DELHI

Bal Sahitya Puraskar Presented

Fourth Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar for 2013 were presented to twenty four writers in Indian languages recognised by the Akademi in a grand function held on 15 November 2013 at Goa State Museum Auditorium, Panaji, Goa

ahitya Akademi held its Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2013 nine books of short stories, two of poetry, two of essays, SPresentation ceremony on 15 November 2013, at Goa and eight writers for their total contribution to children State Museum Auditorium, Panaji, Goa. literature have won the Bal Sahitya Puraskar this year. He The three day event included the ‘Presentation of Bal further said that we must welcome and encourage literature Sahitya Puraskar’, ‘Writers Meet’ and a ‘Symposium on for children, for it opens up doors to the many worlds Writing’ for Children; The New Challenges’ on 17 November. that are not known to the children. While reading or being Goa State Museum Auditorium was bustling with the read by somebody, the child listens to, naturally attempts gathering of awardees, guests, the lovers of literature from to visualize using his/her imagination, and later remembers the city of Goa. Awardees were seated on the dias in a as well. So, quite obviously the entire activity proves to beautiful array. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi be a creative experience for them. And the process helps welcomed the gathering. In his welcome address, he highlighted children develop linguistic skills – may it be in any form a vital point despite a vast body of children’s literature of literature, poetry, fable, story, he said. available to-day, still there is a dearth for good literature Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President, Sahitya Akademi, for children. In a country like ours with rich heritage of in his presidential address while congratulating all the award multiple cultures and languages, most ancient and modern winning writers, he said that no genuine writer would write the scenario of the production of children’s literature is for an award, particularly the writers who write for children. far from satisfaction. Sahitya Akademi came forward to The writer genuinely attempt to educate and to impart encourage best of literature for children by instituting Bal wisdom to the new generation. In the domain of creative Sahitya Puraskar from 2010. He informed the audience that writing, writing for children is one of the most difficult

Manoj Das, the chief guest delivering his address and the awardees in an array

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 1 Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari delivering presidential address challenges to face. We are bound to congratulate the writers, this literature, a child reader is expected to come up with who took up the challenges and handled them most creatively. a series of questions and the deep cautions that allow opting After the presidential address, the awards were given for the good over evil, he said. away to the winners by the President of the Akademi. At the ‘Writers’ Meet’ held on 16 November 2013, Manoj Das, distinguished Oriya and English writer and Tosha Probha Kalita, the Bal Sahitya Award 2013 winner the chief guest offered his humble indebtedness to the in Assamese said, “At my early years, the environment and award-winning creative souls writing for children with deep the nature were my educators. The lullabies and devotional concern and welfare. While highlighting the qualities of sung by women, the wedding songs, the devotional hymns, vibrant children literature available today, Sri Das said, “What the voice of my mother and my grandmother inspired strikes us is innocence, colourfulness, imagination, curiosity me. Another positive influence on me as a writer was my and love for the strange and the morale”. Having read happy childhood.”

Manoj Das presenting a bouquet to Telugu awardee President giving award to the Kannada award winner Dokala Sujatha Devi H.S. Venkatesha Murthy

2 DELHI K. Sreenivasarao at the Writers’ Meet Malayalam awardee Sumangala (Leela Nambudripad) sharing her writing experience Jatindra Nath Swargiary, the award Marathi, said that one should involve are very knowledgeable with their winner in Bodo said that he was inspired children to narrate stories and sing songs. modern information kits especially in by prominent writers and novelists like This involvement encourages and the field of science. Dharanidhar Wary who is also a critic enthuses them to mimic and imitate not Asad Raza, the award-winner in and short story writer in his language. only the pronunciation but also the Urdu said that his aim is not only to Noted composer and writer of limerick gesticulations and facial expressions. entertain but also to educate children in Bodo Nandeswar Boro also This gives them an intimate joy of so that they may become broad minded immensely inspired him in his early writing career. Children’s stories should be value based, and should have Dhirendra Kumar Jha, the Maithili awardee said that he chose a science an underlying lesson igniting a spark of goodness theme for his book and the only book Sumangala in Maithili to his credit that consists a collection of forty three short essays togetherness and participatory activity. Indian citizens with rational and scientific on the topics related to natural science, Saridharam Hansda, the award attitude towards life. He also tries to ecology, environment, pollution, and winner in Santail informed that he was educate children to respect the diversity transportation and information inspired by two great poets in his of India. technology. language, Kabi Guru Sadhu Ramchand Sumangla, the Malayalam awardee Murmu and Pandit Raghunath Murmu. said that she strongly believes that Vasudev Nirmal, the Sindhi awardee, children’s stories should be value based, while narrating his experience as writer and should have an underlying lesson for children, he said that he also wrote igniting a spark of goodness. poems about children, their mannerism, Raghu Leishangthem, the Manipuri their use of words, about their pets, awardee opined that the children dolls and toys etc. literature must be supported by E.S. Hariharan (Revathi), the Tamil illustrations. awardee, said that writing for the present Anant Bhave, the awardee in day children is a herculean task as they

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 3 Writing for Children: New Challenges writer-participants will scholarly discuss and assure all of us a great future for A national symposium on Writing for Children: New Challenges to literature for children.” deliberate on the issues posing challenges for the writers for children Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President, Sahitya Akademi, in his in the globalised world where our ethinic cultures and mores are presidential address said that having waning day by day. Writers from all over the nation were invited heard the writers speaking at the to present their views in the symposium ‘Writers Meet’ came across so many challenges the literature for children n the symposium held on the topic said children certainly perceive such things puts forth before the writers. The I“Writing for Children: New in their own way and with a little more language should be very simple, easy Challenges” on 17 November 2013 as sensitive mind although their expression to comprehend in children literature. the concluding part of the Bal Sahitya is limited. Unlike the earlier generations On the contrary, the mind that achieves Puraskar presentation programme at children today have innumerable options this simplicity of language is enigmatic. the same venue, K. Sreenivasarao, of entertainment, of the ways to seek It is not easy to make expression simple. Secretary, Sahitya Akademi, who opened wisdom and knowledge, of the ways Literature for children always teaches up the symposium with his welcomed to acquire language, the arts, science. But great responsibility as it carries address, stated that this symposium it is high time we must think over the knowledge and wisdom in a very simple would discuss so many issues affecting appropriateness of these options and language. our socio-cultural, economic life, and their aggressive marketing techniques, Bansi Kaul, an eminent theatre challenges for our identity, may it be and their attempts to overpower literary persona, in his inaugural address, said linguistic or cultural or social. And these art.” He further said, “It is essentially that unfortunately there is hardly any issues get reflected in our literature. needed to discuss and document what playwright who writes plays especially These issues, “I believe, influence challenges the writers who write for for children and it is unfortunate too children’s psyche, not in the way they children face to create literature for the that parents think of their children influence the mind of elders”. He further children of the day. I am sure that the as their support in their old age. This

Pundalik Naik, the chief guest delivering his address. L-R: K. Sreenivasarao, Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari and Bansi Kaul

4 DELHI Damodar Mauzo delivering his concluding speech in the Children’s Poets’ Meet infact restricts the growth of children. The second session was chaired by chaired by Prakash Manu. Vinod Gandhi Instead of depriving them we must Tanaji Halarnkar, Convenor, Konkani of Gujarati, Anand V. Patil of Kannada, understand and encourage their natural Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Baba Bharat Naik of Konkani, Sarabjit Singh inclination. Bhand (Marathi) in his paper said that Bedi of Punjabi, Dindayal Sharma of Pundalik Naik, distinguished every writer should try his hand at Rajasthani and Nazir Fatehpuri of Urdu Konkani writer, was the chief guest writing for children as a creative challenge. recited their poems for children. Their of the seminar, who in his address said Divik Ramesh (Hindi) in his paper said poems were very well appreciated by that it is disgusting that the popular that instead of keeping on discussing the audience. media like cinema seems to be absolutely problems that media poses, we must Finally, Damodar Mauzo, eminent neglecting children. He further said that the writer needs to keep alive the child The writer needs to keep alive the child in him in order in him in order to write for children. to write for children The first session was chaired by Pundalik Naik Devika Rangachari. Deepa Agarwal (English) in her paper emphasized that the media should be vary of using bad believe in our mighty tradition of Konkani writer, made concluding language in cartoon serials. These serials children literature. We have for instance remarks. lack variety and imagination. Santanu Panchatantra where inanimate become Tamuly through his paper said that the animate and it is found that this kind children’s literature should aim at of imagination endeavour children. K. encouraging extra curricular activities Shreekumar (Malayalam) in his paper of a child. Sudha G. Kharangate said that the current scenario of children (Konkani), categorized Konkani literature in Malayalam is not satisfactory. literature for children in three age groups This literature is nearly stuffed with viz. 4-8, 8-12, 12-16 in terms of growing advices and they should instead work mind of children and professed that on readability of literature. children literature should be in The third session was meant for accordance with this category. recitation of poem for children, and was

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 5 Sahitya Akademi Fellowship Presented to Sitakanta Mahapatra

Sitakant Mahapatra is such a rare talent who respects the past, present and future

ahitya Akademi conferred its SFellowship, the Akademi’s highest literary honour, on eminent litterateur Sitakant Mahapatra on 14 December 2013 at a special function presided over by its President Viswanath Prasad Tiwari at IDCOL auditorium, Bhubaneswar. He was presented with a shawl, a citation and a plaque as the mark of honour. Sitakant Mahapatra a veteran Odia poet critic and scholar is also known for his contribution to the field of tribal poetry. He has worked extensively to connect the gaps between tribal primitive, ritual based societies and the efforts of the modern state to initiate development programmes for them. Sri Mahapatra, born in 1937, is at his best while portraying Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President Sahitya Akademi, presenting the the ethos of Odishan tradition. His is Fellowship plaque to Sitakant Mahapatra one of the best-known names in Indian Literature today. The people of Odisha appear in his poetry as a compassionate, as well as for Odia language and literature. to him. He himself is nature and its simple, and innocent community. Dedicating the Fellowship to ‘Kavyaguru’ rhythms are within him. “I am deeply Speaking on the occasion, Akademi’s Jagannth Das and saint poet Bhima in love with life and know the myriad President Viswanath Prasad Tiwari said Bhoi, Sri Mohapatra said reading the ways my love for it has tried to express that poets are respected for their ability Bhagabata in the morning and listening itself. I am the flowing river, the to immortalise a place, object or person to Bhima Bhoi’s bhajans in the evening meditating mountain and all human who through their words. The future in childhood helped him become a poet. suffer. I have admired their courage in generations would see the world through “The fervour for poetry was instilled facing, suffering and not to turn back the picture painted by the poets today, in him by my father. He had advised on life,” he said. He said that he believed he added. Describing Sri Mahapatra as me to simply write, till my hands hurt,” that he still had a child in him and that a poet of myth, tradition and culture, said Sri Mahapatra. He also added that he would stop writing poems only when he added that Sri Sitakant has a deep his father’s mild response to his first the child inside him dies. Sri Mahapatra love for his language. His poetry reflects poem inspired him to improve. Poetry, also spelt out his relationship with words a generous amount of Odia life style. he said, is an exercise in knowing oneself and language by quoting the lines from Sri Mahapatra is such a rare talent who and his times and that is what he has his own poem “Words”. “My words respects past, present and future. He also tried to do all his life. “Words are at are the confused nightingale’s cry described Sri Sitakant as a true Indian. the heart of poetry and that is why I embossed on the earth’s sun-baked face”. In his acceptance speech, Sri Mohapatra have always laid emphasis on the purity Later, a ‘Samvad’ programme was held said the Fellowship by Sahitya Akademi of language in all my writing,” he said. wherein Prafulla Mohanty, Basanta was an honour to his literary creations Nature for him, is not a separate entity Kumar Panda and Aparna Mohanty

6 DELHI discussed different dimensions of him as a mythographer of time. He in honour of the Fellow. Mohapatra’s poetry. discussed the translations of Sri Rotations of Unending Times, the English Dr Mohanty described Sri Mahapatra Mahapatra’s creations. Aparna Mohanty translation of Mohapatra’s Odia book as poet of relationship and a poet of discussed the mystic consciousness of translated by Sura P. Rath and Mark silence. He never writes about religion, his poetry collections. Hallperin, was released on the occasion. but Lord Krishna is always the metaphor Earlier, K. Srinivasarao, Secretary, An Odia book on Sitakanta Mahapatra’s in his poetry. He often talks about the Sahitya Akademi, delivered the welcome creations by Sanghamitra Mishra and feelings of the society. Basant Kumar address and said that this rare honour Ranjita Nayak was also released. Panda said that Sitakant Mahapatra is is reserved for ‘the immortals of Gourahari Das, Convenor of the the representative of middle aged literature’ and limited to 21 only at any Odia Advisory Council of the Akademi metaphorical poets. He also described given time. He also read out the citation proposed the vote of thanks at the end.

