From the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the bustling tech corridors of San Francisco, Shriya Pilgaonkar has worn many hats. Today, she stands as a multifaceted personality, celebrated not only for her prowess in writing but also for her contributions to film, education, and activism.
Born on May 29, 1978, in Mumbai, India, Shriya's early life was imprinted with cinematic hues. Her father, philanthropist Shravan Kanade, and her mother, Shobhini Pilgaonkar, a revered figure in Marathi cinema, shaped her outlook towards art and society. Despite the early loss of her father, Shriya’s determination only grew stronger. This tenacity was evident when she championed her family's ancestral land rights, battling the cumbersome legal system after completing her law degree from Bombay University in 2008.
But it wasn’t just the world of cinema and law where Shriya left her mark. From a tender age, writing was her solace. Her earliest narratives, whimsical tales like that of a lightbulb yearning to consume holiday lights, reflected her unique imagination. This passion evolved during her college days at Rutgers University, where she embraced blogging, a medium that allowed her to share her introspections with a wider audience. Armed with a psychology degree, an English minor, and a Certificate of Advanced Composition, Shriya's academic journey culminated in her contributing to the realm of educational technology in San Francisco.
Today, she juggles roles as a Content Strategist, Publications Editor, and an advocate for women veterans. Her lectures on gender bias in children's literature, participation in discussions on women's literary evolution, and interviews on diverse topics, such as the impact of gender bias in the graphic novel industry, reflect her commitment to fostering inclusivity and awareness. Furthermore, her collaborations with notable personalities like David Brin at events like the National Conference of College Composition and Communication underscore her growing influence.
Shriya’s written works, which often blend magical realism, fantasy, and science fiction, resonate with many. Described by one of her mentors as having a "mainstream style but unconventional form," her books such as The Muse on Vacation and The Muse's Guide to Reading Fiction have captivated readers globally. Her frequent interactions at platforms like the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) reinforce her commitment to the craft.
At the heart of her narrative is an unyielding spirit. From confronting childhood traumas, like the unexpected riots in Mumbai that she and her mother narrowly escaped, to drawing inspiration from her mother’s storied career at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Shriya’s journey is a testament to resilience.
As she continues to inspire, both in her writings and her diverse roles, Shriya remains accessible to those keen on understanding the art of writing. Her belief in self-coaching, self-love, and the transformative power of storytelling remains the cornerstone of her narrative. And as she rightly professes, with love and effort, one can indeed achieve anything they set their heart upon.
For budding writers and enthusiasts, Shriya's insights and experiences are frequently shared on her blog, ShriyaPilgaonkar.com. To reach out, she can be contacted at ShriyaPilgaonkar@gmail.com or (601) 202-2832.
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