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.
September 27th | 6:30- 8:30 pm PST | Writing for Social Change: San Diego Writers, Ink | Virtual
Is there a cause you are passionate about? Do you love to write fiction? Do you perform spoken word poetry? 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.
September 30th | 5- 10 pm CST | Northstar 2 Freedom Gala for Global Orphan Prevention | Denver, CO
Support this For My Sister aligned cause at their annual fundraiser gala to help this nonprofit aid the prevention of child trafficking in Nepal through education, leadership and economic development. Puja will be present for book signing as her novel will be present for donation with 100% proceeds going to the cause. Get tickets here.
October 7th | 10 am – 12 pm PST | Writing Fiction for Preteens | Encinitas, CA
Does your child love writing? Creating stories? Have a vivid imagination?
In this Fiction Writing for Preteens workshop, award-winning author Puja Shah will teach about the key elements to writing the perfect short story with guided prompts and fun exercises that will allow each child to go home with their own mental toolbox of creative writing tips. Puja is a mother of two kids and has years of experience teaching children yoga and meditation where she understands each child’s unique creativity. All they need to bring is a notebook and their imagination! Class size is limited, so register today. All writing levels are welcome! For ages 10-13. Register via San Diego Writer’s, Ink here.
October 14th | 6-9 pm PST | International Day of the Girl Child Shadhika Fundraiser “Our Time is Now” | Palo Alto, CA
Join Puja as the guest speaker in support of the nonprofit Shadhika in Palo Alto as we come together to celebrate the Shadhika Scholars and harness the spirit of collective action in the name of gender justice. The event will be led by local Bay-area girls and feature stories from young women all across India creating change and inspiring the future of gender equity over dinner and drinks. Get tickets here.
October 29th | 12:45-5 pm PST | Blissful Day Writer’s Retreat | Encinitas, CA
Are you looking for a day of writing bliss?
Join award-winning author, trained yoga instructor and renowned meditation expert Puja Shah for a restorative afternoon of guided mindfulness, writing, gentle movement and tea plus a special sound bath by Noble Tones sound healer Julie Habelmann to cultivate connection to your creative self. You will foster creativity and leave feeling relaxed, connected and inspired. No experience necessary! All meditation, yoga and writing levels are welcome. Register via San Diego Writer’s, Ink here.
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.