Women Who Inspire: Finding Stillness in the Stitch with Sudha

Lately, life feels like a never-ending cycle of tasks and in the midst of the mundane, how do you escape?
While there are many ways to cope, we’re here to suggest a simple remedy: Art.
As the saying goes, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” If you’ve been looking for a sign to start, this is it.
Featuring: Mrs. Sudha Suriyanarayana
Welcome to the first feature in our "Women Who Inspire" series. Today, we’re sharing the story of Mrs. Sudha Suriyanarayana, a woman who proves that art, in any form, is a gateway to peace, a vital tool for stress management, and a powerful way to keep the mind active.
Mrs. Sudha is a woman who wears many hats. Hailing from a family of bankers and married to A.J. Suriyanarayana (of the founding family of Karur Vysya Bank (KVB)), she is a dedicated mother to two boys. But above and beyond her daily roles, Sudha is a passionate crochet and oil painting artist.
The Power of the Stitch
When we asked her about her craft, Sudha shared how crochet changed her entire outlook.
“It increased my productivity,” she explains. “I started handling my tasks with ease because I was able to plan better in advance.”
Paradoxically, by slowing down with her crochet needles, she found she actually had more time for other joys, like reading. She also shared that because the craft is rooted in arithmetic and precise calculation, her stress levels dropped, leaving her mind clear, focused, and refreshed.
Keeping the Connection Alive
We asked Sudha the question every busy woman wants to know: How do you manage it all and still find time for your art?
Her secret? Planning.
“A little planning goes a long way,” she says. “But on the days when I truly have no time at all to pick up my needles or my paintbrush, I stay connected in my thoughts. I imagine myself in front of the canvas or with my yarn and I keep the connection alive in my mind.”
A Simple Advice: Just Start
For those looking for a break from the cycle of chores, Sudha’s advice is simple: Don’t overthink it. “Give art a chance. Whatever form it takes, just give it a try.”
She also highlights the power of community. When you surround yourself with others who share your passion, inspiration follows naturally. If you've been hesitant to join a WhatsApp group, a Facebook community or attend a local meetup, consider this your sign to just do it.
Join Our Community
At its core, this series is about building a community of art-driven women who want to navigate life with more ease. If you love art and are searching for a group to join, you are more than welcome to join our community on WhatsApp
Come find your creative outlet, and remember to always, always fill your cup first.