About Sridevi K.J. Sharmirajan
Sridevi Soundirarajan, known as Sridevi K.J. Sharmirajan, is an Indian professional with BE ECE , MBA and MA(YOGA IN HUMAN EXCELLENCE) degrees. She’s a diverse talent—a Bharatanatyam Dancer, Certified Yoga Teacher, Author, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Artist. Fond of romantic comedy, mythological, fantasy, and historical genres, Sridevi aims to captivate readers’ imaginations. “POSITIVE INFINITY,” her Poetry book, clinched the GOLDEN BOOK AWARDS 2023, INTERNATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD 2023, and 21st CENTURY EMILY DICKINSON AWARD. She is also the awardee of NARI PRATIBHA SAMMAN CHANGEMAKER 2023 from Sheforward. Her podcast “SPREAD POSITIVITY with AUTHOR SRIDEVI” is available on Apple podcast in the New and Noteworthy Category and it accompanies the book. Her life adage: ATTRACT POSITIVITY, REPEL NEGATIVITY, SPREAD POSITIVE INFINITY.
LiFT: Tell us about your book, the journey of writing it and its content.
Sridevi: “STRESSFUL LIFE VS ABUNDANT LIFE: YOGA IN A SAMURAI WAY” is a book that I wrote to share my journey and insights on finding balance and peace in a hectic world.
The inspiration for this book is to explore the teachings of yoga and the philosophy of the Samurai, both of which embody discipline, mindfulness, and resilience.
In the book, I delve into the contrasting aspects of a stressful life and an abundant life, drawing parallels between the challenges we face in the modern world and the principles that guided the Samurai. I intertwine the wisdom of yoga, focusing on mental and physical well-being, with the stoicism and determination of the Samurai.
Throughout the pages, I share practical techniques, exercises, and philosophical reflections to help readers navigate the stresses of life while striving for abundance and inner peace. It’s about finding that delicate equilibrium, much like a Samurai mastering the art of balance in combat.
The journey of writing this book was both enlightening and transformative. It involved extensive research into yoga philosophy, Samurai principles, and practical stress management. I also reflected on my own life experiences and how these philosophies could be applied to modern challenges.
My hope is that “STRESSFUL LIFE VS ABUNDANT LIFE: YOGA IN A SAMURAI WAY” serves as a guide for anyone seeking to lead a life filled with purpose, resilience, and abundance, even in the face of life’s adversities.
LiFT: Why you chose this title?
Sridevi: The title, “STRESSFUL LIFE VS ABUNDANT LIFE: YOGA IN A SAMURAI WAY,” was carefully chosen to encapsulate the essence and theme of the book.
“STRESSFUL LIFE VS ABUNDANT LIFE” immediately highlights the core dichotomy that many individuals face in their daily lives. “YOGA IN A SAMURAI WAY” conveys the approach and perspective through which this transition is viewed and achieved through the ancient practice that focuses on unity, balance, and well-being—both mentally and physically. The addition of “IN A SAMURAI WAY” draws upon the ideals and principles of the Samurai, renowned for their discipline, resilience, and philosophical insights. It brings in a unique perspective that illustrates how adopting traits and approaches reminiscent of the Samurai can help navigate the challenges of the contemporary world in a dignified and empowered manner.
Together, the title serves as a powerful encapsulation of the book’s core message: the journey from a stressful, imbalanced existence to a life filled with abundance, guided by the wisdom of yoga and the resilience of the Samurai philosophy.
LiFT: When did you realize that you want to be a writer and what’s your inspiration behind it?
Sridevi: When I decided to quit my software job during the lockdown 2020, I found my IKIGAI in YOGA and READING.I have taken Yoga classes from 2020 and I decided to follow my career as a YOGA Professional and I pursued my Master’s degree in YOGA FOR HUMAN EXCELLENCE and became Certified Yoga Teacher. Also, l love reading poems, essays and novels mostly in romantic comedy, mythological, fantasy and historical genre. Reading helped me to travel beyond my imagination so I want to pen up the same experience as an author and give the same experience to all my readers.
LiFT: Where do you see yourself ten years down the line in the world of literature?
