Women’s Empowerment Culturist, Suicide Prevention Expert, and Internationally Acclaimed Authoress Mayaa SH, also known by various monikers including Mayaa Devi, Pushpa “The Fire,” Lady Karl Marx, and Lady Gandhi, is a prominent figure in contemporary literature and a champion of women’s empowerment. Her journey is marked by a deep commitment to social causes, particularly those related to women’s rights, mental health awareness, and gender equality. Mayaa SH, an acclaimed literary voice, recently engaged in an extensive interview discussing her celebrated book “Sahil Kaa Indradhanush”, her experiences at the Chinar Book Festival, her broader literary journey, and the memorable presentation of her work to veteran actor and personality Shri Rakesh Bedi. Below is the comprehensive conversation detailing her creative evolution and contributions to contemporary literature.
The 3rd Edition of the Chinar Book Festival took place from July 18 to 26, 2026, at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, on the banks of Dal Lake. Organized by the National Book Trust (NBT) India and NCPUL, the nine-day event featured free entry, a 10% discount on books, literary sessions, and cultural programs.
To start our conversation, could you tell us what inspired the title and core theme of your book, “Sahil Kaa Indradhanush”?
Mayaa SH: Thank you for having me. Sahil Kaa Indradhanush translates metaphorically to “The Rainbow of the Shore,” capturing the fleeting, beautiful, and vibrant spectrum of human emotions that appear when the turbulent waves of life meet the steady ground of our consciousness. The core theme revolves around resilience, hope, and the vivid shades of human experience that persist even amidst adversity.
How does this book diverge from your previous literary works, and what unique message does it try to convey to its readers?
Mayaa SH: My previous works often explored individual introspection and structured poetic rhythms. Sahil Kaa Indradhanush, however, leans heavily into collective healing and psychological nuances. The unique message it carries is that emotional storms are temporary, and just like a rainbow, joy and clarity often follow the heaviest downpours if we stay anchored.One must never give up on anything .
Taking a look at your broader journey, how did your passion for writing and literature first begin?
Mayaa SH: Writing was always an instinctive escape for me during my formative years. I found that words could articulate feelings that regular conversation often failed to capture. Over time, reading extensive poetry and prose shaped this passion into a disciplined craft, guiding me toward sharing my worldview with a wider audience.
Every author faces roadblocks. What were some of the major challenges you encountered while carving out your space in the literary world?
Mayaa SH: The initial hurdles usually involve finding one’s authentic voice amidst massive noise and securing the right publishing platforms. Balancing creative authenticity with commercial appeal is a tightrope walk. However, consistency, constructive criticism, and an unwavering belief in my storytelling helped me navigate these phases.
Literature festivals play a massive role in bridging the gap between authors and readers. How was your recent experience at the Chinar Book Festival?
Mayaa SH: Participation in the prestigious Chinar Book Festival has been an electrifying and deeply enriching experience. The cultural vibrancy, the intellectual curiosity of the attendees, and the sheer love for physical books created an atmosphere that is hard to replicate. It reminded me why live literary interactions are irreplaceable for an author.
What were some of the most memorable interactions you had with readers and fellow authors at the Book Festivals?
Mayaa SH: One of the most touching moments was meeting a young reader who shared how a particular verse from my book helped her cope with personal loss. Such moments validate the entire creative journey. Interacting with fellow authors also opened up fascinating dialogues on the future of regional and national literature.
Book festivals are evolving rapidly. In your view, what impact do such regional and national book fairs have on the reading habits of the younger generation?
Mayaa SH: They act as physical catalysts. In an age dominated by short-form digital content, book festivals bring youth face-to-face with authors, tactile pages, and deep-dive discussions. This physical immersion reignites curiosity and encourages deeper analytical thinking among students and young adults.
One of the major highlights of your recent journey has been presenting “Sahil Kaa Indradhanush” to the veteran actor Shri Rakesh Bedi. How did that special moment come about?
Mayaa SH: It was an absolute honor. Shri Rakesh Bedi has been a monumental figure in Indian theater and cinema, known for his deep appreciation of art and culture. The presentation came about through mutual artistic appreciation, and sharing my literary creation with someone who understands narrative depth so profoundly was surreal.
What was Shri Rakesh Bedi’s immediate reaction when he received and glanced through “Sahil Kaa Indradhanush”?
Mayaa SH: As communicated ,he was immensely gracious and encouraging. He noted that the thematic essence of the book carries a cinematic and emotional depth. Hearing words of validation from a veteran artist of his stature gave me immense encouragement as a writer.
How do you perceive the intersection of performing arts, like theater and cinema, with contemporary literature?
Mayaa SH: They are two sides of the same coin. Both strive to mirror human society and evoke empathy. While literature relies on text and imagination, performance brings it to life visually and audibly. Writers and actors essentially share the same mission of storytelling and emotional translation.
Looking ahead, how do you plan to evolve your writing style in your upcoming literary projects?
Mayaa SH: I want to experiment more with narrative non-fiction and collaborative anthologies. The goal is to push linguistic boundaries and explore complex socio-cultural themes while maintaining the lyrical quality that my readers resonate with.
Finally, what is your message for budding writers and poets who look up to your journey and wish to publish their own works?
Mayaa SH: My recommendation is simple: Write for yourself first, and refine your Craft relentlessly. Do not rush the process of publication. Build a thick skin against rejections, stay authentic to your unique voice, and remember that every great writer was once a beginner struggling to find the right words.
