In the realm of literature, some authors stand out not only for their prolific output but also for the sheer breadth of their creative endeavors. V. Shruti Devi is one such luminary, whose diverse body of work spans across genres and themes, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape. In this author spotlight, we delve into Devi’s remarkable journey as a writer, advocate, politician, and poet, celebrating her multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to storytelling.
Born and raised in India, V. Shruti Devi embarked on a journey of intellectual exploration from a young age, fueled by a passion for literature, law, and social justice. Armed with an LL.B. degree from Delhi University and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Environmental Law from WWF-India, Devi embarked on a career as an Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, where she tirelessly championed the rights of marginalized communities and advocated for sustainable development and biodiversity.
V. Shruti Devi’s foray into writing a full-length non-fiction book was with her 2018 publication, Earth Republic: Chatter from the Capital’s Cauldron (and Beyond), a captivating exploration of environmental issues and social commentary. This was followed by Spirit of The Constitution, a retrospective travelogue that offered readers a glimpse into her experiences as an India Visiting Environmental Law Fellow to the USA in 1998. Through her meticulous attention to detail and scholarly insights, Devi’s writing transcends the boundaries of traditional travel writing, offering readers a nuanced exploration of law, politics, and culture.
In addition to her non-fiction works, Devi has also ventured into the realm of fiction and poetry, showcasing the breadth of her literary talent. Her short fable, Creatures of the Current, and environmental fiction, Deep Wood Trance, demonstrate her ability to weave captivating narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level. Meanwhile, her poetry collection, Ad Altiora Nitimur, published via Notion Press, offers readers a glimpse into the depths of her soul, exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition with lyrical grace and emotional depth.
Beyond her literary pursuits, Devi’s commitment to social justice and public service is evident in her involvement with the Indian National Congress party, where she has risen through the ranks through field-level work, election-time campaigns, and central-level pro bono legal advisory work. As a parliamentary candidate fielded by her party in Andhra Pradesh in 2019, Devi continues to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities and the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage.
In her capacity as an Independent Legal Consultant, Devi has worked on several policy documents and contributed to chapters in non-fiction books pertaining to economics and environment. Her editorial work on the newsletter, NBSAP NEWS, for a Government of India – UNDP project, further underscores her commitment to advancing sustainable development and environmental conservation.
As an active presence on social media and a frequent contributor to print and online publications, Devi’s voice resonates far beyond the confines of the written page, inspiring readers to engage with issues of social justice, environmental conservation, and human rights. Through her writing, advocacy, and public service, V. Shruti Devi continues to leave an indelible mark on the literary and social landscape, reminding us of the transformative power of words to effect positive change in the world.
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