Sridevi: Looking ahead ten years in the world of literature, I see my work making a significant impact. Through continuous dedication and growth, I aspire to become a recognized international award-winning author, with several published world best-seller books under my name to create a legacy.
I envision my writing evolving and maturing, delving into deeper and more complex themes. I hope to experiment with various genres, from contemporary fiction to thought-provoking speculative pieces, allowing my creativity to roam freely. Collaborations with fellow authors and participation in literary events could be on the horizon, enabling me to share my experiences, insights, and love for literature.
My vision is to create a global community that stands as a testament to the transformative power of literature, a community that encourages positivity, empathy, learning, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Ultimately, my goal is to touch readers’ hearts and minds, and to provoke thoughts, emotions, and discussions through my words.
LiFT: How much do you think marketing or quality of a book is necessary to promote a particular book and increase its readers?
Sridevi: Both marketing and the quality of a book are essential for promoting it and attracting readers. Quality is fundamental; a well-written, engaging book is more likely to satisfy readers and generate positive recommendations. However, marketing is necessary to create awareness and reach the intended audience. The right balance between a well-crafted book and effective marketing strategies optimizes a book’s success and readership growth. Engaging with readers further solidifies the book’s impact and encourages word-of-mouth recommendations, contributing to long-term success.
LiFT: What is the message you want to spread among folks with your writings?
Sridevi: Through my writings, I aim to inspire people to embrace the power of resilience and hope. I want to convey that even in life’s most challenging moments, there’s a potential for growth and transformation. Themes of positivity, perseverance,kindness, and understanding resonate strongly with me, and I hope to instill these values in my readers.
I aspire to ignite curiosity and critical thinking, encouraging readers to question the world around them and seek a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives.
Ultimately, my goal is to craft narratives that transport readers to different realms, allowing them to escape momentarily and find positivity in the world of imagination.
LiFT: What do you do apart from writing?
Sridevi: I am Sridevi Soundirarajan and I have completed my degree in BE ECE and MBA. After that I worked as a software professional in Bangalore. Also, I have completed MA YOGA FOR HUMAN EXCELLENCE.I am a Bharatanatyam Dancer, Certified Yoga Teacher, Author, Podcaster, Youtuber, Enthusiastic Reader and Artist. My podcast show: SPREAD POSITIVITY WITH AUTHOR SRIDEVI based on my book POSITIVE INFINITY is available on Apple podcast in New and Noteworthy Category, Spotify, YouTube and your favourite podcasting apps.
MY WORKS
SRIDEVI SOUNDIRARAJAN
1. POSITIVE INFINITY
2. 21 LAWS OF UNIVERSE
3. MY BOOK KINGDOM
4. ENCHANTED SEASONS: EMBRACING NATURE’S MAGIC
5. IKIGAI’S LIGHT: ILLUMINATING LIFE’S PATH
6. ICHIGO ICHIE HARMONY: THE GIFT OF PRESENT MOMENT
SRIDEVI K.J. SHARMIRAJAN
1. THE SAMURAI JOURNAL
2. ZEN BOOK SHELF: A 50 BOOK ZEN READING CHALLENGE JOURNAL
3. STRESSFUL LIFE VS ABUNDANT LIFE: YOGA IN A SAMURAI WAY
4. 200 ZEN STORIES: CULTIVATING POSITIVITY AND INNER PEACE
LiFT: What are the activities you resort to when you face a writer’s block?
Sridevi: When I face writer’s block, I have a set of strategies to reignite my creativity and get back on track. First and foremost, taking a break and giving my mind some rest is essential. Sometimes, stepping away and engaging in a different activity helps clear my thoughts.
Free writing or stream of consciousness is a technique I often turn to. Allowing my thoughts to flow without any structure or objective often leads to new ideas and inspiration. Changing my environment, whether it’s moving to a different space or simply rearranging my workspace, can also provide a fresh perspective.
Reading works of other authors is a powerful tool for me. It exposes me to different writing styles and themes, often sparking new ideas or helping me see my work differently. Discussing my ideas with fellow writers or friends can bring in new insights and suggestions that I might not have thought of on my own.
