Dr. Sridevi Soundirarajan (H.G) receives The Nurturing Young Minds Award

The International Children’s Welfare Society is glad to announce the Nurturing Minds Award . This award is being presented to the Author whose book has created a significant change in the society . 

 

Dr. Sridevi Soundirarajan (H.G), also recognized as Sridevi K.J. Sharmirajan, hails from India with a multifaceted academic journey encompassing a BE in Electronics and Communication Engineering, an MBA, and an MA in Yoga for Human Excellence. She has been bestowed with prestigious accolades, including an honorary doctorate award in Literature from the Iconic Peace Award Council and a honorary gold medal from DRDC Global.Presently, she serves as the GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR and GLOBAL LITERARY AMBASSADOR of THE INSPIRING WOMEN COMMUNITY (TIWC), as well as a GOODWILL AMBASSADOR at PRITHVI-WOMEN CLIMATE WARRIOR by HERstory Times. Additionally, she holds the esteemed position of an INTERNATIONAL MEMBER AND AMBASSADOR at KALAM EDU-VERSITY.

 

The newest addition to her collection, “208 Zen-Inspired Samurai Tales: Kids Meditation Palette,” draws inspiration from the award-winning books “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace” and “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” recipients of the prestigious Golden Wizard Book Prize 2024. This coloring book is designed specifically for young readers, featuring 208 captivating illustrated tales that aim to instill qualities of calmness, positivity, and wisdom. By continuing her mission to impart positive values to future generations, she has earned the esteemed Rashtriya Pratibha Samman 2024.

Let us know about Dr. Sridevi Soundirarajan (H.G.) in this Exclusive Interview with Children’s Welfare Society

Q1) Do tell the authors a bit about your book .

Ans In “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” I seamlessly blend yoga and the Bushido code, offering transformative exercises for holistic well-being. With a Samurai Themed Journal, brimming with poems and affirmations, I innovate personal growth by merging ancient wisdom with modern philosophies for practicing in daily life. Garnering Amazon’s #1 bestseller status, my work has earned more than 10 accolades like the Inspiring India Authors Award 2023, Ukiyoto Literary Award and the Golden Book Award 2024. My acclaimed works, “200 Zen Stories: Cultivating Positivity and Inner Peace” and “Stressful Life vs Abundant Life: Yoga in a Samurai Way,” were honored with the Golden Book Wizard Prize 2024. These books seamlessly blend Zen, Samurai, and yoga wisdom, resonating across cultures with translations in Japanese, Korean, Thai, Malay, and Italian. Moreover, my newest coloring book, “208 Zen-Inspired Samurai Tales: Kids Meditation Palette,” seeks to imbue young readers with calmness, positivity, and wisdom through 208 interactive stories drawn from my previous works. This initiative was honored with the esteemed Rashtriya Pratibha Samman 2024, reinforcing my commitment to instilling positive values in the minds of future generations.

 

Q2) We would be diving a bit deeper. As now you have written a book that is a major help to a lot of kids around . Did you come across any similar books in your childhood.

Ans Growing up, my childhood was enriched by the timeless tales my grandparents shared during bedtime. Stories of Akbar Birbal, Tenali Raman, and Vikramadityan weren’t just entertainment; they were profound lessons in morality and wisdom. These narratives sparked my imagination and instilled valuable values that have stayed with me into adulthood. While my book may be a new addition to children’s literature, it draws inspiration from the rich tradition of storytelling that shaped my upbringing. Just as I benefited from these tales, I hope my book serves as a similar beacon of guidance and inspiration for today’s youth.

 

Q3) A lot of kids from a very tender age are now inclined towards social media . What would be your message for the parents of those kids ?

Ans As a children’s book author, I understand the allure of social media for today’s youth. Encourage your children to explore alternative forms of engagement, such as diving into enriching books, especially those with moral lessons and coloring activities.Books are like special places where you can be creative and calm. When kids color and listen to stories, they can imagine lots of things and become really good at thinking. This is much better than spending too much time on screens. It’s important for parents to help kids enjoy books right from when they’re little. That way, they’ll always love learning new things.So, my message to parents is simple: prioritize books in your child’s life, as they are the gateway to a richer, more fulfilling journey of self-discovery and growth.

 

Q4) What is the most challenging aspect of writing a Children’s book ?

Ans In my experience, the most challenging aspect of writing a children’s book is striking the delicate balance between simplicity and depth. Children have remarkably perceptive minds, capable of grasping complex ideas, yet their attention spans require concise storytelling. Crafting a narrative that is both engaging and age-appropriate while conveying meaningful messages can be daunting. Additionally, ensuring the illustrations complement the text to enhance comprehension adds another layer of difficulty. Ultimately, the challenge lies in captivating young readers’ imaginations while imparting valuable lessons in a format they can easily digest and enjoy. It’s a delicate dance that requires careful consideration and creativity.

 

Q5) As an author, while writing the book does the question of how many sales the book would incur ever come to your mind ?

Ans Certainly, as an author, I can’t help but consider the commercial success of my book. While the primary focus is on creating a compelling story that resonates with readers, the reality of the publishing industry means sales figures are always a consideration. However, I strive to balance this awareness with my passion for storytelling and the desire to create something meaningful and impactful. Ultimately, my goal is to produce a book that not only sells well but also touches the hearts and minds of readers, leaving a lasting impression regardless of the sales figures.

 

Q6) Do share a quote relevant to your book . 

 “Encourage children to absorb the serenity of Zen, finding peace in nature and in their inner selves.Through yoga, let them discover the strength and flexibility of their own bodies and minds. Nurture the samurai within: teach children the ways of Bushido codes such as Justice,Courage,Compassion,Respect,Integrity,Honor,Loyalty and Self-control leading their path.This triad of philosophies will guide them to lead lives filled with purpose, balance, and wisdom, ready to make a positive impact in the world.”

 

Q7) Finally as a Children’s book writer what are the several qualities you feel that a child should incur to become a better human being . And what role can teachers play to make that happen .

Ans As a children’s book writer, I believe several qualities are essential for a child to become a better human being: empathy, resilience, curiosity, creativity, and kindness. Growing up surrounded by teachers—my father and grandparents—I learned firsthand the importance of these qualities in shaping character. Teachers play a crucial role in nurturing these traits by creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, fostering empathy through understanding others’ perspectives, encouraging curiosity and creativity, and teaching resilience in the face of challenges.By instilling these values early on, educators worldwide can empower children to grow into compassionate, resilient, and well-rounded individuals, contributing positively to society around the world.