Subhechcha Ganguly 
Sridevi K. J. Sharmirajan is a talented female author who has made a significant impact in the literary world. With her books “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way” and “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace,” she offers readers insightful perspectives on finding balance, inner peace, and personal growth.
In “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” Sridevi explores the intersection of yoga and samurai philosophy, providing readers with practical tools to navigate the challenges of modern life. Her unique approach combines ancient wisdom with contemporary insights, making her work relatable and inspiring.
“200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace” is another remarkable creation by Sridevi. Through a collection of Zen stories, she invites readers to reflect on life’s deeper meanings, encouraging them to embrace positivity and find inner peace amidst the chaos of the world.
Sridevi’s writing style captivates readers with its depth and clarity, offering profound insights into personal transformation and the pursuit of a more fulfilling life. Her books have received recognition, including the Golden Book Award, International Excellence Award, 21st Century Emily Dickinson Award, Change Maker Award from Nari Pratibha Samman 2023, and the Author Finisher Award and Prolific Author Award from Author Freedom Hub.
Sridevi’s literary contributions have touched the hearts of many, inspiring readers to explore their own paths of self-discovery and embrace a more abundant life. Her words have the power to uplift, motivate, and guide readers towards a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Let us know more about her in this interview
- What inspired you to write “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way”?
Ans: “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way” was born out through the complexities of modern life and a deep exploration of the teachings of yoga and the way of the samurai.As I navigated the complexities of everyday life, the pressures of work, relationships, and societal expectations, I found myself yearning for a way to not only cope but thrive.
This desire for a more harmonious and fulfilling life led me to the wisdom of both yoga and the samurai philosophy. Yoga became my sanctuary, teaching me the art of mindfulness, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of inner peace. The samurai’s way showed me the strength in discipline, the beauty of honor, and the resilience in facing challenges with grace and determination.
The fusion of these two philosophies struck me as a powerful approach to reclaiming control over one’s life. It was like combining the fluidity of yoga with the strength and purpose of the samurai, a blend that felt empowering and transformative.I saw parallels between their philosophies and the principles of yoga – the importance of self-awareness, self-discipline, and finding inner tranquility amidst the storm.
Through “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life,” I hope to offer a roadmap to those seeking to find balance in their lives. I aspire to share the transformative potential of embracing yoga and the samurai way, urging readers to discover their own path towards inner peace, resilience, and create a life that is abundant in peace, purpose, and fulfillment.
- Can you tell us a bit about your book “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace”?
Ans:”200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace” is a labor of love, a reflection of my deep passion for Zen philosophy, and a celebration of my dedication to storytelling. Having been honored with the International Excellence Award in the category of female writers for this book is an indescribable joy and a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions.
Growing up, I was always drawn to the simplicity and profundity of Zen teachings. The parables and stories which i heard during childhood days have been a source of inspiration and guidance throughout my personal journey. They served as beacons of light during challenging times, illuminating the path to inner peace and contentment.
The idea for this book was conceived from my desire to share the profound insights and timeless wisdom found within Zen stories. I aimed to create a collection of 200 carefully selected and thoughtfully curated Zen stories, each designed to offer readers a glimpse into the essence of Zen philosophy and its practical application in everyday life.Each story is like a brushstroke on a canvas, painting a picture of mindfulness, awareness and enlightenment. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and find tranquility in the simplicity of these timeless tales.
Through “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace,” I hope to provide readers with a treasury of teachings that encourage reflection, mindfulness, and the nurturing of a positive mindset.I hope to inspire readers to embrace the present moment, find beauty in simplicity, and cultivate a sense of calm amidst the chaos of life.
Ultimately, my aim is to guide readers on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.Each story is a gentle reminder that within life’s trials and tribulations lies the potential for growth, wisdom, and finding the peace that resides within each of us.It’s a humble attempt to share the timeless teachings of Zen and help others find the beauty of peace within themselves.
- How do you incorporate the principles of yoga and samurai philosophy in your writing?
Ans: Incorporating the principles of both yoga and samurai philosophy into my writing has been a deeply personal and enlightening journey. Yoga, with its emphasis on mindfulness, balance, and unity, serves as a foundational pillar for structuring my thoughts and words. It encourages me to infuse my writing with a sense of inner reflection, to breathe life into each sentence, and to find harmony in the arrangement of ideas.