Literary Forum Luz Elena Sepulveda Jimenez A Columbian Poet ahitya Akademi organized a ‘Literary Forum’ Son 3 October 2013 at Akademi’s Conference Hall, New Delhi where the Columbian poet, Luz Elena Sepulveda Jimenez read out original Columbian poems from her poetry collection. K. Satchidanandan, eminent Malayalam and English poet, read out their English translation. Introducing the poet to the audience, Gitanjali Chatterjee, Deputy Secretary, Sahitya Akademi, spoke briefly about Luz Elena, saying that her literary career started in 1980. Since then she has published several volumes of her poetry. She said her poems contain elements of spirituality and aesthetic beauty. Ms. Jimenez said in her speech, ‘Columbia was partial to India and she felt that it was a great privilege to recite her poems to the Indian audience as many of her poems contain images Being brought up in an environment where nature of India’. As was evident from her poems and her own with its hills and mountains and its moods were the admittance, she has been strongly impressed by the Indian dominant aspects rather than city life with modern buildings, landscape when she visited India as a traveller some years she was sensitive to the beauties of nature. Most of her ago. She confessed that she doesn’t stifle her curiosity about anything and just expresses her feelings and thoughts, in poems characterise them. She uses rich imagery and tries a simple poetic language which not only rekindle our to depict them vividly like a visual picture. memories about the beautiful places, such as Rajghat, Taj There after followed, a lively discussion on her Mahal, Karni Devi Temple, Bikaner, Rajasthan, Kerala, and poetry which led ultimately to her frank confession that her native country, Columbia. Prof. Satchidanandan observed her ‘love of nature had been an irresistible force which by way of an introduction to her poems: ‘though written accompanied always with the lone traveller like a by a foreigner are Indian, they have a flavour of India’. companion....’

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 7 National Seminar Realism in Indian Fiction

he Akademi organised a “National C. Radhakrishnan, Convenor, Sahitya Akademi and veteran Hindi poet Tseminar on Realism in Indian Fiction” Malayalam Advisory Board, Sahitya while chairing the inaugural session on the occasion of the birth centenary Akademi in his introductory remarks discussed the works of Thakazhi and of Thakazhi Sivashankara Pillai and S.K. shared some commonalities between Pottekatt. He also spoke on the realism Pottekkat in Delhi on 4 and 5 October Thakzhi and Potekatt. Both were in Hindi literature. Quoting the 2013 at Rabindra Bhawan, Sahitya compassionate and honest. They hailed philosophers in the context of realism Akademi, New Delhi. from modest background, struggled their in world literature, Prof. Tiwari said that K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary Sahitya way up. Both were fiction writers and Premchand belonged to idealistic realism Akademi while delivering his welcoming practised paradigm-shift in craft and as he himself discussed about this concept address spoke on the two stalwarts in themes. They were practitioners of of realism. A lot has been written on Malayalam literature. He said that romantic realism and their dreams realism and we find several forms of Pottekatt was multifaceted personality reflected reality as they had real dreams. it being practised in literature in Indian and was dynamic as a writer. He bought He also pointed out some major and the world as well. While stating his rich travel experiences to bear upon differences between their inclinations, various forms of realism like critical his eminently readable novels and was style and themes. Most of the Thakazhi’s realism, historical realism, magical realism too bewitched by the spirit of place characters were farmers, middle-class etc, he reiterated that we should and life. He said that Pottekatt used to people and land lords. Pottekatt besides broadmindedly accept all types of realism. set his stories in the remote corners of being romantically realistic about the life The inaugural address was delivered the world and presented characters that around him also represented the other by veteran Hindi critic Namwar Singh. appeared rather strange to the common part of the natural inclination of the In his inaugural address, he mentioned man but theme was innovative and minds of the Keralites. about the contribution of Malayalam appealing to human society. Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President language to the corpus of Indian literature

K. Sreenivasarao delivering welcome address. L-R: V. Rajakrishnan, Namwar Singh, Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari and C. Radhakrishnan

8 DELHI and its writers G. Sankara Kurup, S.K Pottekatt and Thakazhi Shivashankara Pillai. He also quoted Cheeman by Thakazhi and regarded as a vital contribution which projects the true picture of Kerala of that era. He also discussed the impacts of writers he read from Kerala and his reverence for the state due to its remarkable contribution to Indian literature. Refering to Jaishankar Prasad’s view expressed by him in his essay. “Realism in Indian Literature” he defined realism expressed in Indian literature relating to the ideology of writers like Pottekkatt and Thakazhi. Dr. Namwar Singh said that he will not quote any European philosophers and will limit L-R: N. Manu Chakravarthy, K. Chellappan and N. Chandrasekhara Reddy himself to the Indian context of realism. He stated that realism demands ‘poetic career, as a result of which they turned Odia fiction. Chandrakant Patil presented justice for marginalised.’ Realism in prose towards more indigenous and traditional paper on “Marathi Fiction: The Realist emerges from the emotions expressed methods of expression. Tradition.” by the marginalized people in their own The first session was chaired by K. The fourth session of the seminar words. Satchidanandan, veteran Malayalam poet started on 5 October 2013 on the The keynote address was delivered and critic and the topic was “Thakazhi, topic “Renaissance and Indian Fiction” by V. Rajakrishnan, eminent Malayalam Pottekatt and Malayalam Literature.” K.S which was chaired by K. Chellappan. writers. He discussed realism in the Ravikumar, K.P Ramanunni and P.K. N. Manu Chakravarthy presented paper context to Indian fiction and also gave Parakkadavu presented their papers. K.S. on “The Kannada Context” and N. references of Western philosophers. He Ravikumar spoke on the topic “Locating Chandrasekhara Reddy discussed on said that realism as a literary philosophy Thakazhi in the History of Malayalam renaissance and Telugu fiction. or a powerful and pervasive literary Literature.” K.P. Ramanunni spoke on The fifth session was chaired by movement had its origin in the European “Pottekat in his Socio-Historical Context” Avadhesh Kumar Singh extended the cultural milieu around the period 1830- and P.K. Parakkadavu discussed on the discussion on “Renaissance and Indian 40. It offered the most effective artistic impact of Thakazhi and Pottekatt on Fiction.” Anamika discussed the means of expressing a committed sense later fiction in Malayalam. renaissance in Hindi fiction. M.Asaduddin of human reality to several novelists and The second session, “Re-reading presented his paper on “Urdu Fiction:The short story writers. Thakazhi’s name is Thakazhi” was chaired by Great Awakening.” Akshay Kumar almost synonymous with the rise and A.Sethumadhavan. Pradeepan shared his views on the age of realism growth of critical realism in Malayalam Pampirikkunu and Anita Nair presented in Punjabi novels. fiction and his early writings were some their papers on “Thakazhi: A Dalit The sixth session was chaired by C. form of social documentation. Reading” and “On Translating Thakazhi”, Radhakrishnan on the topic “The Worlds According to Rajakrishnan, Pottekatt respectively. of Pottekkatt.” P.P. Raveendran presented retained a romantic element in his The third session on the topic his paper on “Pottekkatt, The Novelist.” imaginative sensibility and he seldom “Renaissance and Indian Fiction” was C.R Prasad spoke on Pottekatt’s short allowed his art to subserve propaganda, chaired by Damodar Mauzo. In this stories and Shamsad Hussain discussed even as he was closely associated with session, Nirmal Kanti Bhattacharjee spoke Pottekatt as a travel writer. the Communist movement. He added on realism in Bengali fiction. Pradeep The valedictory address was that both these writers came to realize Acharya discussed the Assamese reality delivered by Om Cherry N.N. Pillai, the widening gap between realism and and Assamese fiction. Prafulla Kumar well-known playwright and M. the reality at some point in their artistic Mohanty spoke on myth and reality in Mukundan, eminent fiction writer.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 9 Meet The Author Kavi Sandhi Jaswant Singh Kanwal Shehnaz Rashid

ahitya Akademi organized a ‘Meet ahitya Akademi organized a ‘Kavi Sthe Author’ programme on 2 October SSandhi’ programme with 2013 at Moga, Punjab. Eminent Punjabi prominent Kashmiri poet Shehnaz writer Jaswant Singh Kanwal, who has Rashid at Seminar Hall of J&K been writing for more than seven Academy of Art, Culture and decades, was invited to speak on his Languages, Lal Mandi, Srinagar on writing and creative process at the 3 October 2013. Mohd. Zaman programme. Azurdah, Convenor Kashmiri Baldev Singh, Member, Punjabi Advisory Board, presided over. Prof. Advisory Board introduced Sri Kanwal Azurdah introduced the poet to the audience as a writer and social Shahnaz Rashid, highlighting his worker. Dr. Kanwal, a nanogerenian individual efforts to bring Kashmiri is considered the most eminent living poetry nearer to the present day literary scenario of poetry in other Indian languages. Punjabi writers. He has been writing for Shahnaz Rashid recited a number of poems before the audience. Shafaqat about 70 years and has thirty novels, Altaf, Farooq Nazki, M.Y. Teng, Shafaq Sopori, Zameer Ansari and many others ten short story collections, four collections interacted with the poet. Shafqat Altaf, Member of Kashmiri Advisory Board of essays and one poetry collection to presented the vote of thanks. his credit. He has narrated the pains of Punjab and Punjabi in his writings. Jaswant Kanwal in his speech said, Through My Window “I write for Punjabis and also for the enrichment of Punjabi language and literature.” He further said that he has Mohd. Ayub Betab always felt close to the villagers because of their simple life and high thinking. Sahitya Akademi organized a Talking about his famous novel Lahoo programme of ‘Through My di Low, he said that he started writing Window’ on 5 October 2013 at this novel in the early seventies. As the Shopian Town Hall on late Mohd. novel got ready for publication, Ayub Betab. The programme was Emergency was declared. During presided over by Mohd. Zaman Emergency many restrictions were Azurdah, Convenor, Kashmir imposed on publishers and no publisher Advisory Board. In his presidential was ready to print his novel, so he got address, Prof. Azurdah explained it published from Singapore. The copies the importance of such programmes reached Punjab and were sold like hot besides referring to the main cakes. After the Emergency, this novel contribution of Mohd. Ayub Betab. was also published from Punjab. He Shafaqat Altaf presented an elaborate Shahzada Rafique, Zameer Ansari, G. further reminisced his long journey as paper on the contribution of late Betab. N. Aatish, Jan Nisar made valuable a writer and the recognitions he attained He referred to the written books by interventions and interacted with the among the Punjabis in India and abroad. Betab and presented a critical assessment speaker. Betab’s daughter and other His books as best sellers among Punjabi of Betab’s poetic sensibility, novelty of relatives also attended the function. readers is a matter of pride for him. thought and aesthetic aspects of his Zameer Ansari, Member of Kashmiri The programme ended with vote ghazal. Advisory Board proposed the vote of of thanks. G. H. Talib, M. S. Khan, Ali Shaida, thanks.

10 DELHI Symposium Jagannatha. He said that his poetic genius is equivalent to scholars like Bhavbhuti Poet and Thinker and Shankracharya. His works of criticism Panditraj Jagannatha are of immense importance like that of Abinavgupta and Anand Vardhan. Harshdev Madhav, eminent Sanskrit scholar delivered lecture on the topic “The Possibilities of New Poetics.” In his lecture while giving the references from the works of Prof. Abhiraj Rajendra Mishra, Dr. Shankardev Sharma, Prof. Reva Prasad Dvivedi, Prof. Radhavallabh Tripathi, he also discussed the contribution of self-composed Vagishwarikanthsutram. In the first session under the chairpersonship of Mukundkam Sharma, Chancellor, Shri Lal Bahadur Sahstri Vidyapeeth, Ramakant Shukla, Bhagirathi Nanda, Keshav Joshi, Muniraj Pathak, Sunil Joshi, Ramya Shukla and students Namwar Singh delivering his address. L-R: Brajendra Tripathi, Hari Ram Mishra, Radha Vallabh Tripathi, Harshdev Madhav and K. Sreenivasarao of Sharda Devi Sanskrit Vidyapeeth recited the verses by Pandit Jagannatha he Akademi in collaboration with poetics from its limitations. He also from his works like Gangalahri, Bhamini TDev Vani Parishad organised a highlighted the possibility of creating Vilas, Rasgangadhar etc. Mukundkam symposium on ‘Panditraj Jagannatha: Sanrachnavadi Kavyashastra through Sharma discussed in detail the historical Poet and Thinker’ at Sahitya Akademi alankara by understanding limitations of background of Pandit Jagannatha and Auditorium, New Delhi on 17 October Dhwani Siddhant. his relationships with Jahangir, Shahjahan 2013. Eminent scholars while Radhavallabh Tripathi, Convenor, and Darashikoh. remembering him with reverence Sanskrit Advisory Board, while delivering Harshdev Madhav was felicitated by discussed his personality and poetic his introductory speech highlighted the Dev Vani Parishad, Delhi and Ramakant geniuses. importance of the works of Pandit Shukla gave concluding remarks. In the two sessions of this literary programme where scholars delivered lectures on the possibilities of new poetics and modern Sanskrit poetics; the recitation of selected Sanskrit verses of Jagannatha created harmonious atmosphere. In the Inaugural session, K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi, while welcoming the participants and guests shared his feeling of immense pleasure due to the interest shown by the scholars for this symposium. Namwar Singh, eminent Hindi writer and critic, presided over the inaugural session. In his presidential address he stressed on the need of liberating Sanskrit A view of the audience

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 11 Literary Forum Nepali Poets’ Meet Kashmiri Short Story Reading A ‘Nepali Rachna Path’ programme was organised by the Sahitya Akademi, in collaboration with Nepali Sahitya Adhyayan Samiti, Kalimpong on 5 October 2013 at Worship Centre, Kalimpong. There were two sessions, a session each for reading of short story and poetry. The short story reading session was chaired by Prem Pradhan, Convenor, Nepali Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Ratna Kumar Phuyel, Sanjay Bista and Indramani Darnal presented their short stories. Poetry reading session was presided over by Man Bahadur Pradhan. Manoj Bagoti, Monica Mukhia, Dalsingh Akela, Jogen Darnal, Saran Muskan, Pratibha Kumari, Nirmala Pradhan, Tara Subedi. Sudhir Chhetri, Shamsher Ali, Tika Bhai, Gyan Sutar and Sudha Gurung recited their poems in this session.

