Author Spotlight: Stress in Plants by Dr. Rishikesh Upadhyay

Plants cannot run from drought, heat, or salt, so they adapt, and that hidden struggle is the subject of Dr. Rishikesh Upadhyay’s Stress in Plants: The Hidden Half. Written by a professor of plant science in Assam, India, this nonfiction reference connects the physiological, ecological, biochemical, and molecular ways plants tolerate and adapt to their environments with one of the most urgent problems of our time: how to keep crops productive, and people fed, under the pressures of climate change.

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Q&A with Dr. Rishikesh Upadhyay

Q: Stress in Plants is a serious scientific work. What is it about, and what drew you to write it?

A: Well, the story behind my writing journey is deeply personal. Ever since my student days, I have been drawn to creative expression through reading, writing, and teaching. Whether it was crafting stories, poems, or articles, writing always felt like a natural extension of who I am. It gave my imagination a space to wander, grow, and take shape.

Over the years, writing became much more than a hobby. It became a companion. Whenever life felt challenging or overwhelming, I found myself turning to the page. Writing helped me make sense of my thoughts and emotions, transforming moments of uncertainty, joy, hope, or even frustration into something meaningful. I’ve always admired how artists and writers can turn their experiences into creations that resonate with others, and writing became my way of doing the same alongside my career in education.

My dual passions for teaching and writing are closely connected. As a professor, I have the privilege of interacting with young minds every day. Their curiosity, creativity, fresh perspectives, and thought-provoking questions continually inspire me. In many ways, my students challenge me to keep learning, imagining, and exploring new ideas. They remind me that every story begins with a question and every discovery starts with curiosity.

The idea for the book first came to me nearly three years before it was published, during a period of personal reflection and growth. Looking back, I realize that it mirrors not only my imagination but also my own evolving perspective on life. What began as a simple idea gradually developed into something much deeper, a work shaped by experience, observation, and a desire to connect with readers.

At its heart, my writing was born from a wish to create something meaningful, inspiring, and memorable. If it encourages even one reader to dream a little bigger, think a little deeper, or see the world with renewed wonder, then I feel I have accomplished what I set out to do as a writer.

Q: How does your writing actually happen day to day, and what made you decide to publish?

A: A lot of my writing ideas grow out of everyday life. Inspiration often comes from the most ordinary moments, something I notice while I’m out and about, a conversation I overhear, or an experience that stays with me long after it’s happened. Those sparks usually arrive unexpectedly, and my first thought is often, “There’s a story in that.” From there, I begin exploring the idea, drawing on my own perspective and experiences to shape it into something unique.

When it comes to my writing routine, I wouldn’t say I’m particularly disciplined or structured. Balancing work, teaching, and a social life means that dedicated writing time can be hard to find. Because of that, I tend to write whenever I can, most often during the quieter hours of the morning or late at night when the world has slowed down. There’s something about those peaceful moments that helps me focus, reflect, and fully immerse myself in the creative process. That’s when many of my ideas find their way onto the page.

Q: This is a book about plants, yet it is full of close observation. Which part was the most rewarding, or the most challenging, to write?

A: I have always been a keen observer of the world around me. Inspiration often comes from the simplest moments, everyday challenges, small victories, and the many ways people navigate life. I naturally find myself paying attention to how people behave and interact, how they solve problems, and how they make meaning out of their experiences.

I also enjoy observing people, plants, animals, as well as students and children. In many ways, they have been some of my greatest teachers when it comes to storytelling and writing. Watching their personalities, emotions, and unique perspectives helps me create work that feels genuine and relatable. Writing for children and poetry, in particular, brings me a sense of calm and deep satisfaction.

Although this book is non-fiction, it is deeply rooted in the life of plants. Each chapter draws from my observations of how plants live, grow, overcome challenges, and ultimately find fulfillment and purpose in their environments.

Q: What do you most hope readers take away from the book?

A: I am passionate about sharing positivity and a sense of wonder about plants with readers. Through my book, I hope students, readers, and researchers who are interested in nature will feel a spirit of curiosity, adventure, and discovery. My aim is to encourage them to observe and appreciate their own environment and the living organisms around them. At the same time, I gently guide them toward developing a healthy, balanced ecosystem and understanding how plants experience and respond to stress in their natural environments.

Q: How much of your own experience and observation went into it?

A: Many scenes in my published work are drawn from personal experience and close observation of the world around me. The ideas, reflections, and insights it carries are not only rooted in my own life, but also in the lives of people I have known and the environments I have moved through.

I often find inspiration in everyday routines, teaching, research work, and ordinary moments of daily life. In these quiet intervals, I allow my thoughts to wander freely. Whenever even the smallest idea comes to me, I make a point of noting it immediately on my phone. One thought gradually leads to another, and then another, until these scattered fragments begin to connect and form a larger, more meaningful narrative.

It is not easy to fully explain this creative process in words, but what I have shared here offers a glimpse into my mindset from about four years ago, when the foundation of this work first began to take shape.

Q: Is there a question about the book you wish readers would ask?

A: Perhaps the question I’m asked most often is: where did the title come from, and how? As I mentioned earlier, I tend to write ideas down as they come to me, whenever inspiration strikes. The title actually grew out of that same habit, almost organically, rather than being something I set out to create from the start. I think that’s part of what makes it meaningful to me, and something I hope will also spark questions from readers as they explore the book.

Q: Do you have a favorite part of the book?

A: Honestly, it’s hard to choose just one. I especially enjoy the parts of the book that combine information and education with inspiration for readers. Those moments stood out to me the most because they feel both meaningful and motivating.

Q: What was the biggest challenge in writing or publishing it?

A: I consider myself a natural writer, but I’ve learned that writing is only one part of the process. The real challenge comes after writing, such as editing, formatting, cover design, and marketing. These are areas that don’t come naturally to me, but I understand their importance, and I am continuously learning them.

One of the most difficult phases for me was when the book didn’t feel right in the early stages. It was quite frustrating, and I realized I couldn’t complete it alone. I needed support from beta readers and editors to get fresh perspectives and improve the manuscript in the right direction.

I usually write best early in the morning or late at night, when everything is quiet and I can focus better. Even though I have already published my book, I know there are still many challenges ahead. However, I see this as a normal part of the creative journey. Over time, I’ve started viewing challenges in a positive way. They help build resilience and push me to improve myself and my work continuously.

Q: What is next for you as a writer?

A: I also write articles, poetry, children’s stories, reviews, short stories, and more. I truly enjoy the entire creative process. It is both exciting and, at times, nerve-racking in a good way. I often find myself sitting alone, daydreaming, and allowing ideas to form naturally. For me, writing is a space of endless possibilities, where seeing thoughts and visions come to life on paper feels deeply fulfilling.

When I turned to writing books, I experienced a sense of complete creative freedom. Unlike teaching, writing has no boundaries, and that openness feels like pure magic. At present, I am working on a few projects. I am not yet certain how each will unfold, but I would like to release more poetry and possibly a short story collection, nonfiction, and children’s books. I am also in the process of completing my next book.

Author Bio

Rishikesh Upadhyay is Indian born, grew up and lives in Bhanjang Basti, Haflong, a small Nepali hamlet in the district headquarters of Dima Hasao (formerly North Cachar Hills), in the Indian state of Assam. His writings, short stories, articles, and reviews have been published both online and in print.

Dr. Upadhyay holds a PhD, MPhil and an MSc from Assam University Silchar and a BSc Hons from Haflong Government College. He is currently a Professor (Assistant) at Assam University affiliated Haflong Government College, India.

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