New Delhi [India], October 8: In a world often divided between logic and emotion, CA Pranav Sharma stands as a rare bridge — a seasoned Chartered Accountant who has seamlessly transitioned from balancing ledgers to weaving heartfelt stories. At the age of 40, while most chase stability, Pranav chased sincerity, publishing his debut novel I Had a Best Friend Too and stepping into the literary spotlight for the first time.
“I never planned to become an author,” says Pranav. “Writing began as a confession, not a career move. It was just my way of expressing emotions I couldn’t articulate otherwise.”
A practising Chartered Accountant with expertise in finance, taxation, and audit, Pranav Sharma’s professional journey reflects discipline, precision, and years of perseverance. But behind the curtain of compliance and calculations was a storyteller shaped by nostalgia, friendship, and emotion. His novel I Had a Best Friend Too reflects that duality. Set in the simpler, more human era of 2009 to 2011, the story explores themes of love, loss, and youth before the age of constant connectivity.
“When people ask me what sets the book apart, I tell them it’s not just fiction — it’s memory, it’s emotion, it’s life as it was before Instagram reels and WhatsApp chats,” he shares. “Readers from the ’80s and ’90s, especially, have written to me saying it reminded them of their college days, their first friendships, and the times when connection wasn’t digital but deeply personal.”
And the recognition followed. Pranav’s debut was recently featured in The Bookish Gossips in an exclusive author interview. His book was listed among the Top 10 Books by Delhi Wire and also received the Best Fiction Award from The Literature Times. The Welred Foundation honoured him for his literary contribution, a reminder that stories told with sincerity do find their place, even if they begin late.
But Pranav’s story isn’t just about writing a novel. It’s about embracing a passion that had long taken a backseat to profession.
“At 40, I saw two firsts in my life — my first book published, and my first media interview,” he reflects. “That’s when I truly understood — dreams don’t check your date of birth.”
His ability to balance his identity as a Chartered Accountant with his heart as a storyteller gives his journey a compelling twist. While the world expects people to pick a lane early, Pranav's life is a reminder that it’s possible to walk more than one path and walk them both with meaning.
He hopes that this unique combination will inspire others, especially professionals who’ve shelved their passions in the name of practicality.
“I believe a person can be a professional by career and a storyteller by passion, and both identities can co-exist beautifully,” he says.
Pranav is now building recognition as an author, not just to promote his book, but to share the journey behind it — the quiet honesty that started it all. His writing may be rooted in nostalgia, but his mission is very much present-day: to connect with people, to remind them of simpler times, and to encourage them to pursue the voices they’ve long buried.
Looking ahead, Pranav will be participating in several major book events in 2025 and 2026, showcasing I Had a Best Friend Too and meeting readers across India.
National Book Trust Presents – Nagpur Book Fair 22nd November to 30th November 2025 Venue: Reshim Bagh Ground, Nagpur
National Book Trust Presents – Pune Book Fair 13th December to 21st December 2025 Venue: Fergusson College Ground, Pune
Delhi Book Fair 2026 Dates to be announced Venue: New Delhi
These fairs are not just promotional opportunities for Pranav. They are platforms to engage with readers, listen to their stories, and share their own. It’s a continuation of the connection his book has sparked — personal, honest, and deeply human.
For those looking for a story that feels real, that captures the essence of pre-digital friendship and love, Pranav’s novel offers a return to the raw emotions we often hide behind screens today. And for those who think it's too late to follow their passion, his journey offers a quiet, powerful answer. It's never too late as long as it's honest.
Call to Action
To connect with CA Pranav Sharma, follow his journey on Instagram @capranav_author or visit his website capranavauthor.com to learn more about his debut novel, upcoming appearances, and future stories.