Sahitya Akademi organized a ‘Literary Forum’ on 5 October 2013 at Shopian Town Hall. Hindi Short Story Four short story writers Rahim Rehbar, Mushtaq Ahmad Reading Programme Mushtaq, Dildar Ashraf Shah and Mahfooza Jan presented their latest short stories before the audience. Mohd. Zaman ‘Literary Forum’ programme was organised on 8 October Azurdah, Convenor, Kashmiri Advisory Board presided over 2013 at Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. Three fiction writers and Shahzada Rafique conducted the proceedings. In his Harisuman Bisht, Virendra Saxena and Pradeep Pant read presidential address, he introduced the short story writers, out their stories. Harisuman Bisht read his story titled “Khuli who were to present their short stories. He also discussed Reh Gayi Khirki Ke Dusari Taraf ” which highlighted the the significance of short stories in relation to the language struggles of women living in hilly areas. Virendra Saxena and culture. Among audience there were many who interacted read out an experimentalist story titled “Kitna Doodh Kitna with the short story writers and offered their valuable Pani” which dealt with the reality of relationships. The last comments on the stories read. story was read out by Pradeep Pant titled “Wey Hongey Shafaqat Altaf, Member, Kashmir Advisory Board Kamiyab” which was a satirical conversation between two presented the vote of thanks. beggars.

Through My Window Sitaram Kafley on Nepali writer Dev Bhandari

A ‘Through my Window’ programme was organised by the Sahitya Akademi in collaboration with Nepali Sahitya Adhyayan Samiti, Kalimpong on 5 October 2013 at Worship Centre, Kalimpong. Sitaram Kafley spoke about the personality and works of Dev Bhandari, a renowned Nepali writer.

Virendra Saxena, Pradeep Pant and Hari Suman Bist

12 DELHI People and Books

Nepali Ghazal Sitaram Yechury Recitation n one of the popular literary Iprogramme series ‘People and Books’ by the Akademi, well-known A ‘Nepali Ghazal Sandhya’ political leader Sitaram Yechury, programme was organised by Member of Parliament participated the Sahitya Akademi, in and delivered a thought provoking collaboration with Devkota speech on the books that have Sangh, Siliguri on 6 October influenced him. 2013 at Siliguri. The While introducing the leader, K. programme was chaired by Sreenivasarao, Secretary called Sri Prem Pradhan, Convenor, Yechury “a rare leader with scholarly Nepali Advisory Board, vision, a devoted follower of Sahitya Akademi. universal human values and an Jas Yonjan ‘Pyasi’, well- admirer of cultural diversity of our nation”. of ‘Economics’. He found the subject most known Nepali ghazal writter A rare genius in diverse disciplines, Sri interesting, as Economics defines its beginning and the Member of Nepali Yechury delivered a pragmatic and insightful in the principles of uncertainty unlike the Advisory Board, Sahitya presentation on his exemplary understanding proved scientific experiments. Most Akademi made a introductory of Das Capital by Karl Marx and called captivating dictum in economics derived by speech and compared the the work a book of aesthetics, science and Karl Marx was as Sri Yechury informed programme. philosophy and not simply a treatise of “Principles of justice can never rise the Karna ‘Virah’, Sanjeev economics and politics. Das Capital remains economic condition of the time.” Material Chhetri, Subhash Shrestha, a great book of perennial interest and wealth always defines the pursuit of the Sarita ‘Samdarshi’, Kamal inspiration to him as also to many around issues. In other words material consciousness Regmi, Milan Bantawa, the world. determines the social consciousness, whereas Deepak Thatal, Mahesh Dahal Inspired by his grandfather who indulged social consciousness never determines the and Lilla Bahadur Chhetri him into the habit of reading, Sri Yechury material consciousness. There was always a recited their ghazals at the claimed that the whole range of human question in the mind of Sri Yechury “We all exist in the world, what is my place in programme. The ghazals read emotions and experience could be inferred the society?” Quoting the preface in the first out reflected the emotions only through books. It is impossible to gain wisdom simply by one’s individual experience edition of Das Capital, “We are the product such as love and sorrow, and alone. Comprehending varied human of circumstances; we do have the capacity also the life and society, day emotions and the vast experiences of to change the circumstances.” Sri Yechury to day circumstances and exceptional kinds might end up in a creative reiterated that the idea is highly philosophical. almost every aspect of the life endeavour, be it literature, music or art. The Das Capital continues to supply new vistas of human being. wisdom is laid bare in the books with some and insights of the present and future Govind Singh Ghatani, one’s experience which in fact help widening whenever we go through it. The book Banik Pradhan, Sujit Khawas the horizon of the vision and thought of withstands the passage of time and that is and Pawan Namdung were a reader. How do we learn them, imbibe why, at the time of global economic invited to sing some Nepali them or be inspired by them is up to the meltdown Pope of Vatican city took a copy ghazals. perception of a reader, Sri Yechury expressed of Das Capital to comprehend the major in his vibrant presentation. economic crisis. Sitram Yechury’s taste for books in his Good books keep unfolding its relevance early days was diverse such as science, irrespective of time and space. Das Capital literature, music, art, fantasies etc. Later, he is one such great works in the world, Sri narrowed down his interest to the discipline Yechury concluded.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 13 Translation Workshop Symposium Mahmood Ayaz Bengali-Santali

day national symposium in Urdu his paper, gave the details of the A ‘Bengali-Santali Translation Workshop’ Awas organized in Bangalore on 18 publications of Soughat and stated as to was organised from 13 to 16 November October 2013 on the life and work of how Ayaz encouraged budding Urdu 2013 at Sahitya Akademi’s Regional Mahmood Ayaz, an eminent, poet, critic, writers by publishing their works in the Office, Kolkata. Bengali short stories of editor and journalist. Chander Bhan literary edition of Salar. Shaista Yusuf Bangla Galpa Sankalan, Part 3 (edited by Khayal, Convenor, Urdu Advisory mentioned that Ayaz was a guide to Ashru Kumar Sikdar and published by Board presided over the function and many people young and old. He Sahitya Akademi) were translated into Shafey Kidwai, Member, General reiterated that Ayaz’s character and Santali during the workshop. Council was the chief guest. Khaleel integrity need to be emulated. He stressed The Director of the workshop was that there is a need to do research in Mamoon, Akademi award-winner and Gangadhar Hansda, Convenor, Santali eminent Urdu poet delivered the key- the various aspects of the life and works Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Three note address. of Mahmood Ayaz. Akram Naqqash, language experts were invited to look Speaking on this occasion, Sri Khayal in his paper spoke about the new Western after the translation; they were Rabilal stated that Mahmood Ayaz was not only ideas of the west popularized by Soughat. an eminent poet but an exemplary editor. Shahmadar Aqeel expressed about the Tudu, Badal Hembram and Somai Kisku. He recalled the services rendered by him perfectionism of Ayaz in accepting any Translators were Ramdhan Hembram, in bringing out literary journal Soughat literary work for Soughat. He also Rupchand Hansda, Chandi Charan Kisku, and the daily Salar. Shafey Kidwai said mentioned some of the great translations Sachin Mandi, Rabandas Hembram, that Ayaz brought out Soughat in three done by him. Gorachand Murmu, Bhim Chandra phases and that every phase was unique Haleema Firdous dwelt on the Soren, Lamxi Narayan Hansda and in its content and form while an issue editorials of Soughat. He stated that his Jagneswar Soren. dedicated to Modernism was a milestone editorials had a lasting impact on the in the first phase the discovery of the writers and the readers. Manzoor Ahmed eminent writers of the past were eye Daccani gave a critical appreciation on openers to the younger generation. the prose written by Ayaz. Azeezulla Kavisandhi Khaleel Mamoon delivering the key- Baig mentioned about the circumstances note address stressed on the independent in which Salar was brought out and how Gyaneshwar Sharma outlook of Mahmood Ayaz free of was it aggressive in the formative years. Dogri Writer either progressive or modern thought There was occasions that Ayaz went to having allegiance to only literary merit. jail on account of his forceful expressions A Kavisandhi programme with He briefly mentioned the achievements against the Indian Government. N. M. of Mahmood Ayaz as a poet, editor Saeed discussed the literary merit of the Gyaneshwar Sharma, Dogri writer was and journalist. He said that in poetry poetry of Ayaz and mentioned that organised by Sahitya Akademi on 11 he was a neo-classicist. emotions and expressions relating to November 2013 at Jammu. Azam Shahid in his paper, mentioned death dominate the poems of Ayaz. about the courage of Mahmood Ayaz Farhat Ehsas in his concluding remarks in his literary expressions and also mentioned about the unique character mentioned about his non compromising of his magazine Soughat and as to how attitude in journalism. Maher Mansoor it is a milestone in Urdu literature. spoke about the contribution made by Mushtaque Sadaf, Programme Officer Mahmood Ayaz as the Chairman of welcomed the gathering and conducted Karnataka Urdu Academy, who the programme. A large number of mentioned that Ayaz never allowed any audience comprising of students teachers political interference in the functioning and writers attended the programme of the Academy. Suleman Khumar, in including Ayaz’s wife.

14 DELHI Festival of India in Peru and Cuba Indian Writers’ Participation

ahitya Akademi This was followed by a session modern Hindi writers like Shamsher S took part in the which was chaired by K. Satchidanandan. Bahadur Singh. Mini Festival of India He pointed out how the two great The Peruvian scholars Jose Leon in Peru and Cuba, Nobel laureates from Latin America Herrera and Pablo Carreno Cabrejos organised by responded to India at a deep level by extolled the greatness of ancient Indian Ministry of Culture, citing many passages from Octavio Paz philosophy and religion. “It is time that Government of India and Pablo Neruda. He also spoke of Latin America opened its eyes to the by sending a team of the immense popularity of Vallajo, riches of contemporary Indian literature”, writers consisting Neruda, Paz, Borges, Marquez and they said. of Purushottam Llosa in India. The next evening’s event riveted on Agrawal, K. Satchidanandan, H.S. The three Indian speakers, the theme “Tendencies in Contemporary Shivaprakash, S.P. Ganguly, Arun Kamal Purushottam Agrawal, S P. Ganguly and Indian Literatures and Problems of Multi and Karabi Deka Hazarika with K. Arun Kamal spoke on the electrifying Lingualism”. The session was chaired by Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi. impact of Latin American literatures in Purushottam Agrawal. Addressing the The delegation arrived in Lima on the India. Prof. Ganguly, who spoke in audience, Dr. Sreenivasarao contrasted evening of 23 October 2013 to take Spanish, recollected the contribution of the predominantly bilingual situation of part in the Festival of India in Latin Tagore to build up Indo-Latin American Latin American Literatures; later, Ms. American countries. ties in early 20th century. He mentioned Sandro Chiri of Casa de la Literatura On the evening of 25 October 2013, the overwhelming response of readers hoped that the discussions would be they participated in a dialogue along with on reading the translations of Peruvian fruitful for both the cultures. Peruvian scholars on the theme novels in his region which is Bengal. Prof. Agrawal reminded the audience of ‘Literary Exchanges between India Prof. Kamal discussed how great Latin that the achievements of Indian Literature and Latin America’ at the auditorium American poets like Neruda and Vallajo in recent times are no less spectacular of Casa de la Literatura Peruana. had shaped the sensibility of great than those of bygone times. He After the welcome address by Dr. Rao, Milagros Saldarriaga, Director, Casa de la Literatura, Ravindra Singh, Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of Culture spoke in the inaugural session. Dr. Rao in his welcome speech underlined the popularity of Latin American writers in India and emphasized the need to take this ahead by planning broader and long-standing literary exchanges between the two great cultures. Ms. Saldarriaga expressed her deep happiness over the event and expressed the willingness of her institution to do more in this area. Ravindra Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India spoke of the internationally renowned modern Indian literature and its further emergence. Members of the Indian writers’ delegation

