My Musings on Storytelling: Reflections from Four Decades

Storytelling is, at its heart, an act of listening. Often, we fill our days with chatter, forgetting that the letters used to spell LISTEN and SILENT are the same. My musings here focus on how we can bridge that gap.

The Philosophy of the Craft

For 45 years, I have explored why we tell stories. It is rarely just for fun. It is about connection. When I conduct a session at a corporate summit or a local school, I am looking for that moment where the audience stops being a passive observer and becomes a participant. We use the Japanese Kamishibai technique, traditional puppets, and rhythmic movement to facilitate this engagement.

Finding Your Antardhwani

We are all elemental by nature, but we often lose touch with our own voices. My workshops and retreats, such as our sessions at Arunachala, are designed to strip away the distractions. We look at different forms of listening—critical listening, empathetic listening, and listening to associate—to help you become a better storyteller in your own life, whether you are a teacher, parent, or leader.

Practical Storytelling Skills

If you are looking to learn, my approach is hands-on. We do not just discuss theories. We practice vocal projection, the use of masks, and the art of the 'story walk.' My heritage tale walks in places like Basavanagudi serve as a prime example of how we can use a physical space to unlock historical and cultural narratives. If you want to understand how to structure a narrative, use silence effectively, or simply find the confidence to speak your truth, I invite you to explore my upcoming workshops.