On challenging days, I remind myself that it’s okay to write badly initially. I give myself permission to write poorly, knowing that I can always revise and improve later. Breaking down my writing into achievable goals keeps me motivated, and celebrating my progress, no matter how small, keeps my spirits up.
Incorporating physical activity, like a run or yoga session, helps clear my mind and release any tension or stress that might be contributing to my writer’s block. Additionally, mindfulness practices and meditation assist me in calming my thoughts and allowing creativity to flow naturally.
Overall, these strategies form my toolkit to combat writer’s block, helping me find my way back to a productive and creative writing process.
LiFT: What if your story will be adopted as a movie? Whom would you want to work as a director or actors in it?
Sridevi: I would choose Mani Ratnam for his exceptional storytelling abilities and his knack for capturing the essence of the human experience in his films. His cinematic vision would align well with the depth and complexity of the novel.
Actor: Thalapathy Vijay
Reason: Thalapathy Vijay’s acting prowess and ability to convey a wide range of emotions make him an ideal fit for the complex and multifaceted protagonist.
Actress: Nayanthara
Reason: Nayanthara’s talent and versatility would enhance the portrayal of this crucial supporting character, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.
Antagonist:
Actor: Vijay Sethupathi
Reason: Vijay Sethupathi’s ability to portray intense and layered characters would make the antagonist formidable and intriguing.
LiFT: Are you working on your next book? If yes, please tell us something about it.
Sridevi: Currently, I’m engrossed in an exciting literary project—a fictional novel deeply rooted in the world of yoga. This endeavor allows me to merge my passion for storytelling with my love for yoga and its transformative power.
Even more thrilling is the collaboration I’m involved in—an ambitious project where I’m coauthoring a book alongside twelve remarkable individuals. Each coauthor brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table, enriching the book’s content and making it a comprehensive and well-rounded guide.
LiFT: What are your suggestions to the budding writers/poets so that they could improve their writing skills?
Sridevi: For budding writers and poets looking to enhance their writing skills, here are some valuable suggestions:
Read Extensively:
Read a wide range of genres and styles. Reading exposes you to different writing techniques, vocabularies, and storytelling methods, which can enrich your own writing.
Write Regularly:
Set aside time each day or week to write. Consistent writing practice hones your skills, helps you find your voice, and improves your creativity.
Experiment with Styles:
Don’t limit yourself to a specific style or genre. Try your hand at various writing styles, be it fiction, poetry, non-fiction, or even hybrid forms. This experimentation helps you find what resonates with you.
Seek Feedback and Learn from Criticism:
Share your work with trusted peers, writing groups, or online communities to gather constructive feedback. Learn to accept criticism positively and use it as a tool for growth.
Revise and Edit:
The first draft is just the beginning. Embrace the revision process. Refine your work, focus on clarity, structure, and grammar to elevate the quality of your writing.
Explore Writing Prompts:
Engage with writing prompts to spark creativity. They can inspire new ideas, break writer’s block, and encourage you to think outside your usual writing patterns.
Develop Your Voice:
Be authentic and true to your voice. Let your unique perspective and experiences shine through in your writing. Authenticity is what sets you apart.
Join Writing Workshops or Courses:
Enroll in workshops or online courses that offer guidance, feedback, and interaction with experienced writers. Learning from professionals can be immensely beneficial.
Understand the Craft:
Study the fundamentals of writing, including elements like plot, character development, setting, dialogue, and pacing. Understanding these basics will strengthen your storytelling.
Journal Your Thoughts and Ideas:
Keep a journal to jot down thoughts, observations, and ideas. This practice helps you stay connected with your creative mind and provides a rich resource for future writing projects.
Embrace Rejection and Persevere:
Rejections are part of a writer’s journey. Don’t be disheartened; instead, use them as motivation to improve. Keep submitting your work and persist in your writing journey.
Stay Inspired and Curious:
Stay curious about the world around you. Draw inspiration from everyday life, conversations, art, nature, or personal experiences. A curious mind is a fertile ground for creativity.
Click here to order Sridevi’s Book – Stressful Life vs Abundant Life