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 15 emphasized on the range, scope and Indian Writers at universal significance of the best of contemporary Indian writers. Prof. The Festival of India in Cuba Satchidanandan enumerated the recent trends in Indian writing. He spoke of literary dialogue between these two great the great impact of dalit, tribal and cultures. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, feminist writings. H.S. Shivaprakash Sahitya Akademi who welcomed the described Indian literary scene as “Twenty gathering, pointed out though a lot of two languages in search of a historian”. Latin American writers enjoyed But this bewilderingly diverse scene also enormous fame in India, the best of unified past and present through a Cuban writers is yet to be translated handful of recurrent tendencies, he said. in Indian languages. He hoped that this The Peruvian speakers Jose Ignacio exchange would start a new beginning. Lopez, Ramirez Gaston, Marcel he opening of the three day literary Miquel Barnet, President of the Union Velasquez Castro pointed out that Peru event took place on the afternoon of Cuban Writers and Artists reciprocated and India share similar post-colonial T of 29 October 2013 at Casa del Alba, with optimistic views. anxiety and problems are attempting to Havana. Inaugurating the event, Mr. Ronaldo Armando Fernnadez, come to terms with their own cultural Rafael Bernal, Hon’ble Minister for Nancy Muriano, Basilia Papastamatiu essences. Culture, Government of Cuba expressed were three eminent poets from Cuba On the evening of 27 October 2013, who started the event by reciting their there was an Indo-Peruvian Poets’ Meet his immense joy over the festival and poems with English translations. chaired by H.S. Shivaprakash. Sri hoped that this festival would pave the Sreenivasarao, and Sri Chiri welcomed way for intense cultural and literary The symposium that followed on the gathering. exchanges between the two countries the theme of ‘Indo-Latin American Indian poets K. Satchidanandan, keeping in mind the close bonding shared Exchanges and Influences’ was chaired Arun Kamal and Karabi Deka Hazarika between Cuba and India. by Prof. Ganguly. He spoke of the read out their original poems translated V. Srinivas, Joint Secretary, Ministry popularity of Cuban Revolution in India by S.P. Ganguly. The Peruvian side of Culture, Government of India spoke and the power of Cuban Literature to consisted of the Nobel Prize nominee on political and cultural significance of attract a huge readership from India. Carlos German Belli, Mario Montalbetti the visits of political figures from both K. Satchidanandan, Karabi Deka and Marco Mantos. The English the countries India and the need for a Hazarika and Arun Kamal spoke on translations of Peruvian poets were also read by representatives of Casa de la Literatura. Prof. Shivaprakash said in his concluding remarks that Indian poetry after the period of modernism would not have taken a different turn but for the inspiration of great Latin America poets like Vallajo, Neruda and Paz. He pleaded with Peruvian poets to reciprocate Indian love for their poetry by becoming more responsive to the achievements of Indian poetry which can be a great learning experience for them. The session was followed by an interactive question and answer. The three day event went a long way towards understanding between Concluding session at the Festival of Cuba Peruvian and Indian literatures. L-R: S.P. Ganguly, Purushottam Agrawal and H.S. Shivaprakash

16 DELHI the reception of Latin American writings in the context of their respective Indian languages. On the second day, the event was devoted Seminar to readings by Indian poets and their Cuban counterparts. The Indian side was represented Post-colonial Literature in Nepali by Shivaprakash, Satchidanandan and Karabi Deka Hazarika. The English translations were read by Prof. Ganguly. Alberto Edel Fuentes, Yanelys Encinosa, Pedro Lopez Cervino and Alpido Alonso were the Cuban poets who read out their poems along with the English translation. The meet was chaired by Arun Kamal. The concluding event on the third day was a symposium on ‘Contemporary Literary Trends and Challenges in a Multi-lingual Society’ which was chaired by Purushottam Agrawal. In his address, Sreenivasarao discussed about the problems of negotiating the challenging in a multilateral country like India with so many languages being spoken and written. Prof. Ganguly highlighted the vibrant contemporary Indian Literature and its multifaceted impacts. Satchidanandan spoke L-R: Paramani Dangal, Diwakar Pradhan, Mohan P. Dahal and Mahesh Pradhanrshri on the preponderance of dalit, tribal and feminist trends and about the problems of translation. H.S. Shivaprakash pointed out that two day seminar on ‘Post-colonial Literature in Nepali’ was though there is an “overarching unity among A organised by Sahitya Akademi in collaboration with Sikkim University, our literatures in terms of major movements Gangtok on 9-10 Novermber 2013 at Gangtok. like modernism, feminism etc., the overall The seminar was inaugurated by Tankabahadur Subba, Vice-Chancellor, picture is governed by the law of unequal Sikkim University. Pratapchandra Pradhan, well-known Nepali writer development”. He referred to English as a and the Dean, School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Sikkim global language posing a threat to our languages. University delivered his key-note address. The session was chaired by The delegation made a visit to the Dept. Sanu Lama, distinguished Nepali writer. Prem Pradhan, Convenor, of Literature at University of Havana on 29 Nepali Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi gave the introductory speech. October 2013 to discuss the possibility of The session was conducted by Kavita Lama, Head, Department of literary and academic exchanges and also Nepali, Sikkim University. visited the Association of Young Artists in First session was chaired by Mohan P. Dahal, while papers were Cuba. They had a cordial dialogue with presented by Diwakar Pradhan, Parasmani Dangal and Mahesh Pradhan. Artists Council of Havana to discuss the Second session was chaired by Josh Yonzone Pyasi. Gyanbahadur modalities of art exchanges between the two Chettri, Krishnaraj Ghatani, Balaram Panday and Tekbahadur Chettri countries. presented their papers in the session. During the course of discussions at both The third session was chaired by Pempa Tamang. Papers were the places Lima and Havana, the writers and presented by Devendra Subba, Padam Nepal and Bidhan Golay poets tried to explore the possibility of Valedictory session of the seminar was chaired by Krishnasingh translating Indian Literature into Spanish under Moktan. Pradhumna Shrestha expressed his views on the seminar as the project – Indian Literature Abroad. the observer. Valedictory address was given by Jiwan Namdung.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 17 Seminar Maithili’ and ‘Maithili Epics based on the Story of Rama’, respectively. Second session was chaired by Epic Poetry Tradition in Maithili Madhuri Jha, while papers presented by Ranjit Kumar Singh and Rabindra Kumar Chaudhary on the topics “Maithili Epics Based on Krishna” and “History Based Maithili Epics”. Third and the last session of the day was chaired by Jagdish Narayan Prasad. Papers were presented by Abhay Kumar on the topic “Language of Maithili Epics” and by Kulanand Jha on the topic “Difference between Mahakavya and Prabandhkavya”. On the second day, and third sessions were combined and Presided over by Keshkar Thaku, papers were presented by Dhirendra Kumar, Shiv Prasad Yadav, Lalita Jha, Vishvanath Jha, Ramnaresh Singh and Virendra Jha. Speakers discussed on the different aspects Ramkant Mishra, delievering presidential address at inauguration session To his left Bina Thakur and others of the epical poetry of Maithili. The next session was chaired by eminar on ‘Epic Poetry Tradition in and character like Kalidas. Dhirendra Narayan Jha ‘Dheer’. Ashok SMaithili’ was organised by Sahitya The inaugural session was presided Singh Tomar, Kishore Kumar Singh, Akademi in collaboration with Parvati over by Ramakant Mishra. In his speech, Kamal Mohan ‘Chunnu’ and Shankar Science College, Madhepura on 21-22 he presented a comparative study of Deo Jha presented their papers in the October 2013 at Madhepura, Bihar. The English and Maithili epical poetry. special context of famous Maithili epics seminar was inaugurated by R. N. Mishra, First session of the seminar was Gatyavati, Chanakya, Radha Virah and Vice-Chandler, Bhupendra Narayan chaired by Mahendra Jha. Papers were Pratijnya Pandav. Mandal University, Madhepura. Devendra presented by Raman Jha, Dev Narayan The valedictory session was chaired Kumar Devesh, Sub-editor, Sahitya Sah and Harivansh Jha. The topic of by Lalitesh Mishra. In this session Akademi welcomed the participants and their papers were “Metaphors of Maithili Dhirendra Nath Mishra expressed his audience. Bina Thakur, Convenor, Epical Poetry”, ‘Mythological Epics in observations on the seminar. Maithili Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi delivered the introductory speech. She spoke about the Asmita development of epical poetry in Maithili with special reference to the contribution of Chanda Jha. Nepali Women Writers In his key-note address, Ramdeo Jha, renowned Maithili writer said that An ‘Asmita’ programme was organised with Nepali women writers by Sahitya Maithili is rich with epical poetry as Akademi in collaboration with Sikkim University, Gangtok on 10 Novermber mentioned in the literature section of 2013 at Gangtok. the Encyclopedia Britainca. He analyzed the The programme was chaired by Shanti Chettri. Kavita Lama, Binashri genres of Mahakavya and Prabandhakavya. Kharel, Lalita Sharma and Sudha M. Rai presented their Nepali poems and Referring to Kalidas, Sri Jha said that short stories in the programme. the epic writer can transcreate the content

18 DELHI Translation Workshop Singh, Manmohan Singh, Madhumeet and Madhuri Chawla; five from Assamese to English viz Jyotirmoy Punjabi, English and Assamese Pradhani, Dwijen Sharma, Kaustabh Kumar Deka, Debabhusan Bora and Director, Arts, Archana Deka; likewise from English British Council, to Punjabi were Rajinderjit Kaur New Delhi in her Dhindsa, Parvesh Sharma, Jaswinder address stressed on Kaur Bindra, Davinder Kaur Sandhu the need for and Manjeet Kaur Bhatia; and from translation of great English to Assamese viz., Ratnottama Indian works into Das, Prarthana Saikia, Jonali Pathowary English and Bora, Rubee Das and Akanksha Phukan vice versa. Kate participated in the workshop. Resource Griffin, Interational persons were Rana Nayar (Punjabi to Programme English), Hina Nandrajog (English to Punjabi), Pradip Acharya (Assamese to Director, British English) and Pranjit Borah (English to Centre for Literary Assamese). Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari delivering inaugural speech. Translation briefly The authors Prem Parkash, Ned K. Sreenivasarao, Kate Griffin and others talked about the Beuman and Evie Wyld were present purpose of on all five days to help in the translations. five day Translation Workshop in organizing such workshops. During the workshop, a panel discussion Acollaboration with British Council During the workshop, Prem on ‘Translation and the Editor’ was also and British Centre for Literary Translation Parkash’s award winning collection of held in which Arunava Sihna of CNN- was organized from 21 to 25 October Punjabi short stories Kujh Unkiha vi and IBN, Gitanjali Chatterjee, Deputy 2013 at Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi Atulananda Goswami’s award winning Secretary, Sahitya Akademi and the Editor for translating Punjabi and Assamese Assamese short story collection Cheneh of Pratham Books participated. short stories into English and vice versa. Jorir Ganthi were translated into English. On 25 October 2013, in the It was inaugurated on 21 October Ned Beuman’s and Evie Wyld’s short valedictory session, a reading session was by Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President stories in English were also translated arranged wherein participants to read and K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya into Punjabi and Assamese. out their translations. After the valedictory Akademi welcomed the guests and Five translator from Punjabi to session, an interactive session with the participants. Sheela Ghosh, Regional English viz; Hartej Kaur Bal, Rajinder writers was arranged at British Council.

