Shailja Chaturvedi OAM

Writer | Medical Professional | Poet | Humanitarian

Shailja Chaturvedi OAM is a distinguished writer and healthcare professional who has dedicated her life to service, storytelling, and social change. Born and raised in India, she has lived in Australia for over five decades, gracefully blending two rich cultural identities in both her work and her worldview.

With a strong medical background, Shailja spent many years in the healthcare sector, where she witnessed firsthand the emotional and physical struggles of individuals and families. These experiences, combined with a lifelong love for reading and poetry, naturally evolved into her unique voice as a writer—one that is empathetic, unflinching, and deeply human.

Her Literary Journey

Her latest novel, A Deranged Mind, showcases her signature blend of sensitivity and realism. It deals with the complex emotional consequences of trauma, the manipulation of mental health narratives, and the resilience that lives quietly in the shadows.

Her previous works, Raising a Child and The Global Citizen of India, continue to empower readers—from concerned parents to conscious citizens—and serve as valuable tools for awareness and action.

Recognized Service

Her unwavering dedication to community welfare—especially in the realm of children’s health—has been nationally recognized. She is the proud recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), awarded for her outstanding contributions to society.

One of her most passionate causes has been her work with the ChildCan Care Foundation in India. Through this platform, she has tirelessly advocated for the needs of children battling cancer in the Poorvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh, an area often overlooked in mainstream health outreach.

A Bilingual Voice

Shailja writes in both Hindi and English, and her publications span a wide range of topics—from medical essays and social reflections to fictional narratives and poetry. She has published four books and many articles, each reflecting her deep understanding of the human condition and a strong desire to amplify unheard voices.

A Voice That Speaks for Many

In every book she writes, Shailja brings together her professional insight and personal empathy to challenge norms, question silences, and give voice to those who often remain unheard.

She believes that storytelling has the power to heal, inform, and transform—and her body of work is a testament to this belief.