A New Shine! Showcase: Payam Sudhakaran

Each week (or so...) I select another member of our group to showcase on our site by making them a "Feature". This means that one of their works (I choose) will be shared with everyone along with a bio. Through this showcase, I hope you will learn something new about our SHINE members as well as support their creative efforts.  If you would like to be featured it's easy: Join SHINE! And then let me know you want to be featured.     

This weekend we say goodbye to  I am Magi - Nicholas is ignoring the bumble bee on his way to you.  Join me in welcoming  Payam Sudhakaran as our latest SHINE! Showcase.  

 Payam was born in a remote village in the valley of Western Ghats in Kerala, southern state of India. His father was a farmer and ran a small business. Even so, the economical condition was so bad that Payam could not even have three square meals a day.

When Payam was very young, he lost his father and life became more miserable.  He told me that, “My troubled childhood left an indelible mark on my psyche.” He says that as a result he became more dedicated in his life. Although he ran away from home three times as a child but always returned home.

Despite many difficulties, he managed to complete his education and then begin work as a lecturer in several colleges. Nonetheless his life was very undisciplined and his penchant for politics took him to the streets for some time.  After a while, he left politics and went to Hyderabad. He  got married and had one child.   

Mel Gibson is one of Payam’s favorites as is Mohanlal .  We have in common at least two favorite books: Animal Farm and The Metamorphosis as well as two favorite movies:   The Gods Must Be Crazy and Titanic. Who knew? 

Interestingly the name Payam means “message”. And his writings, like that of most writers, send a message of sorts each time he puts pen to paper! I’m not surprised that he started writing poems, articles and stories at a very early age. A journalist, he now works as chief copy editor for The Times of India, the largest circulated English daily in India. 

Even in times of  utter adversity, Payam shares that he is very positive and keeps his faith and continues his journey.  His favorite pastimes include reading, writing and spending time in seclusion.

What would people find surprising about Payam? He loves his blind pet dog Dolly more than anybody else!


I became a child all at once is one of the pieces I enjoyed. I hope you will also!

Best and keep shining,  

Pamela, Editor of    SHINE...THE JOURNAL | Flash Literature, Poetry, Art and Photography!