The participants and the resource persons of the workshop

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 19 Symposium

Majhi Ramdas Tudu, Santali writer

Sahitya Akademi organised one day symposium on Majhi Ramdas Tudu, renowned Santali writer on 20 October 2013 at Shillong, Meghalaya. Symosium was inaugurated by U. N. Majhi. Talking about the contribution of Majhi Ramdas Tudu, he expressed his views about Santal’s life and also Santali language for its betterment. Key-note address was given by Surya Singh Besra. He emphasised the fact that more and more literature would lift up our culture. Father Franceis Hembram was the guest of honour. He called for more literacy among Santals to save their language and culture. This session was chaired by Gangadhar Hansda, Convenor, Santali Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. The first session was focused on the topic “ Life and Socio-religious Aspects of Majhi Ramdas Tudu”. Session was chaired by Rupchand Hansda. Papers were presented by Sobhanath Beshra, Ramchandra Murmu and Sophana Srichampa Joba Murmu. Shobhanath Beshra spoke about the life and values of Ramdas Tudu. He said that religion has Akademi Ananda Coomaraswamy great power. Ramchandra Murmu expressed about the Fellow from Thailand religious front of the Santals during the colonial period with reference to the books of Ramdas Tudu as that how religion played important role at that time to shape he Akademi organised a reading and interaction programme the life of Santals. Joba Murmu spoke about episode Tof Dr. Sophana Srichampa, Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellow of Karmu Dharmu and Karam as narrated by Ramdas of Sahitya Akademi with Delhi based writers. Tudu. How Karam celebration come about in life and Sahitya Akademi organized a round-table discussion with people. Dr Sophana Srichampa, Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellow for In the second session on “Contribution of Ramdas the year of 2012 on 22 October 2013 at Rabindra Bhawan, Tudu to Santali literature” was chaired by Damayanti Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. Dr. Srichampa presented her views Beshra. Papers were presented by Mohan Chandra Baskey, on Thai culture, international relationships, Thai theatre and other Salkhu Murmu and Ramdhan Hembram. They spoke power point presentations on geographical and anthropological about the role of Ramdas Tudu as first Santal writer, details supporting the facts with statistics. Dr. Srichampa said literary value of Kherwal Bonso Dhoram Puthi and also about that the Thai culture has been shaped by many influences, other books of Ramdas Tudu, a landmark of the Santali including Indian, Lao, Burmese, Cambodian and Chinese. Its literature. traditions incorporate a great deal of influence from India, The last session was on the topic “Contribution to China, Cambodia, and the rest of Southeast Asia. Thailand’s the Santal Society”. The session was chaired by Jadumani national religion Theravada Buddhism is important to modern Besra. Papers were presented by Madan Mohan Soren, Thai identity. Thai Buddhism has evolved over time to include Basrathi Soren and Raghunath Hembram. Madan Mohan many regional beliefs originating from Hinduism, animism as Soren spoke about reflection of the society in the book well as ancestor worship. of Ramdas Tudu. Dasarathi Soren’s emphasis was on the Like most Asian cultures, respect towards ancestors is an preaching of Ramdas Tudu to the society to uphold essential part of Thai spiritual practice. Thais have a strong Kherwalism. Raghunath Hembram spoke about aims and sense of hospitality and generosity, but also a strong sense of objectivs of Ramdas Tudu in Kherwal Bonso Dhoram Puthi. social hierarchy.

20 DELHI As for its international relations is concerned the Seminar Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a geo-political and economic organisation of ten Acharya Mahavir Prasad Diwedi countries located in Southeast Asia, which was formed on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Its aims include accelerating he Akademi organised a seminar on Acharya Mahavir Prasad th economic growth, social progress, cultural development TDiwedi on the occasion of his 150 Birth Anniversary at Nirala among its members, protection of regional peace and Auditorium, Rajashri Purushottam Das Tandon Hindi Bhawan, stability, and opportunities for member countries to Lucknow on 24 November 2013. discuss differences peacefully. In the inaugural session, Brajendra Tripathy, Deputy Secretary, Thailand enjoys a high level of literacy, and Sahitya Akademi, while welcoming the audience highlighted Mahavi education is provided by a well-organized school Prasad Diwedi’s contribution in socializing of Hindi language. system of kindergartens, primary, lower secondary and Ramesh Chandra Shah, eminent Hindi writer and critic delivered upper secondary schools, numerous vocational colleges, inaugural address. He said that through Saraswati magazine, Sri and universities. SEA Write Award given annually from Diwedi introduced the chapter of modern literature in Hindi 1979 include poetry, short stories, novels, plays, folklores language. Guest of honour Nand Kishore Acharya said that Diwedi’s as well as religious writings to the best of the writers poetry created a balance between tradition and modernization. Surya Prasad Dixit, Convenor, Hindi Advisory Board of Sahitya Akademi from ASEAN countries. She further spoke on the literature and theatre while giving his introductory address said that Diwedi has extensively of Thailand. The earliest literature of the Thai people written on Science and Medicine and also inspired others to was written in Chinese till the influence of Sanskrit contribute to this field. and Pali from India. Thai literature was traditionally The first session was chaired by Achutyanand Mishra and the and heavily influenced by Indian culture from the 13th topic was “Diwediji and Literary Journalism.” Vijay Dutt Sridhar, century. Thailand’s national epic is a version of the Akhilesh and Ashish Tripathi presented their papers. Ramayana called the Ramakien. The second session was chaired by Wagish Shukla and the topic The most important poet in Thai literature was was “Diwediji’s Criticism and his Essays.” Hari Mohan Sharma, Sunthorn Phu, who is best known for his romantic Revati Raman and Jyotish Joshi presented their papers. adventure story Phra Aphai Mani and for nine travel The third session was chaired by Gangaratan Pandey and the pieces called Nirats. 20th-century Thai writers tended topic was “Diwediji’s Potery, Translation and Language Policy.” to produce light fiction rather than literature for a Naresh Saxena, Pawan Kumar Aggarwal and Satyadev Mishra burgeoning literature market. But increasingly, individual presented their papers. writers are being recognized for producing more serious works, including writers like Kukrit Pramoj, Kulap Saipradit, (penname Siburapha), Botan, and others. Some of their works have been translated into English. The Isan region of Thailand has produced two notably socio-critical writers in Khamsing Srinawk and Pira Sudham. Notably, Pira Sudham writes in English. Majority of the women writers are writing novels/fiction.Thai theatre performances and also the puppet shows are based on stories from the Ramkien (mythological epic the Ramayana), Thai folk literatures and the present socio-cultural and religious issues, she stated. After a live lecture, she interacted with selective Indian writers from the city of Delhi. Ramesh Chandra Shah delivering his address. L-R: Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, Nand Kishore Acharya and Surya Prasad Dixit

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 21 Through My Window Play Reading Programme

Haqqani-ul Qasmi on Sahitya Akademi organized a Play- Salahuddin Pervez reading Programme with Surendra Verma on 30 December 2013 in New Delhi. Sri Verma, a leading Hindi hrough my Window programme litterateur and playwright read from his was organised by Salahuddin Pervez T latest publication Moghal Mahabharat-A on 29 November 2013 at Rabindra Tetrology, a rare effort in Hindi literature. Bhavan, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi Sri Verma has authored more than in which a noted literary critic and Kavisandhi journalist Haqqani-ul Qasmi presented 15 publications that include plays, fiction, a critical account of Pervez’s literature essays etc. He has won the Sangeet relating to his life and his contribution Shefalika Verma in totality to the enrichment of Maithili poet contemporary Urdu literature. Salahuddin Pervez stamped his A ‘Kavisandhi’ programme was organised individuality in the last quarter of twentieth by the Sahitya Akademi on 26 December century. He demolished the cliché that 2013 at Akademi Conference Hall, post-modernism did not give importance Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi with to oriental art, culture and texts. He eminent Maithili woman poet Shefalika experimented with inter-textuality and Verma. Smt. Verma recited her poems developed a new style of his own. That titled ‘Nari’, ‘Thappa’, ‘Hamar Janam’, way he earned a distinct identity among ‘Ahank Naam’, ‘Ghar Katai Achhi’, ‘Ham Natak Akademi Award in 1993 and the his contemporaries. These views were Nari Chhi’ etc. Most of her poems dealt Sahitya Akademi Award for his noted expressed by noted critic and journalist, Muje Chand Chahiye. Haqqani-ul-Qasmi at the Through My with the problems and sufferings faced Window programme on Urdu poet and by women and children. In a discussion Surendra Verma Moghal Mahabharat fiction writer, Salahuddin Pervez. had with the audience, Shefalika Verma -A Tetralogy from whose publication Sri Speaking at this occasion Chander Bhan observed that people of today have Verma read out his plays received an Khayal, Convenor, Urdu Advisory duel personality and they have no passion wide appreciation among the audience Board of Sahitya Akademi, mentioned for anything. It is also the matter of consisted of theatre personalities, that Salahuddin Pervez was a creative concern that we do not spend time with playwright, literary writers, translatiors genius. He maintained throughout high our children. and lovers of literature. standard in his poetry and fiction. He also said that Urdu literature will never forget his artistic values because he had Sahitya Manch created new tone and style. Santali writers

A ‘Sahitya Manch’ programme jointly organized by Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi and All India Santali Writers Association, Odisha Branch at Abasara Prapta Sarakari Karmachari Sangha Bhawan, Baripada on 15 December 2013. The programme was presided over by Gangadhar Hansda, Convener, Santali Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Gobinda Chandra Majhi and Krushna Chandra Soren read their short stories and Jagannath Murmu, Dasarathi Soren and Faguram Majhi read out some of their selected poems.

22 DELHI Cultural Exchange Programme Sharjah Book Fair Indo-Nepal Writers Akademi’s Participation

A seven member Nepali Writers’ Ganga Prasad Upreti, Vice-Chancellor he Sahitya Akademi participated in delegation consisting of Ganga Prasad, of Nepal Academy informed the writers Tthe Sharjah Book Fair held in the Mahadev Awasthi, Benju Sharma, Ram that this important MoU under which beautiful Expo Centre at Sharjah from Bharos Kapadi, Boond Rama, Sanat both the countries till now have 6 – 16 November 2014. Many countries Regmi and Sandhya Pahari visited India exchanged two delegations. He has also participated in this book fair which as per the Memorandum of said that the Nepali writers are familiar enjoys the patronage of its ruler Sheikh Understanding (MoU) from 19 to 25 with Indian literature and culture. He Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. December 2013. During the course of also said that exchange of such delegation Sahitya Akademi was invited to their visit the delegation visited Dehradun, and the bilateral cultural exchanges and participate in a professional programme Haridwar, Rishikesh and Agra. The the translations between the languages on 3 November 2013, wherein lectures Akademi had also organised a ‘Literary would bring both the countries together. on various aspects of publishing were held. It was followed by a two day Right Forum’ in which eminent Delhi based There was also a reading session with Table wherein translation deals were writers were invited. K. Sreenivasarao, the members of the writers’ delegation. facilitated. A few publishers from UAE Boond Rana, Benju Sharma, Ram Bharos Secretary, Sahitya Akademi welcomed showed interest to publish Indian literature the delegation and the writers invited. Kapadi and Sandhya Pahari presented in Arabic. Speaking on the occasion, Akademi some of their poems. The session was The actual fair was inaugurated on President Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari said then kept open for literary dialogue in 6 November by ruler of Sharjah, His that India and Nepal enjoy a cordial which some Indian writers participated. Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid relationship and the two countries have The President of the Akademi thanked Al Maktoum. More than 150 countries expressed desire to exchange writers all the members of the delegation as participated in the unique book fair held and jointly organise major literary well as their Indian counterparts and in the prestigious Expo Centre of Sharjah. programmes between the India and expressed hope that the two countries A continuous throng of visitors was Nepale. Such activities would most would organise more programmes in seen on all the days. Renowned writers necessarily bring both countries closer. the days to come. from all over the world attended throughout from morning 10 am to 10 pm. Though Sahitya Akademi only displayed its titles and did not sell, the visitors showed keen interest in its publications especially Malayalam and Urdu, as there is a thriving diaspora from Kerala. Indian writers like Ruskin Bond and filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan visited the Sahitya Akademi stall. On 12 November, Sahitya Akademi organized an Evening of Indian Poetry where Malayalam writer Anwar Ali, Marathi poet Kavita Mahajan, Urdu poet Sheen Kaaf Nizam and Hindi poet Madhav Kaushik read out their poems before the crowded audience.

