Sushmita Sen quotes Haruki Murakami, shares her favorite books

In a recent Instagram live with her two daughters- Renee and Alisah- former Miss Universe, Sushmita Sen candidly answered questions asked by her fans and followers. Sushmita is known for being one of the most strong-willed and unconventional women of our times - as the former beauty queen, a successful actor, and a single mother of two adopted girls. When asked about what motivates her to have a positive outlook toward life, she said that she loves watching documentaries and inspiring videos. Sushmita also quoted Haruki Murakami's popular saying as she further said "I believe that Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. This is something I have always stood by in my life."

On being asked about her favorite books, Sushmita further revealed that she likes reading spiritual books. "I'm not a very author-driven person; I read different books. Sometimes a book holds me from page one to page last; sometimes my mind goes from the beginning to the middle and end, and sometimes I just read the end," she joked. "I like (reading) spiritual stuff," she added.

Have a look at Sushmita Sen's favorite books here:

(Photo: Sushmita Sen/ Instagram)

The story follows Christine Moore, who at 37 is dealing with burnout. Christine's career and personal life aren't heading anywhere; that's when she meets a gorgeous man on a Harley Davidson on a moonlit night near her house and her life changes forever. This is a story of self-love, self-discovery, and having faith.

Photo: Atria Books

Neale Donald Walsch was going through a low period in his life when he started writing letters to God to vent out his frustrations. But by the time he finished writing the letters, he was moved by the answers he got to his questions. 'Conversations with God' series will guide and help readers to understand themselves and their world for the better.

Photo: Hodder & Stoughton

Published in 1997, Eckhart Tolle's 'The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment' is an international bestseller and it has been translated to over 33 languages. The book introduces readers to the ideas of self-reflection and being in the present moment, to live a happier life.

Photo: Yogi Impressions

Published in 1946, 'Autobiography of a Yogi' is a book that has inspired many celebs and thought influencers across the world including Beatles, Steve Jobs, Virat Kohli, and Sushmita Sen. 'An originative text that tells the story of Paramhansa Yogananda, this book has been revered for its memorable, incisive and instructive teachings. This spiritual autobiography will take you on an incredible journey of Indian mysticism and spirituality and deliver humbling, comforting truths about life and existence,' reads the book's blurb.

Photo: Fingerprint! Publishing

During the Instagram live, Sushmita Sen's daughters - Renee Sen and Alisah Sen also shared their favorite books with the viewers. While Alisah Sen said that she liked the 'Harry Potter' series, Renee said that her favorite book is also 'God on a Harley' by Joan Brady. Renee also candidly added, "But I should read more".

Photo: Sushmita Sen/ Instagram