Anita Poonam, fondly known by her pen name “Shabnam,” a former Deputy Secretary (Law) with the Government of Haryana, she balanced a demanding legal career with her love for literature. Her journey as a writer began in the 1980s with her debut poetry collection, Alfaaz Bolte Hain (1989), which was warmly received and personally appreciated by the Vice Chancellor of Punjabi University, Patiala. His remark was that ghazal writing was traditionally the domain of Ustaads, yet she achieved mastery in her twenties was both humbling and inspiring for the young poet. Though her literary pursuits paused as she dedicated herself to law, her passion for writing eventually re-emerged with even greater brilliance.
In 2025, her debut collection found renewed recognition when it won the International Excellence Award from Exceller Books, reaffirming that her words had withstood the test of time. Her second book, Khamosh Guftgu(2025), published by Book Leaf Publishing House, explored themes of love, silence, and resilience. The collection earned her a nomination for the prestigious 21st Century Emily Dickinson Award, placing her firmly among the most promising contemporary literary voices.
Her growing influence was further recognized through the “National Author Award” and contributions to acclaimed anthologies such as “Rooh Ke Aayine”, “Be Limitless”, “Kuch Dil Ne Kaha”, “Petals 2025”, “Petals of Every Shade”, “Sindhoor and Beyond”, “She Raises India Shines”, and “Spellbound Pen”. Many of these works were showcased at the 2025 World Book Fair in New Delhi and are available globally on Amazon.
Anita’s creative spirit has also reached audiences beyond the written page. In April 2025, she appeared on Doordarshan Chandigarh’s ‘Sahitya Srijan’, where she shared her unique journey through law and literature. She was honored among the Top Emerging Writers of India and listed in the Top 100 Writers of the Best Pensmith Award, achievements that solidified her reputation as a powerful voice in Indian poetry. She has also been featured in one of the popular ‘Namya Magazine ‘.
Her most recent work, ‘Lamhe’, is a tender collection of poetry that captures fleeting yet timeless human experiences. With simplicity and emotional depth, it explores love, longing, silence, and hope, offering readers both comfort and inspiration. Each poem invites reflection on the unnoticed moments that shape our lives, weaving a tapestry of memory, struggle, and resilience.
Published by Namya Foundation, ‘Lamhe’ is not just a book of poems but a mirror of the human spirit—reminding us that even the smallest moments can hold the greatest meaning.
Amazon link –https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0FR4LQ5ZG