Nepali writers delegation with Indian writers’ at Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 23 Urdu Poet’s Meet Frankfurt Book Fair

Sahitya Akademi had participated in the Frankfurt Book Fair held from 9 – 13 October 2013 where India had a special Pavilion. The Akademi had sent a six member Indian writers’ delegation consisting of Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President, Sahitya Akademi, Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay, Patel Kanajibhai Rayajibhai, Vikram Visaji, K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi (Co-ordinator) and Renu Mohan Bhan, Deputy Secretary, Sahitya Akademi (for Book Exhibition). The Akademi had also requested H.S. Shivaprakash, Pushpita Awasthi and Jeet Thayil who had gone to Frankfurt on their own to join the delegation and participate in the L-R: K. Sreenivasarao, Chander Bhan Khayal, Surender Shajar programmes organized by the Sahitya Akademi. and Talib Zaidi The main objective for the participation in the Frankfurt International Book Fair was to promote Sahitya Akademi organized Urdu poetry reading programme Indian Literature abroad, the project which has been on 31 December 2013 in its auditorium, New Delhi. Sevretary, entrusted to Sahitya Akademi by the Ministry of Sahitya Akademi K. Sreenivasarao welcomed the poets and Culture. During the Fair, number of meetings were lovers of Urdu poetry. In his welcome address, Dr.Rao said held with international publishers who showed interest that Urdu has been one of the premier languages of poetry in Indian literature. The five day International Book and ghazal. Urdu represents the most popular form of Fair gave ample opportunity to explore avenues for subjective music and poetry. He also talked about Urdu poetic Akademi Indian Literature Abroad project wherein tradition. discussions were very vibrant among the different Eminent Urdu poet and Convenor, Sahitya Akademi, Urdu publishers to take up Indian classics into their languages. Advisory Board, Chander Bhan Khayal chaired the programme Sahitya Akademi had organized two literary and said that Urdu, the language of lovers and poets, keeps programmes, a Reading Programme in which India connected with its glorious past. Chander Bhan Khayal Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, Veteran Hindi poet chaired was a writer with fresh ideas and had a distinct world view and Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay, Patel Kanajibhai and individual style in writing. His novels and stories have Rayajibhai, Vikram Visaji, H. S. Shivaprakash and a distinctive and individualistic identity. He also said that new Pushpita Awasthi presented readings from some of poet regard poetry to function as a vehicle to carry accross their works in their original language along with the philosophy, debate or information. The new poet does not English translation. want any issue or movement. A symposium on ‘My World, My Writing’ in which Rauf Raza’s poetry dealt with the scenario in contemporary Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay, Patel Kanajibhai Rayajibhai, society and changing of values. Seemab Sultanpuri’s poetry Vikram Visaji, H.S. Shivaprakash and Jeet Thayil depicted the inequality in all spheres of life. Ranjeet Chauhan participated. The programme was chaired by A. love poetry stated the importance of life. Surender Shajar Sethumadhavan, Chairman, National Book Trust, India. read his poems of patriotism and unity. Talib Zaidi and Nirmal They spoke about their works and their experiences Singh Nirmal poetry spoke on the cultural crisis among us as a writer during the programme which was followed looking for a different politics in the society. by an open house interaction with the audience. Dr. Mushtaque Sadaf proposed the vote of thanks at the Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya Akademi introduced end. the theme of the Symposium.

24 DELHI ahitya Akademi organised a Ssymposium on Upendranath Ask was Symposium Upendranath Ashk organised at Park View Hotel auditorium, Sector 24 Chandigarh on 27 October 2013. In inaugural session, Brajendra Tripathi while welcoming the guests and audience, he spoke on the literary works and personality of Upendranath Ashk. He discussed different stages of Ashk’s creative world quoting various interesting incidences. Surya Prasad Dixit, Convenor, Hindi Advisory Board, in his introductory address shared his views on the contribution of the writers to Hindi literature from Punjab with special reference to Ashk. He discussed about Ashk’s literary journey and his dynamism.

Ravindra Kalia, writer and editor in his L-R: Ravinder Kalia, Ramesh Kuntal Megh, Surya Prasad Dixit and Mukta inaugural address shared Ashk’s family background and enlivened interesting “Non-Fictional Prose and Poetry of him a writer with remarkable skills. memories spent with him. Ramesh Kuntal Ashk.” Madhav Kaushik, Mamta Kalia Chandra Trikha spoke on relevance of Megh, eminent critic presided over the and Chandra Trikha discussed in-depth his writings today. Virendra Menhndiratta inaugural session. In his presidential on various aspects of Ashk’s literary in his address said that empowerment address, he critically evaluated the works. Madhav Kaushik highlighted the of Hindi language was the most ideology in Ashk’s novels. dramatic elements in his poetry. Mamta important contribution of Upendranath The first session was chaired by Kalia in her lecture on his works of Ashk. Chandra Trikha proposed the Pushp Pal Singh and the topic for the memoir and autobiography considered vote of thanks. session was “Fiction and One Act Plays of Ashk.” Renuka Nayyar, Pushp Pal Literary Forum Hindi Writers Singh, Suresh Seth and Sudarshan Vashist actively contributed in the discussion. ‘Literary Forum’ programme was Renuka Nayyar, Hindi writer, fondly organised on 29 November 2013 remembered various instances of her at Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. discussions with Ashk. Fiction writer Under this series two poets Suresh Seth commemoratively Umesh Chauhan and Vinod mentioned the specialty of Ashk’s ‘One Khaitan and one fiction writer Act Plays’. Fiction writer Sudarshan Gauri Shankar Raina were invited. Vashisht mentioned about the time, he I.A.S officer of Kerala Cadre spent with him while Ashk was residing Umesh Chauhan read out his in Dharmashala to complete his novel poems aimed at our system. He Girti Deevarain and also highlighted his presented two poems ‘Angiya merit as writer. Pushp Pal Singh while Betal’ and ‘Aalha-Udal’ in Awadhi L-R: Gauri Shankar Raina, Umesh Chauhan and Vinod Khaitan chairing the session said that middle class language. Vinod Khaitan who is people as the center of the story was also a medical doctor by profession “U-Turn” which projected the concern his unique characteristic. read out his poems with the themes for Dal Lake as an environmentalist. The The second session was chaired by inspired by hospitals and book fairs. programme was compered by Deputy Virendra Mehndiratta and the topic was Gauri Shankar Raina read out his story Secretary Brijendra Tripathi.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 25 Seminar Representative Works 21st Century & Poet’s Meet

orthern Regional Board of Sahitya in general and within northern regional Jagoori(Hindi), Ali Shaida and Shahid NAkademi organised a two days languages in particular. He also stressed Delnawi (Kashmiri) recited their poems. seminar on ‘Representative Works of the need for literary translations to The fourth session was chaired by 21st Century’ besides holding of poetry maintain continuity in Indian literary Zaman Azurdah, Convenor, Kashmiri reading sessions on 27th and 28th of tradition. Qudus Javed of Urdu, Madhav Advisory Board. In his presidential Oct. 2013, at SP College, Srinagar. Hada of Hindi and Rajesh Manhas of address besides highlighting the latest In the inaugural session held on 27 Dogri presented their papers and made trends in Indian literature especially in October 2013. Gitanjali Chatterji, Deputy the audience aware of the present scenario the northern region, he made a specific Secretary Sahitya Akademi delivered her of the literature in their respective reference with special mention of welcome address. Zaman Azurdah languages. Urdu and Kashmiri literatures getting Convenor Kashmiri Advisory Board Arjun Dev Charan, Convenor, influenced by the Western thought. Shad introduced the programme and threw Rajasthani Advisory Board presided over Ramzan (Kashmiri), R.S. Brar (Punjabi), light on the on going activities of the the second session. In his address, he Janardhan Hegde (Sanskrit) and Atul Sahitya Akademi. G. N. Gowher, a highlighted the interrelation between Kanak (Rajasthani) presented their noted poet and novelist delivered his literatures of Northern Indian languages papers that were followed by a long inaugural address. He highlighted the with special references to Rajasthani and discussion. challenges of technology influencing the Punjabi, Dogri and Punjabi, Punjabi and The next poetry reading session was contemporary literature. Axis Hajini Urdu, Hindi and Urdu and Urdu and chaired by Chandra Bhan Khayal. presented the keynote address. He dwelt Kashmiri languages. He also talked about Showkat Ansari and Ayub Sabir from on the latest trends emerging in 21st the language and gestures used in plays Kashmiri, Darshen Butter and Jaswinder century literature. He discussed the to make people communicate without Singh from Punjabi, Shabnam Ashai and problems relating to the literature in the any hurdle. Makrand Paranjape of Mahtab Alam from Urdu, Mithesh North Indian languages with specific English, Gulshan of Kashmiri, Kundanlal Nirmohi and Om Purohit from reference to Kashmir literature. Yasin Mali of Rajasthani presented their papers Rajasthani and Sushil Begana from Dogri Shah, Principal S P College who was depicting the present scenario of literary recited their poems and Sri Khayal besides the chief guest in his address said that activities in their respective languages. his presidential address recited some we must try to keep all literature available Radha Vallabh Tripathi, Convenor, stanzas from his poem “Laulak”. to all language groups, so that they have Sanskrit Advisory Board presided over ample opportunities to have access to the third session. In his presidential the essence of human development. address, he made people to recall the Chandran Bhan Khayal, Convenor, Urdu rich contribution of Kashmiris to Sanskrit Advisory Board and also the Convenor literature and the influence of Sanskrit Northern Regional Board, in his on Indian languages especially the presidential address discussed the languages of north India. Yograj Angrish Meet the Author objectives of the seminar and made a (Punjabi), Purabi Panwar(English), Sushil special reference to literature of Northern Begana (Dogri) and Maula Bakash(Urdu) Deshbandhu Dogra ‘Nutan’ Indian languages in general and to Urdu made presentations about the 21st century literature in particular. writings in their respective languages. A Meet the Author programme with The first session was chaired by Lalit There was a Poets’ Meet after the Deshbandhu Gupta Dogra ‘Nutan’ Magotra, Convenor, Dogri Advisory third session. G.N. Khayal, a noted was held on 10 November 2013 at Board. To his introductory speech from Kashmiri poet presided over the meet. Jammu. the chair, he highlighted the importance Deepak Arsi and Surjeet Hosh (Dogri), of an interaction of Indian languages Makrand Paranjape (English), Leeladhar

26 DELHI Pravasi Manch Divya Mathur L-R: Vijaya Thakur, Shashi Pathania, Veena Gupta, Santosh Khajuria, Hemla Aggarwal, Lalit Magotra, Usha Kiran Khan and Shakuntala Birpuri ‘Pravasi Manch’ programmes was organised on 6 December 2013 with Dogri Women Writers London based Hindi writer Divya Naari Chetna Mathur. She first read out her short- story ‘Grand-Ma.’ This story very A ‘Naari Chetna’ programme was in Dogri’ before poems in Dogri were sensitively projected the changing organized for the first time at read out to a highly responsive and relationship between parents and children Government College for Women, appreciative young audience by Santosh residing abroad and the role of grand Jammu on 11 November 2013 in Jammu. Khajuria, Shashi Pathania, Vijaya Thakur, children. In the next part of the Lalit Mangota, Convener, Dogri Usha Kiran Khan and Shakuntala Birpuri. programme Laxmikant Vajpeyi, Director, Advisory Board, in his introductory Hemla Aggarwal, Principal of the All-India Radio, articulately presented remarks highlighted the importance of College, who chaired the programme few of her poems. Most of her poems holding such programmes for women. appreciated the efforts of Sahitya were from her poetry collection Budha He said that such programmes would Akademi to reach out to young women. Ghar. On the request of audience, she help us to acquaint with aspirations of She said this programme would go a also recited some more poems and Alka women today. Veena Gupta, Dogri critic long way in popularizing Dogri literature Sinha read out her short-story “Fir Bhi presented a paper on ‘Women Writings among youngsters. Sahi.”

Rajbhasha Manch Gyan Prakash Vivek

Under the series of ‘Rajbhasha Manch’, a programme was organised with Gyan Prakash Vivek famous Ghazal and fiction writer at Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi on 13 December 2013. The programme was compered by Deputy Secretary Brijendra Tripathi. Sri Vivek presented more than twenty four poems. His poetry dealt with various themes like human values, communal amity and strained relationships due to material pursuit etc. The programme was well- received by the audience.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 27 Literary Forum Asmita Varsha Das and Manisha Kulshreshtha Play-reading by Rameshwar Prem The Akademi organised an ‘Asmita’ programme on 6 November 2013 at Rabindra Bhavan, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi with two women writers, Varsha Das, eminent Gujarati writer and Manisha Kulshreshtha, well-known Hindi writer. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary Sahitya Akademi introduced the writers to the audience.

In a ‘Literary Forum’ programme under the Play Reading series, eminent playwright Rameshwar Prem was invited to read out his play on 22 November 2013 at Rabindra Bhavan, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary Sahitya Akademi introduced the playwright to the audience. Sri Prem read out his plays in Hindi. The programmed concluded with a lively interaction. Book Exhibition at JNU

The Akademi organised a week-long book exhibition on the occasion of National Kavisandhi Book Week at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. The exhibition was inaugurated by Namwar Singh, eminent Hindi critic. Similarly the book exhibitions Sunita Raina were also organised at Akademi’s Regional Offices, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai. A ‘Kavisandhi’ programme was organised on 16 December 2013 by Sahitya Akademi, at Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi with Sunita Raina Pandit, eminent poet in Kashmiri. Mohd. Zaman Azurda, Convenor, Sahitya Akademi’s Kashmiri Advisory Board introduced the poet Ms. Raina recited her most popular compositions, She has mastered the art of simple diction, expression and style. Her ghazals have been rightly described as one of absorbing conversation and mysterious solidarity.

28 DELHI MUMBAI

Birth Centenary Seminar Rajendra Shah

It is evaluated by the critics that Rajendra Shah’s intensity of emotion and innovation in form and expression which set him apart as a poet of great significance. The mystical tone of his poetry stems from the tradition of great medieval masters like Narsinh Mehta, Kabir and Akho.