On the other hand, the wisdom of the samurai offers a unique framework for discipline, resilience, and purpose. Their unwavering commitment to mastery, honor, and courage informs the structure of my writing. Each story is a battleground, and every word is a strategic move, mirroring the calculated and intentional actions of a samurai in the midst of a battle.Each sentence is carefully crafted to reflect the precision and dedication of a samurai’s blade, cutting through complexities to convey clarity and purpose. I weave stories and narratives that embody the samurai’s ethos of facing challenges head-on, embracing adversity, and finding strength in the face of struggle.
Together, the yogic and samurai philosophies guide the tone, style, and content of my writing. The blend of these philosophies infuses my work with a sense of balance, strength, and mindfulness, ultimately aiming to inspire readers to navigate their own journeys with grace, purpose, and a resilient spirit—much like the way of the yogi and the samurai.
- What message do you hope readers will take away from your books?
Ans: Through “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace,” “The Samurai Journal,” and “Zen Bookshelf: A 50 Book Zen Reading Challenge Journal,” my ultimate aspiration is to plant seeds of transformation and enlightenment in the hearts of my readers. I hope that each page they turn will be a step towards self-discovery, empowerment, and a deeper understanding of the profound philosophies I’ve had the privilege to explore.
Through “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” I want readers to realize that amidst the chaos and demands of modern life, they possess the power to cultivate an abundant life. I hope they grasp the idea that integrating yoga and the samurai’s approach into their daily existence can bring forth a sense of balance, resilience, and tranquility. I yearn for them to see that with discipline, self-awareness, and mindful action, they can rise above stress and construct a life of purpose and abundance.
“The Samurai Journal” is a practical, hands-on tool derived from the teachings of the book. It’s a 3-month planner designed to help readers put these philosophies into action in their daily lives. It encourages them to set intentions, reflect on their progress, and stay disciplined in their pursuit of a more abundant life.
With “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace,” I strive to impart a sense of peace and mindfulness. I hope readers find solace and inspiration in these timeless Zen tales, embracing the teachings that encourage positivity, presence, and an awakened mind. I want them to internalize the notion that even in the simplest of stories lies profound wisdom that can illuminate their path towards inner peace and contentment.
On the other hand, “Zen Bookshelf” is a delightful reading companion, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the world of reading. It provides a structured way to challenge yourself by reading 50 books with the help of zen reading practice, encouraging self-reflection and growth through the wisdom contained in each book texts.
Ultimately, I aim for my books to be catalysts for positive change in the lives of my readers. I hope they walk away with a newfound perspective, a spark of motivation to lead a more meaningful and purpose-driven life, and the realization that the power to transform their lives lies within their own hands and hearts.
- How do you feel about receiving awards such as the Golden Book Award and the International Excellence Award?
Ans: Receiving the Golden Book Award and the International Excellence Award for my debut book, “POSITIVE INFINITY,” is an absolutely surreal and thrilling experience.The fact that my very first book has been honored with not just one, but three significant awards is beyond what I could have hoped for or imagined. It’s a validation of the countless hours, dedication, and passion I poured into creating a piece of work that I believe in wholeheartedly.
Furthermore, the podcast show, “SPREAD POSITIVE INFINITY WITH AUTHOR SRIDEVI,” finding a place in the New and Noteworthy category on Apple Podcasts, adds an extra layer of excitement and accomplishment. It signifies that the messages I shared in my book have transcended the written word and are making an impact through audio conversations as well. It’s a powerful way to extend the reach of the book’s themes and connect with a diverse audience.
These awards aren’t just shiny accolades; they symbolize the recognition of my unique voice and perspective in the literary world. It’s an acknowledgment that my words have made an impact, resonating with readers and industry experts alike. This recognition inspires me to keep pushing the boundaries of my creativity and storytelling. It fuels my determination to craft more narratives that touch the hearts and minds of my readers. It’s a reminder that my words have the power to make a difference and spread positivity in a world that often needs it the most.
These awards serve as a motivator, propelling me to continue honing my craft and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. They inspire me to delve deeper into the subjects and philosophies that drive my writing, knowing that the impact of my work is being recognized on a broader scale.It motivates me to continue writing and sharing stories that resonate with people and make a meaningful impact in their lives.
