First time author Punam Chadha Joseph launched her maiden book of poems titled ‘The Soulful Seeker’ published by Om Books International this week in Mumbai. An ex- advertising and hospitality professional, Punam has run a successful business of artifacts.

The Soulful Seeker is a collection of the author’s thoughts, emotions and feelings written over a period of time and written to appeal to readers across the globe.

While some poems are light and joyful, others are more intense and soul-searching. Like a true artist, Punam has dived into her personal experiences and boldly shared and exposed her internal conflicts and angst. Throughout the book there is a very positive message of acceptance and a constant yearning and desire to achieve dreams. Every reader will undoubtedly identify and connect with the author.

Adding soul to the launch event, beautifully orchestrated acts and recitals brought alive for the audiences present the experiences that Punam’s book of poems offers. Renowned Bollywood celebrities, friends of the author recited the excerpts of their choice from the book while shedding their inhibitions and showing us a side we don’t often get a glimpse of among the glamour and glitz they embody.

“Dilwale” sensation, Kriti Sanon took up a piece titled “Bonding” while Tanvi Azmi of Bajirao Mastani fame recited “My World”. Other stars including Aditi Rao Hydari, Maria Goretti and celebrated author Amish Tripathi also took center stage and brought to life the author’s renditions.

International actor, Kabir Bedi teamed up with violinist Viviene Fernandes and Merlin D'Souza pianist and composer to give voice and harmony to ‘Let’s Rise’, a powerful emotive poem that revisits the 26/11 terror strikes on Mumbai. A standing ovation greeted their rendition.

Kriti Sanon commented “I’ve read a few of the poems from the book and I must say, Bonding is my favorite. The poems strike a personal chord coming with very real and relatable emotions and situations. I am sure the book is going to be a huge hit with people from all walks of life”

Parineeti Chopra commented “The Soulful Seeker is a slice of life. Every person will surely relate to it as it holds up a mirror to everyday life and human emotions. There are many songs to match many moods. But here comes a book of poems for every mood. I wish Punam all the best in her endeavour”

Tanvi Azmi said “Punam’s book of poems refreshingly comes as a welcome change and resonates charmingly with the reader. Each poem is instantly connectable and I’m sure it is going to be a treasure on every poetry lover’s shelf”

Lending her own personal touch, Punam has incorporated many of her sketches in The Soulful Seeker, including the very striking visual on the cover. And the graphic sketches that set the mood for each section of poems, titles of which are: Soul & Self, Love & Longing, Family & Friends, Fears & Frustrations, Happiness & Hope, Despondency & Despair, Ache & Acceptance, Questions & Queries, Benevolence & Belief, Dreams & Desires and Frivolous & Fun

After completing her Bachelor’s in Economics (Honours) from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, Punam Chadha-Joseph joined the prestigious Oberoi School of Hotel Management in Delhi to do her post-graduation. This was followed by a 5-year stint in Food and Beverage and Sales and Marketing at the Hotel Oberoi Towers in Mumbai.

Her journey then took her to the world of Advertising in Account Management, where she spent several years with top agencies like Lintas and Mudra, spearheading campaigns for many prestigious brands.

In the course of her work-life, she met her husband Sabbas Joseph, the Founder-Director of Wizcraft, India’s pioneer Event Management agency. She is the mother of a 21-year-old son Rohan, and a 17-year-old daughter Rhea, both of whom are currently pursuing their academic careers.

Punam is a lover of the arts and has also tried her hand at a successful business of artifacts, called ‘Artifactors’. Her other passions include reading, writing poetry, travelling, hand-crafting jewellery and sewing.

While her travels have taken her to many different and exotic parts of the world, she continues to live and enjoy her life in Mumbai. Her poems however reflect thoughts and emotions that are universal in nature and can appeal to readers across the globe.

‘The Soulful Seeker’ is her first book of poems, and she is ready with another one, especially written for children, based on appreciating and saving the environment. Sketching being a new hobby, she has incorporated many of her sketches in ‘The Soulful Seeker’, including the very striking visual on the cover.