Mayaa SH, also known by various titles such as Mayaa Devi, Mayaa Tai, and Lady Gandhi of the 21st century, is a prominent figure in contemporary Indian literature and women’s empowerment. She has gained recognition as a multi-award-winning author, podcaster, and social activist. Her work primarily focuses on themes of feminism, gender equality, and mental health awareness.Mayaa SH’s literary work is deeply rooted in her commitment to women’s empowerment and social justice, with her books serving as platforms to address critical issues and inspire change. Mayaa SH’s work, while not explicitly focused on Kashmiri culture, is deeply rooted in themes that resonate with the region’s historical and contemporary experiences. Her focus on women’s empowerment, identity, and the impact of societal pressures aligns with the challenges and resilience seen in Kashmir. Born into an army family and being a Kashmiri Pandit herself, she is very much connected to the roots of Kashmir, and this book festival is personally very close to her heart and emotions. She is a “women empowerment Culturist” and a “globally acclaimed literary genius”. Her work emphasises self-belief, economic independence, and social equality for women. She advocates for creating an environment where women can exercise their rights and achieve equality in all aspects of life. This focus on empowerment and challenging societal norms is relevant to Kashmir, where women have faced unique challenges due to conflict and social structures.Mayaa SH’s motivation for writing stems from a deep-seated desire to empower women and advocate for their rights. She views women’s empowerment as essential for societal progress and aims to create a world where women have equal rights and opportunities. Her writings challenge societal norms, promote mental health awareness, and advocate for legal reforms. She believes in promoting women’s self-worth and their ability to make their own choices. The inspiration behind these books is to empower readers, especially women, and inspire them to learn from their life experiences. These books are designed to help readers recognise their inner strength, recover from sorrow, and cultivate a positive mindset. The books emphasise the transformative potential of learning from experiences and encourage readers to find ways to overcome challenges and find meaning in life. These books are meant to inspire all individuals, irrespective of their gender, to believe in their dreams and overcome challenges, particularly those related to self-doubt and loss of confidence.
The Chinar Book Festival, held in Srinagar, is a significant event for promoting literature and culture in the region. The festival features a wide array of books in various languages and offers opportunities for readers to engage with authors and participate in literary programs. The festival aims to promote the tradition of book reading and encourage youth to embrace knowledge and traditional wisdom.
About The Author
Mayaa SH, also known by various monikers, is a prominent figure in contemporary literature and a champion of women’s empowerment. Her work is deeply rooted in the context of Indian feminism and focuses on gender equality, mental health awareness, and challenging societal norms.
Mayaa SH views women’s empowerment and gender equality as essential for societal progress. She advocates for creating a society where women have equal rights and opportunities. Her approach involves:
Ideology and Approach:
Challenging Societal Norms:
She actively challenges societal norms that perpetuate inequality
Promoting Mental Health Awareness:
She emphasises mental health awareness, particularly focusing on suicide prevention and addressing mental health challenges among women and marginalised communities.
Advocating for Legal Reforms:
She advocates for legal reforms that prioritize women’s rights, including reforms in matrimonial law and the criminalization of marital rape.
Promoting Education:
She highlights the importance of education as a tool for women’s progress and upliftment.
Combating Violence and Discrimination:
She campaigns for the elimination of gender-based violence and discrimination.
Promoting Self-Worth:
She promotes women’s self-worth and their ability to make their own choices.
Mayaa SH’s Vision:
Mayaa SH’s ideology is characterised by self-assertion and empowerment, encouraging women to break free from social norms and assert their independence. Her approach to feminism is inclusive and accessible, emphasising that feminism is about gender equality. She uses simple language and multiple idioms to communicate feminist concepts to a diverse group of people.
Mayaa SH has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work, solidifying her position as a leading figure in literature and activism. Her work has inspired countless individuals to challenge societal norms and embrace progressive change. She has been recognised by several international organisations and foundations, including the United Nations, for her contributions.
Mayaa SH writes to champion the cause of gender equality, women’s rights, and neutrality, and to inspire readers to recognise their inner strength and overcome challenges. Her books, “Satya: Ek Soch” and “Khushnoor: Travelling Beyond Boundaries,” serve as tools to promote resilience, self-reflection, and the pursuit of personal growth. Her work consistently emphasises the importance of women’s empowerment as a cornerstone for societal progress.
Mayaa SH is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality, viewing them as essential for societal progress. Her work aims to promote women’s self-worth, their ability to determine their own choices, and their right to influence social change. She challenges societal norms that perpetuate inequality and advocates for a society where women have equal rights and opportunities. Her writings address issues such as gender bias, the gender pay gap, and gender-based violence.
She emphasises the importance of education as a tool for women’s progress and advocates for legal reforms to prioritise women’s rights. Mayaa SH’s work consistently emphasises the importance of women’s empowerment as a cornerstone for societal progress. She advocates for women to have equal rights and opportunities, enabling them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mayaa SH’s emphasis on identity and mental well-being is also relevant. She highlights the need for careful consideration of language because words can significantly impact how identities are perceived and respected in society. The formation of identity is closely linked to mental well-being. Challenges to one’s identity, such as defamation or social exclusion, can lead to emotional distress and psychological harm.
This resonates with the Kashmiri experience, where identity has been a central issue, and the impact of conflict on mental health is significant. Her core themes of women’s empowerment, identity, and mental well-being are highly relevant to the region’s experiences and challenges.
Beyond her writing career, Mayaa SH is widely celebrated as a fierce human rights activist and women empowerment culturist .She is recognized for championing women’s rights, challenging patriarchal norms, and addressing critical issues such as gender discrimination, economic freedom, and social equality. Her advocacy extends into educational initiatives, promoting legal literacy camps to help women understand their rights, and working extensively in suicide prevention and mental health motivation.Her tireless dedication to literature and social service has earned her prestigious accolades, including recognition at state, national, and international levels.
