Some journeys are etched in memory forever; receiving the International Author Excellence Award 2026 for my debut book “Footprints and Echoes” was one such journey.
🌏 Landing in Malaysia
The excitement began the moment my parents & I landed in Kuala Lumpur. The air was buzzing with anticipation; I carried with me my suitcase AND the love and good wishes of everyone who had cheered me on since the nomination.
💃 Draped in a Saree
On the day of the ceremony, Ma & I chose to wear sarees — a symbol of home, heritage, and pride. Representing India on an international stage felt empowering; I wanted my attire to reflect the roots that shaped me.
📝 Registration & First Glimpses
Walking into the Grand Millennium Hotel, I registered for the event and felt a rush of emotions when I saw my name displayed on the big screen. It was surreal — a reminder that this wasn’t just a dream anymore.
🎤 Words of Inspiration
The evening began with inspiring speeches by Manika Singh and Dr. Kailash Pinjani, who spoke passionately about the vision behind the Golden Awards and the importance of celebrating authors worldwide. Their words set the tone for a night of literary brilliance.
👏 Applause & Encouragement
As the ceremony unfolded, I was applauded for having the courage to write and publish my debut book. That recognition touched me deeply. I joined in applauding the other winners too, each of whom had their own inspiring journey.
📣 Hearing My Name
Then came the moment I’ll never forget — hearing my name called out. My heart raced as I walked up to the stage, each step echoing with gratitude and disbelief.
🤝 Receiving the Award
I received the award from Dr. Pinjani; as the cameras flashed, I felt a flush of shyness. Being in the limelight isn’t something I’m entirely comfortable with, but I reminded myself: this is just the beginning; I must learn to embrace it.
👨👩👧 Parents’ Pride
Among the applause and flashing lights, one image will stay with me forever — seeing my parents beam with pride. Their smiles carried years of encouragement, sacrifice, and belief in me. In that moment, I realized this award was as much theirs as it was mine.
🙏 Thanking Mahadev
Above all, I bowed my head in gratitude to Mahadev. None of this would have been possible without His blessings guiding me through every step of this journey. In the moments between the applause, I felt His presence reminding me to stay humble, grounded, and grateful.
📸 Posing & Group Photos
After posing for individual shots, we gathered for a group photo shoot. Standing among fellow authors from across the globe was humbling — a reminder of the collective power of words.
🍽️ Dinner & Reflections
The night continued with dinner, where conversations flowed easily and stories were exchanged. I wrapped up the evening with a short soundbite about “Footprints and Echoes”, sharing how the book was born from a desire to capture fleeting moments and lasting impressions.
💛 Gratitude & Looking Ahead
This award is mine but also belongs to everyone who believed in me, encouraged me, and celebrated my words. I am deeply grateful for the love and support that carried me here.
💛 I WILL keep writing. I WILL keep shining. 💛
Here’s to more stories, more connections, and more footprints and echoes in the hearts of readers everywhere. ✨
Get your copy of my book Footprints and Echoes here – https://amzn.in/d/0erwfrPS