Sahitya Akademi, his work) and Prastuti (presentation of of Ravi Bhan saints of the Kabir Eastern Regional his lyrical and dramatic poems through tradition, and Nirav Patel, an excellent Centre Mumbai, music and dance). Vishwanath Prasad Dalit poet, brought out relevant aspects in collaboration Tiwari, President of Sahitya Akademi of Rajendra Shah’s poetry; while Hasit with Dharmasinh and eminent Hindi poet, chaired the Mehta, Kamal Vora, Jaydev Shukla, Desai University, inaugural ‘pranati’ session on 20 Harish Minashru, Manilal Patel, looked Naidad, Kapa- December 2013 at Nadiad. He engagingly at ‘main-stream’ aspects of his poetry. davanaj Svagat spoke on Indian ways of poetic In ‘Prastuti’, Amar Bhatt, well-known Samiti, Sardar communication. Sitakant Mahapatra, composer-singer, rendered many of Patel University, Jnanpith Awardee poet from Orissa, Rajendra Shah’s poems in music; and Vallabh Vidyanagar, U.T.S. Mahila Arts gave the key-note address. Sreenivasarao, Parul Shah, well-known dancer and College, Naidad and Balvant Parekh Secretary, Sahitya Aakademi welcomed teacher, led her troupe in presenting Centre for General Semantics, Vadodara, the guests and Sitanshu Yashaschandra, his poems through classical dance and the Rajendra Shah Birth Centenary eminent Gujarati author and Convenor ‘abhinaya’. Seminar, was organised from 20 to 22 of the Sahitya Akademi Gujarat Advisory A special feature of the event was December 2013 at Nadiad, Board presented the ‘bhoomika’ of the the warm and strong participation of Kapadavanaj, Vallabh Vidyanagar, seminar. Niranjan Bhagat, distinguished the entire town of Kapadavanaj, the Vadodara. modern poet of Gujarati, gave keynote poet’s home town. Vishwanath Prasad Eminent Gujarati authors including address commenting on basic concerns Tiwari was invited to open a memorial Niranjan Bhagat and eminent Indian of Rajendra Shah as a poet. On 22 room for the great Gujarati poet in writers from Hindi, Bengali and Oriya, December 2013, Mahavirsimh Chauhan, the school where Rajendrabhai took his Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari, President eminent Hindi critic, and Suman Shah, early education. of Sahitya Akademi, Sitakant Mahapatra, eminent Gujarati critic, discussed the The location, structure and eminent Oriya poet, Nabaneeta Deb larger context of Rajendra Shah’s work. functioning of the seminar pointed out Sen, eminent Bengali poet, and Jyotna Harish Padh, Vice-Chancellor of the S. to some of the ways in which language Milan, eminent Hindi novelist and poet, P. University and distinguished scientist, of poetry, music and dance, and interacted with other participants. Vice- chaired the session. Krishna Kimbahune, language of critical discourses moving Chancellor Harish Padh of Sardar Patel Regional Secretary of the Akademi’s across multiple layers and locations of University, Vice-Chancellor H. M. Desai Western Region proposed a vote of a society, could be understood and of the Dharmasimh Desai University thanks. used, and, creatively produced. of Technology, Kulichandra Yagnik, In ‘Pariprashna’ sessions over the former Vice Chancellor of North three days, some of the foremost Gujarati Gujarat University, and Mahavirsinh critics and poets critically evaluated Chauhan, its former Pro-Vice Rajendra Shah’s work and its context. Chancellor, participated in the seminar. These included Chandrakant Topiwala, The seminar focused on three Chadrakant Sheth, Shirish Panchal, Dilip aspects of reception of the poet’s work: Jhaveri, Raman Soni, Suman Shah. Dalpat Pranati (homage to the poet and his Padhiar, eminent poet who also is a times), Pariprashna (critical inquiry into guiding guru of the rural Gujarati ‘panth’

74 MUMBAI Aapanaa Rasgyna Rakheval. His paper examined in detail how deconstruction before it made headways in Gujarati literature was practised by Bhrugubhai Anjaria in his analytique of poems by eminent poet ‘Kant’. Making his presentation accessible and illuminating for the students and others, he brought out beautifully how good poetry and good criticism were mutually dependent. Post-lunch session began with musical presentation of five poems by the poet Svapansth. Sameer Bhatt presented his

L-R: Dhirubhai Mehta, Sitanshu Yashaschandra and Chandrakant Topiwala paper titled “Svapanstha: Pratibdhdhatano Kavya Svara”. His paper gave a lucid and engrossing analytique of the poet’s work and its larger context in Marxian Symposium Shatabdi Smaran Parva and Gandhian ideologies. His critical analysis included a fair critique of the symposium of “Shatabdi Smaran of select paragraphs from Yagnik’s poet. AParva” was organized by Sahitya prose. Sitanshu Yashaschandra then The students beautifully recited Akademi in association with Ramji Aasar presented his paper “Amrutlal Yagnik : philosophical text before Kanti Patel School, Ghatkopar, Mumbai at the Abhayaachaarynu Lokdharmi Gadya” presented his paper Bhupendra Baalkrishna school’s auditorium on 23 November analyzed A B Yagnik’s literary work in Trivedi: Advait darshaof Bhupendra 2013. context of his great contribution to Trivedi nanaa upaasak. He noted the study It celebrated four eminent Gujarati pedagogy and studnets’ psychology. He undertaken by Bhupendra Trivedi of authors, ‘Svapnastha’, a pre-Independence also evaluated the author-educationist’s medieval poet Gyani-poet Akho and poet of social commitment, eminent work in the context of the place of poet Narhari. He dwelt in the subtle critic Bhrugurai Anjanria, Gujarati language in a cosmopolitan city relation between the philosophy and eminent educationist and essayist Prin. like Mumbai. poetry. Amrutlal Yajnik, and Prof. Bhupendra The second speaker, Chandrakant The symposium ended with vote of Trivedi, a scholar of medieval Gujarati Topiwala, spoke on Bhrugurai Anjaria: thanks by Kamal Vora. literature. The symposium had four eminent Gujarati writers as speakers Sitanshu Yashshchandra (Vadodara), Chandrakant Topiwala (Ahmedabad), Kanti Patel Meet the Author (Mumbai) and Sameer Bhatt (Rajkot). Kamal Vora, member of Gujarati Shirish Panchal Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi welcomed the guests. Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office, Mumbai, in collaboration with Bhavnagar Dhirubhai Mehta, made introductory Gadyasabha and ‘Saitya Vartul’ Gujarati Department, M.K. Bhavnagar University, remarks and a Gujarati poet Udayan Bhavnagar, organized a ‘Meet the Author’ programme with Shirish Panchal, Thakkar narrated a fable indicating how eminent Gujarati fiction writer and critic, held on 31 December 2013 at mother-tongues were being erased in Bhavnagar. our educational system. First session began with a reading

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 75 Literary Forum Avishkar Rekha Surya

Bhikubhai Parekh Gujarati Writer Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, organized an ‘Avishkar’ programme, on 25 October 2013 in Mumbai Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Rekha Surya, celebrated Hindustani light classical with Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara and Balvant singer. Parekh Centre for General Semantics, Vadodara, organized a Literary Forum, on 3 October 2013 at Vadodara, with Bhikubhai Parekh.

Through My Window Gokuldas Prabhu on Pundalik Naik

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Directorate of Arts & Culture, Goa organized a ‘Through My Window’ programme on 17 October 2013, Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellow: Srichampa at Goa, with Gokuldas Prabhu, eminent Konkani writer and critic, who spoke of the life and works Pundalik Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, organized a Naik, distinguished Konkani litterateur. ‘Literary Forum’, on 25 October 2013 in Mumbai, with Sophana Srichampa, a linguist and scholar and Ananda Kavisandhi Coomaraswamy Fellow from Thailand. Nutan Sakhardande Konkani Poet

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Directorate of Arts & Culture, Goa organized a ‘Kavisandhi’ programme on 18 October 2013, at Goa with Nutan Sakhardande, eminent Konkani poet.

Kavisandhi Rashmi Ramani Sindhi Poet People and Books Ketan Mehta Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Sindhudi Youth Wing, Nagpur organized a ‘Kavisandhi’ Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration programme on 27 October 2013 at Nagpur, with Rashmi with Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara and Balvant Ramani, eminent Sindhi poet. Parekh Centre for General Semantics, Vadodara, organized a ‘People and Books’ programme with Ketan Mehta on Nari Chetna 5 October 2013, in Vadodara. Sindhi Poets

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Centre Mumbai, in collaboration with Indian Institute of Sindhology, Adipur, organized a Nari Chetna programme on 27 October 2013 at Adipur. Vimmi Sadarangani, (Chair), Bharati Sadarangani, Pushpa Bhambhani, Seema Bhambhani, Anita Tejwani, Champa Chetnani, Manju Mirwani, Komal Dayalani, Rita Chhatpar, Ritu Bhatia and Sangeeta Khilwani participated.

76 MUMBAI Birth Centenary Seminar Harumal Sadarangani ‘Khadim’

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office, Mumbai, in collaboration with National Council for promotion of Sindhi Language, New Delhi & Sindhi Adbi Sangat, Indore, organized a Birth Centenary Seminar on Harumal Sadarangani ‘Khadim’, held on 23- 24 November 2013, at Indore. Krishna Kimbahune, Regional Secretary, Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai welcomed the participants. Prem Prakash, Convenor, Sindhi Advisory Board, delivered inaugural address and Laxman Bhatia ‘Komal’ delivered keynote address. Ramesh Varlyani, was the guest of honour and Vasdev Mohi delivered presidential address. Nirmal Goplani, Director, NCPSL, proposed vote of thanks. One of the sessions of the seminar in progress

Seminar Post Independence Sindhi Drama

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Sindhi Academy, Delhi, organized a seminar on ‘Post Independence Sindhi Drama’ held on 5-6 December 2013 at Delhi. Lakhmi Khilani delivered the inaugural address and Prem Prakash, Convenor Sindhi Advisory Board, gave the keynote address. M.K. Jetley presented the presidential address and Bhanu Bharati was the guest of honour. Sindhu Bhagia Mishra, Secretary, Sindhi Academy, proposed vote of thanks.

Prem Prakash, Bhanu Bharati, M.K. Jetley and Lakhmi Khilani

Literary Forum Sindhi Writers

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Sindhi Adabi Sabha, Pune organized a ‘Literary Forum’ on 12 October 2013, at Pune, wherein Govardhan Sharma ‘Ghayal’ (Chair), Indira Poonawala ‘Shabnam’, Neelam Chhabria, ‘C.T. Keswani Lal’, Vijaya Teksinghani, Saroj Bharwani, Baldev Budhrani ‘Deep’ and Harkishan Samthani participated.

Participants in the Sindhi writers meet

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 77 Literary Forum Literary Forum Atul Dodiya Visual Artist Konkani WomenWriters

Sahitya Akademi, ‘Literary Forum’ entitled Regional Office, A “Konkani Mahila Sahitya Mumbai, in Darshan Ani Chintan” was collaboration with organised in association with Maharaja Sayajirao The Saraswat Mahila Samaj, University, Vadodara Gamdevi and The Kanara and Balvant Parekh Saraswat Association, Tardeo, Centre for General on 16 November 2013 at the Semantics, Vadodara, organized a ‘Literary Forum’ K.S.A. Hall, Talmakiwadi, with Atul Dodiya on 2 October 2013 at Vadodara. Tardeo, Mumbai. This event brought three of the most creative Sadhana Kamat, Member, Advisory Board welcomed and contemplative minds of India, all from Gujarat and conducted the programme. Kamat introduced to talk about relationship between visual arts, cinema Chandrashekhar Shenoy who presided over the function; and literature with special reference to contemporary Dr. Shenoy, in his speech, exhorted the writers to get in Gujarati Society. Atul Dodiya explained how his touch with various literary magazines to publish the writings canvases saw words as a part of creative process. in Konkani, also to translate outstanding books from other Dodiya said that since at the age of 10, he aspired languages into Konkani. to be an artist and it remained his subject of interests. Aruna Rao, a poet in Konkani recited some of her Dodiya used words or fonts in his paintings. Dodiya poems. The poems dealt with the subjects such as nature, felt that it was very complex practice to give language devotion and life in general, which were highly appreciated. to visual art. When a poet writes in Gujarati or any Indu Gersappe who was honoured by Goa Konknai other language, he or she will talk about it in same Sahitya Akademi, presented some of her poignant language too but for an artist it is not that simple. poems about women, some memorable characters came Visual art has no language. International and national across in her life and the hazardous changes seen in the artists like Petr Mondrain, Gehard Richter, Jasper environment. Johns, Joseph Beuys, David Hockney, Raja Ravi Varma, Nirmala Savardekar presented her well researched Nandlal Bose, Bhupen Khakhkhar and Satyajit Ray article on ‘Lullabies’, and other children’s poems composed have influenced him significantly. by women at home while looking after their children. Rekha While showing slides of his different works where Rao read out her moving story about a woman’s yearning literature is connected directly or indirectly, Dodiya for diamond earings and how she is unable to fulfil her pointed out how poets like Sitanshu Yashaschandra simple desire. Indu Gersappe and Chandrama Bijur rendered and Labh Shankar Thaker gave him great confidence critical appreciation of ‘Aruna Rao’s poems’ and ‘Muktabai to experiment. In many of his works, he put poetry Mangalore’s Plays’ respectively. Both the presentations were written by these literary giants. Apart from these poets based on extensive research. like Rajendra Shukla, Manoj Khanderia, Ravji Patel, Margaret and Blesica Fernandes along with Krishna Kamal Vora have been on Dodiya’s canvas. He used Kamat presented a ‘Cantar’ (Goan Konkani song) originally Western writers’ quotes and poetry as well as Gandhi’s written, set to music and sung by Kamat De Assolna quotations when he did a show on Bhupen Khakkar. (Ramakant Kamat), a well-known theatrics from Goa. A minute observation of literary art gives him freedom The programme ended with a vote of thanks by to express the way he wants as he realised that poets Sadhana Kamat. or writers also were multi-layered and he followed similar pattern of expression in his works.

