Mangal D Karnad
Author & Storyteller
Poetry and Stories Shaped by Memory
Stories That Stay Long After They Are Read
About Me
The Author Behind the Stories
I am a writer working across poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. As an Indian storyteller, much of my work is shaped by memory, observation, and the ordinary moments that often leave lasting impressions.
Growing up in Mulki, a small coastal town in Karnataka, gave me a world filled with closely connected neighbourhoods, family traditions, everyday rituals, and experiences that quietly shaped childhood. Many of these memories continue to find their way into my writing.
Many of my children's stories draw inspiration from real experiences from my own life, fictionalised through storytelling. Names and characters may change, but the emotions, relationships, and spirit of those moments remain intact.
Alongside children's fiction, I write poetry that explores life, work, relationships, ageing, and the thoughts people often carry within themselves. Through poetry and storytelling, I hope readers pause, remember, and discover meaning in familiar moments.
Beyond writing, I am the co-founder of FableSquare, a storytelling and digital marketing agency. Alongside my work as an entrepreneur, I also speak on storytelling, reinvention, and personal branding.
The Shelf
My Books
Malli and the Mulky Stories - 2
More Stories of Childhood, Family and Small Wisdoms
Coming in October 2026
Malli is back. A storyteller’s gift to every generation, Book Two brings ten new stories soaked in nostalgia — from the lanes and courtyards of Mulky — a cat who loved idlies, a mouse with a yellow necklace, a mischievous monkey in the garden, and the night the anklets rang. For children who love stories, and for the adults who remember being one.
Each story is accompanied by an illustration, offering readers a glimpse into the imagery behind the stories.
Folded Away Softly
Published
A Contemporary Poetry Collection in English
Folded Away Softly is a collection of poems drawn from small moments and emotions that often remain unnoticed, memories that return unexpectedly, conversations that linger, and feelings that stay with us long after they happen.
These poems are not centred on dramatic events or grand declarations. They dwell instead in familiar experiences, the scent of jasmine at dusk, unfinished conversations, moments of longing, and the tenderness hidden in everyday life.
Each poem is accompanied by an illustration and a brief backstory, offering readers a glimpse into the memory behind the words.
Folded Away Softly
A Contemporary Poetry Collection in English
Folded Away Softly is a collection of poems drawn from small moments and emotions that often remain unnoticed, memories that return unexpectedly, conversations that linger, and feelings that stay with us long after they happen.
These poems are not centred on dramatic events or grand declarations. They dwell instead in familiar experiences, the scent of jasmine at dusk, unfinished conversations, moments of longing, and the tenderness hidden in everyday life.
Each poem is accompanied by an illustration and a brief backstory, offering readers a glimpse into the memory behind the words.
Malli and Mulky Stories
Malli and the Mulki Stories is inspired by real experiences from my own childhood years in Mulki, fictionalised through storytelling and imagination.
Names may have changed, but many of the emotions, places, and experiences come from lived memories.
Set in a world of neighbourhood friendships, festivals, courtyards, orchards, and everyday adventures, these stories capture childhood as it was lived rather than created, where learning happened naturally through curiosity and participation.
Engagements
Media & Speaking
Being a storyteller from India, I enjoy conversations around storytelling, writing, reinvention, and
personal journeys, whether through workshops, podcasts, panels, or community discussions.
Folded Away Softly Book Launch
Launched Folded Away Softly, a collection of contemporary, illustrated poetry on the 16th of April, 2026 at Atta Galatta, Indiranagar. The hall was filled with family, friends and well-wishers.
Brand Summit 2026 — PES University
Spoke at Brand Summit 2026, PES University, on a panel exploring ethical branding and conscious choices and how business owners communicate their values through authentic storytelling.
Short Story Writing Workshop
Facilitated a Short Story Writing Workshop Tradition to Imagination bringing together women writers to explore the craft of storytelling, find their voice, and discover the stories only they can tell.
Open to podcast and webinar participation covering reinvention and brand voice.
Musings
Latest Blogs
Author’s Journey: Shoaib Ahmed and The Product Code Welcome back to Author’s Journey, the series…
Children’s Books Set in Coastal Karnataka Coastal Karnataka, also known as Karavali, is the stretch…
Discover Cancer Warrior Ramendra Kumar’s inspiring journey through cancer, resilience, storytelling, humour, writing and a…
Ventures
Beyond Writing
FableSquare – a digital marketing and creative agency where we help brands find their voice, tell their stories, and grow with clarity and impact. What started as a spark of an idea has today become a trusted partner for businesses across industries.
Yarn Bear – my love for crochet turned into a brand that celebrates handmade charm. From thoughtful designs to pieces that carry warmth and care, Yarn Bear is all about creating joy through craft.
Get In Touch
Let's Connect
"Whether it's about my books, upcoming releases, speaking invitations, or simply a note from a fellow reader I'd be delighted to hear from you."
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