Hyderabad, August 8, 2026: Renowned academician, author, poet, soft skills trainer and counsellor Dr. Shikha Bhatnagar launched her latest spiritual book at a special event held at the Press Club, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad. The book celebrates the spiritual essence of Shiv-Shakti through legendary Indian narratives and explores the myths, stories and significance associated with the Jyotirlingas and the Ashtadasha Mahashaktipeethas.
The launch event brought together distinguished personalities from academia, industry, the medical profession, media and humanitarian fields, who appreciated the author’s efforts to present India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage to contemporary readers.
Dr. Shikha Bhatnagar, who has authored six books, is an acclaimed academician, author, poet, soft skills trainer and counsellor. She has presented research papers at several national and international conferences and seminars and has participated in numerous workshops. In recognition of her contribution to education, she was conferred the prestigious “Mahadevi Verma Memorial Award-2026.”
The event was attended by Shri N. Sudhakara Rao, former General Manager of Singareni Collieries Company Limited, as the Chief Guest. An accomplished administrator and scholar, he had served as Principal of Singareni Polytechnic College, which was adjudged the “Best Polytechnic College in Telangana” in 2017. He has also authored 14 technical papers presented at national and international seminars.
Dr. (Hon.) Yogesh Raj Srivastava, pioneer of blood donation campaigns in India, social reformer and philanthropist, attended as Guest of Honour. A recipient of the prestigious Godfrey Phillips Bravery Award and an honorary doctorate for his humanitarian work, Dr. Yogesh spoke about India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage and emphasised the need to create greater awareness about the country’s priceless legacy for the benefit of society.
Prof. Chetan Srivastava, Professor at the School of Management Studies, University of Hyderabad and former Director of the Office for International Affairs, University of Hyderabad, was also present. He has received several honours, including the Academician Excellence Award 2024-25, HMA, MTC Global Outstanding Management Teacher Award-2019, AGBA USA Distinguished Global Scholar and Distinguished Alumni Award.
Renowned Hyderabad-based dermatologist Dr. Mukesh Raj graced the occasion as a Special Guest of Honour. He congratulated Dr. Bhatnagar on the new publication and expressed hope that she would continue to produce more creative works.
Shri Atul Kumar Sinha, former General Manager, Bank of Baroda, senior journalist and eminent writer, spoke about the significance of the Jyotirlingas and the spiritual importance of the month of Shravan.
Shri GanaShankar, retired Personnel Officer and media professional with Singareni Collieries Company Limited, appreciated the author’s efforts and expressed hope that she would continue to bring out more such works in the future.
The book seeks to connect readers with the timeless narratives surrounding the 12 Jyotirlingas and the 18 Mahashaktipeethas, while highlighting their deeper place in Indian spirituality, mythology and cultural consciousness. By bringing these stories together in an accessible format, the book aims to introduce India’s spiritual traditions to a wider audience, including readers interested in mythology, cultural heritage and spiritual literature.
The book is available in multiple formats and across various platforms, making it accessible to readers in India and abroad.
Renowned academician, author, poet, soft skills trainer and counsellor Dr. Shikha Bhatnagar launched her latest spiritual book at a special event held at the Press Club, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad. The book celebrates the spiritual essence of Shiv-Shakti through legendary Indian… pic.twitter.com/H86FrpehSV
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