That Girl Spotlight: Ruchi Acharya

Meet Ruchi—a writer, poet, and the creative force behind Wingless Dreamer. As the founder and Editor-in-Chief, she’s built a space where words take flight and storytellers from around the world come together. Whether she’s weaving poetry or crafting prose, Ruchi’s writing lingers in the soul, painting emotions with every line.

In this conversation, she spills the ink on her creative process, what fuels her passion, and the journey that led her here. 

Creating a Literary Community: Wingless Dreamer

[IHS] Tell me about your literary journal, Wingless Dreamer. When did you start it, and what inspired you?

[Ruchi] I founded Wingless Dreamer in 2019, inspired by my time studying English Literature at the University of Oxford. It was a dream come true, and I realized how much I wanted to create a space where writers and poets could express their raw emotions without fear. In today’s world, where careers in medicine, engineering, and business are respected far more than the arts, I wanted to advocate for the power of literature. Poetry and storytelling preserve human sentiment, yet they are often undervalued. That’s why I built this platform—to celebrate genuine, unpolished creative expression.

[IHS] That’s beautiful. Writers need spaces where they can feel vulnerable and unfiltered. I saw your website, and the phrase ‘embracing your emotions’ stood out to me. Your journal provides an inviting space for writers to be themselves.

[Ruchi] Exactly! Awards and trophies don’t define a writer’s worth. What matters is that you poured your heart into your work. It’s about authenticity over superficiality.

Dream Literary Conversations

[IHS] If you could have a conversation with any classic literary author, who would it be and why?

[Ruchi] That’s a tough one! But without a doubt, Virginia Woolf. Her ability to explore consciousness with poetic prose fascinates me. I’d love to ask her about the process behind Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse. Her works feel timeless—her themes of identity, mental health, and human emotions remain relevant even today. I’d also love to hear her thoughts on modern capitalism and how she’d interpret today’s world.

On Writing Off the Cliff by Ruchi Acharya

[IHS] What was your biggest challenge in writing Off the Cliff, and how did you overcome it?

[Ruchi] Writing Off the Cliff felt like standing on the edge of a precipice—scary, exhilarating, and liberating all at once. The biggest challenge was transforming raw, unfiltered emotions into poetry that doesn't just whisper but roars with truth. I wanted each verse to hit hard—no sugarcoating, just raw honesty. This book isn't just poetry; it's a declaration—a call to accept oneself and resist the pressures of society's greed-driven expectations.

[IHS] That’s so powerful. Books like these make you feel like you can do anything. Writers and artists have this incredible ability to turn pain into something meaningful, and that’s just amazing.

"I’ve realized that when writers and artists embrace their imperfections, they create the most genuine and impactful work. Just be yourself." - Ruchi Acharya

Advice for Aspiring Writers

[IHS] What advice would you give to writers trying to get published for the first time?

[Ruchi] Don’t wait for perfection—just write. Authenticity always leaves a lasting impact. Many writers get caught up in trying to craft the ‘perfect’ piece, but raw and honest storytelling resonates more than polished perfection. Also, do your research. Understand the journals you’re submitting to, follow submission guidelines, and tailor your work accordingly. And most importantly, don’t fear rejection. Even I face rejections, and they’re a part of the journey. Constructive criticism helps you grow, and learning is a continuous process.

[IHS] That’s such great advice. Writing should always be about genuine self-expression, not just about chasing accolades.

Rapid-Fire Round

[IHS] Pen or keyboard?

[Ruchi] Keyboard

[IHS]Early morning writing or late-night inspiration?

[Ruchi] Early morning writing

[IHS] Poetry or prose?

[Ruchi] Poetry

[IHS] Tea or coffee?

[Ruchi] Coffee

[IHS]Dream literary dinner guest—who’s invited?

[Ruchi] Virginia Woolfe

Ruchi Acharya—poet, dreamer, and literary firecracker from Mumbai—is here to remind the world that human emotions aren’t for sale. As the founder of Wingless Dreamer, a global hub for writers and artists, Ruchi’s mission is to ensure every creative soul gets the spotlight they deserve. On her path to becoming a world-class writer, she’s wielding her words like magic wands, advocating for love, feelings, and all the messy beauty of being human in this overly commercialized world.

Her mantra? “All worries are less with wine.” Cheers to that!

Website: ruchiacharya.com