Shyamala: I lived in a school hostel for two years as a teen. I could relate to the loneliness and homesickness that Freddie had while staying in a boarding school.
I also wore braces for my protruding teeth, a condition which was recognised and addressed early by my parents. I wondered how Freddie survived the name calling in his boarding school. His original name 'Farrokh' was replaced with 'Bucky' as he had buck teeth. Our name builds our identity. Imagining how difficult it must be to be stripped of your confidence bit by bit everyday helped to explore Freddie 's character.

Frontlist: The book deals sensitively with themes of bullying, self-doubt, and loneliness how did you ensure these difficult emotions are presented in a way that is both honest and empowering for young readers? 

Shyamala: Every word in the book was written, revised and distilled many times to make it just right for the young readers.What the text didn't express, the art showed. The creative partnership with illustrator Pankaj Saikia for over a year helped. Pankaj explored Freddie's emotions through colours.The dark colours in the beginning pages transition to light as Freddie's emotions go through a roller coaster ride. 

Frontlist: Music becomes a turning point in Farrokh’s journey how important was it for you to highlight creativity as a tool for emotional expression and confidence-building?

Shyamala: It was very important to let children know creativity can be used as a tool for emotional expression and confidence building. It may take many forms and change as we grow in our lives. We have to have an open mind and give ourselves the chance to change and adapt everyday of our lives .

Frontlist: Many children today struggle with peer pressure and performance anxiety how do you see this story helping them navigate those challenges? 

Shyamala: I hope children turn to music , sports and other hobbies to deal with their challenges. The alone time with the hobbies gives an opportunity to think and explore new solutions. With the arrival of the mobile phone, kids find it easy to slip into games and scroll through reels instead of addressing their problems with introspection .Freddie Mercury lived before the internet era and channeled his energy into sports, healed and grew with music.

Frontlist: Picture-book biographies require simplicity with depth how did you balance storytelling with meaningful life lessons without overwhelming young readers? 

Shyamala: Once my publisher Trisha de Niyogi decided the direction the story must take, I worked with my editor Pooja Kadaboina for over a year to balance/ tone down the emotions and bring the story alive.

Frontlist: Your narrative encourages empathy and kindness how important is it for books like this to shape not just confident individuals, but also compassionate peers?

Shyamala: It is extremely important to develop empathy and kindness in building an inclusive world. 
The fear of being judged by peers is high among children. Building the courage to help a friend in distress matters. Being kind matters.It raises the bar for the entire class/ neighbourhood and helps to normalise empathy and kindness as being part of our DNA.

Frontlist: In a world where children are constantly comparing themselves to others, how does Farrokh’s journey reinforce the idea of celebrating individuality?

Shyamala: Freddie accepted his buck teeth that couldn't be changed and single mindedly built the courage, focused and honed his musical talent .
Children are the best advocates to initiate change and be a best version of themselves.

Frontlist: If “The Reader of Tomorrow” takes away one lasting message from Under Pressure, what is the inner strength or belief you hope they carry forward?

Shyamala: I hope they build resilience and go forward at their own pace no matter what life throws at them.
The following Martin Luther King Jr's quote is applicable at all times: "If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving."
Also choose good friends to help you pause, rest and heal. You don't need to face your challenges alone.