In the heart of the forest, where silence speaks and shadows tell tales, ten seekers will gather—not to find answers, but to ask better questions.
Just as Ram ventured into the wilderness with Vishwamitra, leaving behind the comforts of Ayodhya to confront the unknown, you too are invited to step into the forest—not merely of trees, but of thoughts, symbols, and stories. Here, under the guidance of Devdutt Pattanaik, mythologist and storyteller, you will embark on a journey to co-create a tapestry of mytho-fiction. The Himalayan Writing Retreat will be the venue for this coming together of talented writers.
📝 What Awaits You
Collective Creation: Ten writers will collaboratively craft a mytho-fiction narrative, each contributing over 3,000 words across four days.
Guided Exploration: Devdutt will lead sessions on the nuances of mythology, exploring definitions, structures, and storytelling traditions.
Editorial Insight: An editor from HarperCollins India will provide feedback, shaping the narrative’s journey from idea to manuscript.
Immersive Experience: Reside at the Himalayan Writing Retreat, where every meal, walk, and conversation becomes part of the creative process.
Devdutt will illustrate the stories in his distinctive style, adding a visual dimension to the collective narrative. If Harper Collins likes the final book thus created, they will publish it.
🧠 Who Should Apply
Writers under 38 years of age as of January 1, 2026, with a demonstrated history in fiction writing. Eligibility includes:
Publication of at least one short story in two respected literary magazines, or
A traditionally published book, or
Other credible evidence of published work (personal blogs or self-published platforms are not considered).
An original writing sample is required with your application.
📚 Themes of Exploration
Understanding Myth: Delve into the distinctions between myth, mythology, fiction, history, and science.
Cultural Structures: Examine the frameworks of Indian, Western, and Chinese myths.
Storytelling Traditions: Explore the Bhaav-Rasa theory intrinsic to Indian narratives.
🌄 The Setting
The Himalayan Writing Retreat offers a sanctuary where the mind can wander and the soul can reflect. Here, amidst crisp mountain air and the melodies of nature, stories find their voice. A residential haven for writers, the retreat attracts writers and poets from around the world for its various programs and events.
📍 Retreat Details
Dates: October 10–14, 2025
Location: Himalayan Writing Retreat, Village Satkhol, District Nainital, Uttarakhand
Cost: INR 10,000 + GST (This doesn’t cover the cost. Patrons and HWR bridge the gap. Travel expenses are borne by participant.)
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
Participant Limit: 10 writers
Announcement of Selected Participants: August 15, 2025
For more information and to apply:
Questions? Call or WhatsApp: +91 73035 16665.
In the forest, one does not seek to conquer but to understand. Join us in this journey of discovery, where mythology meets fiction, and stories come alive.
