Mani Rao, a prolific writer, has authored twelve poetry collections and translated Sanskrit works, including those of Kalidasa, the Bhagavad Gita, and the tantric hymn Saundarya Lahari. Her anthropological study, “Living Mantra: Mantra, Deity and Visionary Experience Today,” explores mantra practices. Rao’s poems, translated into multiple languages, have appeared in prestigious literary journals and anthologies worldwide. As a visiting fellow at the Iowa International Writing Program, she earned acclaim. Rao co-founded OutLoud, a poetry-reading group in Hong Kong, and contributed to RTHK Radio 4. With a background in advertising and television, she held leadership roles in Star (TV) Group Ltd. In addition, Rao participated in various international literature festivals, showcasing her global literary influence.