Internationally acclaimed noted authoress, poetess and social activist Mayaa SH was conferred the National Award “Bharat Gaurav Samman 2026” at a national ceremony ahead of Independence Day for her contributions to literature, women empowerment and social awareness. The award coincides with the launch of her latest book ‘Sanyam’, a collection of quotes ,short story and poems on aspects of life and mindful living.
The prestigious National Award “Bharat Gaurav Samman 2026” is awarded annually to individuals who have made distinguished contributions in the fields of art, literature, education and nation-building. This year, the jury recognized Mayaa SH for her sustained literary work ,women empowerment and grassroots campaigns on literacy, mental health,women’s rights ,suicide prevention and gender equality.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Mayaa SH said the recognition was a responsibility. “This award belongs to every teacher, ASHA worker and every woman who breathes in silence. My work has always been about starting conversations that matter,” she said.
Her new book ‘Sanyam’ was released earlier this week in Hindi edition. “Sanyam” (Composure) is a collection of examples, short motivational quotes, articles, stories, and poems centered on the essence that patience and hope are intertwined in relationships, mutually reinforcing one another. Patience—defined as the ability to pause, reflect, and act at the right moment—finds its grounding in the hope one holds. Together, these qualities form a powerful combination for charting a transformative journey, helping individuals maintain a resilient mindset and avoid losing heart during difficult times. This book is dedicated to those who can learn to view the act of pausing not as a sign of weakness, but as a stepping stone toward self-understanding and preparing for the path ahead. This heightened self-awareness equips individuals for future challenges and empowers them to make decisions aligned with their true goals. Just as “Sanyam” speaks to the art of remaining steady amidst life’s pressing yet essential phases, life’s struggles—which often loom large and test our patience—inherently hold the potential for growth, preparation, and the emergence of new hope. These periods of patience, whether forced by circumstance or consciously chosen, inspire people to introspect, replan, and ultimately discover a new direction and renewed confidence. Written in Hindi, the book emphasizes themes of hope and self-control, while exploring the unique challenges and opportunities for growth that accompany patience. Recognizing that patience is a vital and empowering aspect of life—rather than a weakness—can foster self-compassion and a more balanced perspective.
“Restraint today is not about denial. It is about choosing what is right at the right time. That is the core message of Sanyam”, Mayaa SH told reporters at the book launch.
Literary critics have described the book as “timely” and “relevant for young readers”. Several schools and colleges in Maharashtra have expressed interest in including excerpts from ‘Sanyam’ in their value-education curriculum.
Mayaa SH, who has previously been recognized for her writing and activism, said she plans to take ‘Sanyam’ to colleges, panchayats and corporate forums through reading and dialogue sessions.
Organizers of the prestigious National Award “Bharat Gaurav Samman 2026” said Mayaa SH’s work reflects “The spirit of Service and Self-discipline that the award seeks to honour.”
With the new book and national recognition, Mayaa SH continues to position literature as a tool for social change.
Mayaa SH is an internationally acclaimed Indian author, essayist, and thinker who has gained immense recognition for her extensive and impactful literary contributions .She has authored more than fourteen solo books and co-authored over two hundred and fifty plus anthologies while being aligned with more than eighty six publication houses. Her prominent works—including her debut award-winning poem “The Candle In The Wind” (2021) and her critically acclaimed book Swayam—focus heavily on realistic themes, self-belief, identity, and personal motivation . Her self-help books and contemporary prose have resonated globally, helping readers navigate stress and rediscover hope.
