About Me

Thanks for dropping by! Have a cup of chai, and let’s get acquainted.

I’m Anuradha Sridharan, and I have been a part of the blogging world since 2004. This space is a collection of experiences I’ve gathered over more than two decades—much like a child collecting sea shells on a shore. Just as those shells vary in size, shape, and color, my journey reflects a diverse blend of interests. If I had to describe my life through verbs, it would be: learn, read, write, speak, and cook.

My Professional Journey

For over 15 years, I worked in the software product development space, wearing multiple hats as a database developer, product manager, and product marketer for both startups and large organizations. I hold a BE in Computer Science Engineering and an MBA (PGSEM) from IIM Bangalore. You can view my detailed professional background on my LinkedIn profile.

The Shift to Conscious Eating & Packaged Food Analysis

My journey into healthy eating began when my daughter turned six months old. When family elders insisted I start her on Cerelac, a commercial baby cereal, I realized it tasted exactly like paal payasam (rice kheer) and was heavily loaded with sugar. Thankfully, her system didn't agree with it, which sparked my first major phase of feeding her wholesome, home-cooked meals. As a family, we gradually eliminated packaged junk and prioritized fresh fruits, vegetables, and simple cooking.

By 2017, I noticed an irresponsible trend of food influencers promoting junk foods on social media. Wanting to take a conscious stand, I began decoding food labels to create consumer awareness. To date, I have critically analyzed the ingredients and nutrition facts of around 80 packaged foods (breakfast cereals, health drinks, biscuits, and spreads). You can find the complete review list here.

Aligning Body, Mind, and Intellect

What started in 2012 as an exploration of food's role in my personal well-being eventually expanded into a deeper fascination with holistic wellness, encompassing the circadian rhythm, digital minimalism, and spirituality.

Today, my path is deeply rooted in Indian Knowledge Systems:

Yoga & Scriptures: I am a Yoga practitioner, certified Yoga Instructor and am currently pursuing my M.Sc. in Yoga. My study has naturally transitioned into learning the Bhagavad Gita and other foundational Vedanta scriptures, alongside learning Sanskrit.
Teaching Stotras: Grounded in these traditional roots, I also teach Shlokas and Stotras. You can join me for chanting sessions and deeper insights by heading over to my YouTube channel.
Reading & Speaking: I am an avid non-fiction reader, exploring philosophy, Indian scriptures, behavioral psychology, and marketing. I regularly share detailed notes and takeaways in my Book Reviews section. I also love public speaking and regularly address forums on decoding food labels, dejunking family diets, and product management. You can see my past engagements here.

Over the years, my interest towards learning and sharing about Sanatana Dharma has been kindled, thanks to one of my Gurus, Prof. B Mahadevan. In collaboration with Professor, I have co-authored two books -

The Joy of Oneness - Commentary on Manisha Panchakam of Adi Shankaracharya
Sanatana Dharma in a nutshell

My Core Philosophy

Apart from blogging, the one anchor I have stayed consistent with for over a decade is healthy cooking, which has evolved from a daily necessity into a serious passion.

I firmly believe in simplicity, a frugal lifestyle, and environment-friendly living. My world is completed by my supportive husband, my daughter, and our three cats.

Thank you for reading this far and joining me on this 20+ year journey! If you're new here, feel free to explore my curated Hand-picked articles to see some of the posts I consider most worth your time.

If you'd like to connect and share your thoughts, drop me a note on yogashraddha2024 at gmail dot com