novel or a screenplay, I’m always interested in characters, emotions, and the choices people make under pressure. That’s where the most compelling stories come from.”
While continuing his work in the entertainment industry, Gangwar is also developing several new literary and screen projects.
“Some stories belong on the page, while others belong on screen,” he says. “I’m fortunate enough to be working in both worlds, and there are many stories I still want to tell.”
With two successful novels, an expanding international readership, and multiple projects in development, Yash Gangwar continues to prove that great storytelling is not defined by the medium, but by the story itself.
