Shubhankar Mishra is a distinguished neurologist from eastern India, celebrated for his academic brilliance and profound expertise in neuroscience. A gold medallist in both his postgraduate and super-specialty training, he has contributed extensively to medical literature and serves as a reviewer for renowned international journals. Beyond the clinic, Dr. Mishra is a passionate explorer of Indian history, spirituality, astrophysics, and ancient knowledge systems. His popular weekly blog, neurons.blog, recognized among the top neuroscience blogs worldwide, reflects his commitment to blending science with philosophical wisdom. A devoted follower of Bhagawan Shiva and a seeker on the Kriya Yoga path, Dr. Mishra brings a unique confluence of scientific rigor and spiritual insight to his writings. The First Love Story: Dakshayani marks his foray into storytelling—where mythology, devotion, and timeless wisdom come alive.
The Literature Times: What inspired you to retell the story of Dakshayani and explore the lesser-known aspects of Shiva and Shakti’s early relationship?
Shubhankar Mishra: We are so unfortunate that we lack knowledge of our epics. It is very difficult to read from Sanskrit books. That’s why I decided to retell the story in a modernised version without changing the original story.
The Literature Times: Many people know only the climax of Sati’s story. What do you believe readers miss when they overlook the journey behind it?
Shubhankar Mishra: That’s the single thing everyone knows. The tale of Sati originates from the origin of creation itself. In the reputed literature, this story is often missed. That’s why I decided to bring it out. She was a princess. But she left everything for her love and devotion. Her journey is worth reading.
The Literature Times: How did your background in neuroscience influence your interpretation of ancient Indian narratives and emotional themes in the book?
Shubhankar Mishra: Our existence is defined solely by our brain. That’s why spirituality is closely linked to our brain. In the book, we discuss the neuroscience of love, emotion, grief, and happiness, all of which fall within the realm of neuroscience. The reality of consciousness is a significant mystery in neuroscience. In this book, many such profound topics are explained using simple language. Thanks to my knowledge of neuroscience, I found it easy to interpret these concepts.
The Literature Times: What was the most challenging aspect of rewriting a story rooted in Mythology while keeping it relatable for modern readers?
Shubhankar Mishra: It’s challenging to craft an authentic story with engaging and captivating narration because today people have less patience for reading. We are living in an era where T20 cricket and short reels are much more popular than other formats. That’s why narration is important. The reader should feel as if they are inside the story, as though the story is happening right in front of them. It needs retelling of the tale with a modern approach. This was extremely challenging.
The Literature Times: If readers take away one core message from The First Love Story: Dakshayani, what would you want it to be?
Shubhankar Mishra: No one can change fate. True love can move the greatest ascetic.
The Literature Times: As a follower of Bhagawan Shiva and the Kriya Lineage, how has your spiritual path shaped your understanding of consciousness and ancient stories?
Shubhankar Mishra: Consciousness is the greatest mystery of neuroscience. To understand it, one must possess adequate knowledge of yoga. It is the only path to experiencing the Turiya state, which is absolute consciousness. And Shiva is consciousness. Without spiritual knowledge, it is impossible to comprehend the complexity of the brain and consciousness.
The Literature Times: Do you see parallels between neuroscience and Indian philosophical concepts—especially in the way consciousness and devotion are described?
Shubhankar Mishra: Yes, definitely. Even now, the most authentic and scientific philosophy is adhered to by Sanatan Dharma. Even now, neuroscience remains silent on consciousness. However, Upanishadic philosophy believes that consciousness is the fundamental fabric of the universe. In my view, in some decades, neuroscience will accept it.
The Literature Times: Your blog has been recognised among the world’s top neuroscience blogs—how did writing scientific content transition into crafting a mythological narrative?
Shubhankar Mishra: In my view, both can coexist. The content of neuroscience focuses on the intricacies of the brain, while spirituality centres on the soul.
The Literature Times: With your demanding medical career, how do you find the balance and inspiration to write creatively?
Shubhankar Mishra: It’s extremely difficult. But if willpower is there, impossible is nothing.
The Literature Times: Can we expect more mythological or spiritually inspired works from you in the future—and if so, what themes intrigue you next?
Shubhankar Mishra: I am currently writing the next part of this book. It is titled The First Love Story – Himaputri. It’s the sequel to this book. Another poetry collection about the journey of the soul, I have written. It is now in print. The book is named ‘The Silent Flame’.
