Pratiksha Misra – Bestselling Indian Horror Folklore Author & Creator of Bhoota Gappa

Pratiksha Misra is a bestselling Indian author known for redefining horror through folklore-driven storytelling. She is the creator of Bhoota Gappa, a widely searched horror folklore series rooted in Odisha’s oral traditions. With 1000+ books sold, bestseller visibility across major book fairs, and a daily readership of over 100,000+ readers via JustUtter, her work resonates strongly with Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

Meet the Author

My writing journey started in 2009, till I finally published my first book in December 2023. I write about what I see versus what is shown—stories rooted in people, places, culture, relationships, and memory.

My parallel journey in technology began in 2005 after graduating as a Computer Science Engineer and moving to Mumbai to build a career in the tech industry. Today, I stand at the intersection of data, technology, and storytelling.

Who Am I?

I am a mom, a writer, a traveler, a runner, a philosopher, a storyteller, and a data & tech advocate. I strongly believe every little girl should be encouraged to explore Math and Science—because the time rabbit wants to see more female scientists through its looking glass.

My roots are embedded in Rourkela, Odisha, India. I have lived in the United States for over 14 years with my daughter, husband, and dog—carrying an Indian Bollywood soul beneath my immigrant exterior.

Bhoota Gappa — Odisha Horror Folklore Like Never Before

Bhoota Gappa is a living archive of Odisha horror folklore and Indian ghost stories. These stories don’t rely on spectacle—they feel remembered, whispered, and carried forward through generations.

• 1000+ books sold organically
• Daily Bhoota Gappa publishing via JustUtter (Facebook – 100K+ followers)
• 30K+ followers on Instagram (@thoughtswithinnocence)
• Top search results for Bhoota Gappa & Odisha horror folklore

Recognition & Bestseller Milestones

• Bestseller at Delhi, Goa, Pune & Ahmedabad book fairs
• Recognized as an influential contemporary author
• Strong Gen Z & Gen Alpha readership
• Web-series-worthy episodic storytelling format

What Readers Say

“These stories don’t scream. They whisper—and that’s what makes them terrifying.”
— Goodreads Reader

“Bhoota Gappa feels like folklore passed down in the dark.”
— Amazon Reader

Connect With Me

I write every day across Innocent Thoughts, JustUtter, Medium, and other storytelling spaces.

Facebook: JustUtter
Instagram: @thoughtswithinnocence

“It takes great courage to say you can write. Even more—to write exactly how you feel.”