namaste
I believe in the magic of a good story. I also believe in the power of connection.
As I meditate, I connect with myself, others and the world at large. As I write, I unleash my creativity towards awareness on topics that can inspire change.
My Debut Novel, For My Sister, is the Winner of the 2023 Literary Titan Fiction Book Award, 2022 International Impact Book Award and 2022 American Writing Award for Social Change. The novel is about twin sisters Amla and Asya, who are unknowingly trafficked into SonaGachi, Asia’s largest red light district. Order your copy now.
about Puja
Dr. Puja Shah is a philanthropist and visionary poet who shares her voice through written and spoken word, guided meditations, and teaching. A true miracle, she was born over 2 months premature in Queens, N.Y. to immigrant parents, yet doctors thought she wouldn’t survive. Through the power of Sanskrit mantras, she was given the name Puja, which means prayer. She grew up to defy teachers who questioned her English skills by winning numerous poetry and short story awards in her youth.
As an avid reader, she spent her teen years exploring New York City for poetry slams and book readings. Being first generation, the blend of east and west has always fascinated her. She holds a graduate degree in dental medicine from Tufts University and then found courage to pursue her passion for writing. Along with three yoga teacher trainings, Puja has received countless education in various forms of yoga, meditation and ancient wisdom. She currently lives in Southern California with her family.
President of The Shah Education and Exploration Foundation
Co-Founder of Deep Origins
Chief Content Officer for Project Yourself
Co-founder of The Chai Mommas
I am love. I am purpose.
I have the power to create change.
books
For My Sister is a heartfelt novel about the deep bond of sisters. 16-year-old twins Amla and Asya are forced into the very real and taboo world of sex trafficking in India. As their journey leads them oceans apart from one another, will they ever see each other again? This book is for anyone who loves a hopeful story about self-discovery and girls rising up against all odds.
As Seen On:
Available NOW, order your copy of For My Sister:
Children’s Books
“I want to sing you a lullaby, one that drifts sweetness in your sleep…compassion in your heart…with examples of courage, love, laughter and wisdom.” With beautifully illustrated pages, this poetic book will sing words that rise from the heart and share true soul as you read this lullaby of awareness to your little one of any age.
Explore different yogic breathing exercises in this whimsical journey of mother and child. Includes breathing instructions at the end.
events and booksignings
Last Tuesday of the Month | 1:00 pm PST | Monthly Mindfulness and Writing class, San Diego Writer’s, Ink
Come to a free mindfulness and writing at the Dove Library in Carlsbad, CA with Puja. More info here.
April 19th | 6-7:30pm PST | Poem Inside You Virtual Event
You will be guided on a creative, meditative journey by Puja and co-hosts influencer published poet Godhuli Gupta will prompt you to write poetry and renowned poetry champion Gill Sotu will shares his journey and tips. Free to register, suggested donation to poetry orgs helping youth listed in the Eventbrite. Register here.
April 29th | 10:00 am PST| Socal Asian Pacific Islander Festival Book Signing and Yoga
Come to the first ever SoCal Asian Pacific Islander Festival in Oceanside, CA for a meet and greet with Puja as a featured author in the library and For My Sister book signing. Then join Puja for her mini yoga class in the community room. Over 20 cultures featured with food dance and fun for all ages. More info here.
April 30th | 5:00 pm PST| Feminist Book Club Poetry Night
Come listen to Puja and other renowned poets for a virtual poetry reading with Feminist Book Club to honor National Poetry Month. Register for free here.
May 2nd | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm PST| Oasis India Lunch + Learn
Join Puja at Adya restaurant in Anaheim, CA for discussion with Oasis India Outreach Manager Vishwas Udgirkar over a delicious lunch. Oasis India aims to prevent human trafficking in India. $30 pp includes lunch, lassi, chai and a kindle copy of For My Sister. Fill out contact form below for payment info to reserve a spot by April 27th.
meditations
Listen to Deep Dive Guided Meditations on Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music, Youtube Music or Tidal by clicking on the button below
blog
Why I Write For Social Change
Note: A version of this article first appeared in Brown Girl Magazine. As a first-generation South Asian American girl, I remember questioning ways my culture
The Vinyasa of Poetry
The thing about poetry is its fluidity, its flow, it’s beauty to adapt to feeling and sound. To external and internal environments, occurrences, places, beings.
13 Powerful Ideas For Your Journaling Practice
I love journaling. For as long as I can remember, I have kept a journal. It was the meditation I practiced before I knew what
philanthropy
The Shah Education and Exploration Foundation
For more information on Puja’s 501c3 nonprofit, visit: Education and Exploration
get in touch with Puja
Press inquiries, interview requests, speaking events, book clubs and questions about the book or mission are most welcome.