Profile
Maria Chaudhuri, a writer and educator, began her literary journey at New York University, where she specialized in Screenwriting and Feature Writing, complemented by a certification in Corporate Storytelling and Communication. Her academic pursuits culminated in an MFA in Creative Writing with distinction from Goddard College, Vermont.
Chaudhuri’s writing explores the intricate intersections of language, class, gender, and globalism, challenging monolithic cultural narratives and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Her debut memoir, "Beloved Strangers" (Bloomsbury International, 2014), showcases her translingual and transcultural prowess, weaving together diverse cultural threads to create a tapestry of experiences that transcend both linguistic and cultural boundaries. This work garnered critical acclaim, recognized by Vogue as one of the Top Ten Books To Look Out For in 2014 and listed by Reader's Digest as one of 17 Must-Read Memoirs.
Her literary contributions span across prestigious international publications such as Granta, Critical Muslim, Elle Magazine, The Dhaka Tribune, Bengal Lights, Upstart Crows, Golden: Bangladesh at 50, an anthology of short stories and poems, and the Hindustan Times.
Expanding her influence on younger generations, Chaudhuri launched "Nobo" (Ignite Publications, 2023) the first book in a children's series in Bangladesh, which underscores her dedication to using transcultural storytelling as a tool for social change and cultural understanding.
As a faculty member in the MFA-MACC programs at Hong Kong University, Chaudhuri continues to champion diversity in storytelling, encouraging her students to explore their unique cultural voices and linguistic heritages. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of multilingual expression and cross-cultural understanding in contemporary stories.
