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 fiction novel For My Sister releases in October 2022. The novel is about twin sisters Amla and Asya, who are unknowingly trafficked into SonaGachi, Asia’s largest red light district. Preorder 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.
Available October 2022, Köehler Books. Preorder 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
October 23rd | 12-5:30 pm: Day of the International Girl Child EventStop Being a “Good Girl” is a half-day hybrid conference held in recognition of the United Nation’s Day of the Girl Child, and in collaboration with local and internationally recognized experts to bring awareness on the intersections of human trafficking and internationally recognized human rights. This conference was inspired by Puja Shah’s book, For My Sister, with a book reading and signing at Encinitas Public Library. Register here.
October 30th | 3 pm: For My Sister Book Launch
Come meet Puja as she launches her book release for a special book signing and book reading at Diesel, A Bookstore in Del Mar Highlands Town Center. More info here.
November 3rd | 7-9 pm: San Diego Writers, Inc presents – Writing Fiction For Social Change With Puja Shah
In this workshop for all writers, Author Puja Shah will provide essential tips for how writers can serve as a voice of awareness on topics relevant to social change. With firsthand experience plus a guided visualization writing exercise, this course covers topics and research for those starting out as well as the query and book promotion for those ready to send their work out. All are welcome! Register here.
November 20th | 12-2 pm: Warwick’s Weekend with Locals
Join Puja at her book signing table at Warwick’s Bookstore, 7812 Girard Avenue La Jolla, CA 92037. No registration required, stop by, support a local bookstore, get your book signed and meet Puja! Learn more here.
meditations
Listen to Deep Dive Guided Meditations on Spotify, Deezer, Apple Muisc, Youtube Music or Tidal by clicking on the button below
blog
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
Writing in the Desert
Back in December, I took a trip out to the desert to welcome in my birthday, a celebration of my fourth decade. 2020 was the
philanthropy
The Shah Education and Exploration Foundation
For more information on Puja’s 501c3 nonprofit, visit: Education and Exploration
get in touch with Puja