78 MUMBAI Kavisandhi & Literary Forum Sindhi Writers

Sahitya Akademi, Regional Office Mumbai, in collaboration with Sindhi Sahitya Academi and Madhya Pradesh Sanskriti Parishad organized a ‘Kavisandhi’ programme with Mohan Himthani, noted Sindhi poet and also a ‘Literary Forum’ with Sindhi short story writers on 9 November 2013 in Bhopal. The Forum was chaired by Khiman Mulani, Member, Sindhi Advisory Board. Mohan Himthani read out his poems in the ‘Kavisandhi programme. The short stories were read out in the Literary Forum’ by Swati Kewlani. Samiksha Lacchhawani’s poems Kavisandhi poet Mohan Himthani at the centre reflected the self confidence among the adolescents and the short Khiman Mulani and Swati Kewlani with him story which she read out were very well appreciated

Through My Window Kamla Goklani on Dholan Rahi

In collaboration with Sudhar Sabha Vidya Samiti, Ajmer Sahitya Akademi organized a ‘Through My Window’ programme on 10 November 2013 at Ajmer with Kamla Goklani, eminent Sindhi writer and poet, who spoke on the life and works of Dholan Rahi, veteran Sindhi Poet. Kamla Goklani said that Dholan Rahi is one of the distinguished poet in Sindhi. He has continuously been experimenting poetry in the forms of ghazal, geet, nazm, doha, sertha, quafi etc. Almost all his collections of poetry were well received and awarded. His ghazals have been set to tune by popular musicians. Besides being a remarkable poet and writer, Sri Rahi is also Dolan Rahi and Kamla Goklani a very good human being, she added.

Documentary Film on Vinda Karandikar

Screening of its Documentary Films on distinguished Indian writers was held on 24 and 25 December 2013 at the Akademi Regional Centre, Mumbai. Indra Nath Chaudhuri, distinguished critic inaugurated the event. Arun Khopkar was the chief guest. Prof. Chaudhury, in his introductory speech reminisced his meeting with Karandikar whose documentary was to be released. Khopkar said that making a film on a poet such as Vinda must have been challenging. After the speeches the documentary film on Vinda was screened. The documentary films on Khushwant Singh, Nirmal Verma and Gulzar were also screened the next day. Arun Khopkar and Indra Nath Chaudhuri

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 79 NEW PUBLICATIONS

ENGLISH Hindi Kahani Sangraha SINDHI History of Assamese Literature Ed. by Bhisham Sahni Sanrachanavad, Bade Sanrachanavad Ain Supplementary Volume Tr. Smt. S. Malathi Sagara Purbi Kavyashastra Ed. Gobinda Prasad Sarma Pp.424, Rs.250 By Gopi Chand Narang Pp. 160, Rs 90 ISBN: 81-260-4384-9 Tr. Hiro Thakur ISBN: 978-81-260-4421-4 Pp. 632, Rs.300 Kuvempu (Monograph) ISBN: 978-81-260-4153-4 Chakma Folk and Modern Literature By Prabhushankara Comp. & Ed. Niranjan Chakma Tr. Prof. H.S. Komalesha TAMIL Translation Editor: Saroj Chaudhuri Pp.120, Rs.50 Anandakanda (Monograph) Pp. 256, Rs 130 ISBN: 978-81-260-4386-5 (Betageri Krishna Sharma) ISBN: 978-81-260-4219-7 By Raghavendra Patil R.K. Narayan (Monograph) Rs.50 By Ranga Rao Kuvempu (Monograph) ISBN: 978-81-260-0810-5 Tr. Geetha Shenoy By Prabhushankara Pp.104, Rs.50 Sivagnana Munivar (Monograph) Tr. Prof. H.S. Komalesha ISBN: 978-81-260-4387-3 Pp.120, Rs.50 By T. N. Ramachandran, Pp. 128, Rs. 50 Uriyutiruva Hoobana Mising Folk Tales (A.W. Telugu novel Kalutunna Poolathota) ISBN: 978-81-260-4122-0. Comp. & Ed. Tabu Ram Taid By Syed Saleem Pp. 184, Rs 100 Tr. G.Veerabhadragouda Puthiya Tamil Ilakkiya Varalaru – Vol I ISBN: 978-81-260-4439-9 Pp.174, Rs.100 Ed. Sirpi Balasubramaniam & Neela ISBN: 81-260-4114-5 Padmanabhan, Nalayira Divya Prabandham Pp.432, Rs. 450 (Punjabi classic) U.V. Swaminatha Iyer (Monograph) ISBN: 81-260-4360-6. By Aazhvars By K.V. Jagannathan Tr. Vengarai Parthasarathy Tr. Krishnamurthy Hanur Puthiya Tamil Ilakkiya Varalaru – Vol II Pp.184, Rs.100 Pp.78, Rs.50 Ed. Sirpi Balasubramaniam & Neela ISBN: 81-260-4381-4 ISBN: 81-260-4112-9 Padmanabhan, Pp.464, Rs. 500 The Life and Works of Maharshi Vitthal Vyasaraya Ballal (Monograph) ISBN: 81-260-4361-3. Ramji Shinde By G.N. Upadhya By G.M. Pawar Pp.132, Rs.50 Puthiya Tamil Ilakkiya Varalaru – Vol III Tr. Sudhakar Marathe ISBN: 978-81-260-4388-1 Ed. Sirpi Balasubramaniam & Neela Pp.726, Rs. 320 Padmanabhan, ISBN: 978-81-260-4064-3 MAITHILI Pp.976, Rs. 850, Bangla Galpa Sankalan Vol. I ISBN: 81-260-4362-0 Yashodhara Carite Edited by Asit Kumar Bandopadhyay Candasasana Prasanga Tr. Ashok Jha TELUGU By Janna Rs.210 Madhurantakam Rajaram Tr. TRS Sharma ISBN: 978-81-260-4274-6 (Monograph) Pp.152, Rs.95 by Singamaneni Narayana ISBN: 81-260-4380-6 MALAYALAM Pp.112, Rs.50 Sirisampige (A.W. Kannada Play) ISBN: 978-81-260-4382-8 GUJARATI By Chandrashekhar Kambar Tr. Sudhakaran Ramanthalli Gunvantrai Acharya (Monograph) R. K. Narayan Pp.96, Rs.75 By Varsha Adalja (Monograph) ISBN: 81-260-4397-2 Pp. 116, Rs.50 By Ranga Rao Tr. Veeraji ISBN: 978-81-260-3259-4 MARATHI Pp.120, Rs.50 Bharatiya Dalit Sahitya HINDI Compiled by Sharankumar Limbale ISBN: 978-81-260-4389-X Moksha Aur Anya Kahaniyan Pp. 500, Rs.230 by Juan Alfredo Pinto Saavedra ISBN: 978-81-260-4401-6 Rajinder Singh Bedi Tr. Sonya Surabhi (Monograph) Pp. 108, Rs. 125 Striyanche Marathitil Nibandhlekhan By Varis Alvi ISBN: 978-81-260-4311-8 Compiled by Vidyut Bhagwat Tr. Puttaparthi Nagapadmini Pp. 448, Rs.270 Pp.96, Rs.50 KANNADA ISBN: 978-81-260-4156-5 ISBN: 978-81-260-4390-3 Harinakshi (A.W. Punjabi short stories) ODIA Seminar Papers on Unnavalakshmi By Mohan Bhandari Odia Shishu Kishore Kahani Narayana’s Malapalli Tr. G.N.Ranganath Rao Comp. & Ed. Birendra Mohanty Edited by Koduri Sriramamurthy Pp.168. Rs.100 Pp. 288, Rs 190 Pp.172, Rs.140 ISBN: 81-260-4113-7 ISBN: 978-812604424-5 ISBN: 81-260-4385-7

80 NEW PUBLICATIONS KOLKATA

150th Birth Anniversary Seminar on Swami Vivekananda

ahitya Akademi organised a seminar key figure in the Indian philisophical atmosphere of Swami Vivekananda Son Sawami Vivekananda on the tradition of Vedanta and yoga to the and how he went beyond that. He occcasion of his 150th birth centenary Western world. In colonial India, he started with the pattern of European in collaboration with Ramakrishna served as a source of nationalism. society in the colonial India and the Mission Institute of Culture, Golpark, The key-note address was delivered significance of the emergence of Swami Kolkata, on 25 & 26 November 2013 by Sabyasachi Bhattacharya. In his speech, Vivekananda. Then he went on to point at Golpark, Kolkata. Sri Bhattacharya stressed on the four out the difference between that society After the Vedic chanting of the significant factors which played vital and that of the then Indian aristocrats. monastic members of Ramakrishna roles in shaping life of Swamiji. In the Then he pointed out the aspects in Mission Institute of Culture, the budding years, music was the guiding which Vivekananda was exceptional. welcome address was delivered by K. star for him. Later stressed on the Prof. Bhattacharya also emphasized on Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya religious tolerance. Then his hold in relationships between contemporary Akademi. In his brief speech, he referred literary figures and Swamiji. He further to the significance of the life, works spoke about the scientific bent of and preachings of this great son of Vivekananda’s mind. While speaking India. His whole life has been a source from the chair, Alok Roy compared of burning of inspiration for us; he the time of Swamiji with today’s social fought against blind conservatism and atmosphere. He opined that Swamiji superstition. His stress on the basic roll tried to bring a synthesis of the East of ‘vivek’ (the heart) is important as and the West. well as his constant striving for upholding In the second session, papers were the rich tradition and heritage of India. presented by Sitanath Goswami and While delivering the inaugural Tara Chatterjea with Pravrajika address of the seminar, Swami Bhaswaraprana in the chair. The topic Mityamuktananda, stressed on different of this session was “Vedanta Philosophy facets of Swamiji’s life. A towering and Religious Reformation”. All of the figure of strength, an educationst par literature became stronger. Later he speakers as well as the chairperson excellence and an ardent student of influenced the institutional as well as spoke on the main features of Swamiji’s philosophy, he followed the path of organisational structures of Buddihism. stance on the Vedanta. Swamiji divinity. He opined that any person Lastly, he emphasized on him as an emphasized on the teachings of Advaita who will follow his words would make educationist. Vedanta. Smt. Chatterjea, in her paper, his life perfect. Ramkumar While speaking from the chair, Swami referred to the concept of Adiguru Mukhopadhyay, Convenor, Bengali Suparnanda said on the fact that the Sankaracharya in this regard. She also Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, was Ramakrishnites are a non-sectarian sect spoke on the notion towards karma. the chief guest of the inaugural session. led by Swami Vivekananda. The vote Another speaker, Goswami explained He briefly delineated the life of Sawami of thanks was proposed by Goutam the nature of Brahma in detail while Vivekananda, the wandering monk. He Paul, Officer in charge, Sahitya Akademi reading his paper. The chairperson travelled extensively throughout India Eastern Region. assimilated both of the speakers’ views on foot and absorbed the essence of In the first session, papers were while summing up. the diverse cultures of India. A reservoir presented by Somnath Bhattacharya and In the third session, papers were of the great Indian tradition, he Sandipan Sen with Alok Roy in the chair. presented by Amitrasudan Bhattacharya meditated at the last point of India The topic of this session was “Swami and Subrata Mukhopadhyay with towards the South and dreamt of the Vivekananda and His Time”. Prof. Sen Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay in the chair. India as a unified whole. He was the spoke on the contemporary cultural The topic of this session was “Swami

58 KOLKATA Vivekananda and His Contemporaries”. Swamiji’s insistence on the fact that the composer. He presented a live Bhattacharya spoke on the relationship medium of education should be the demonstration accompanied by Nandan between Swamiji and Rabindranath mother-tongue. He also stressed on the Sengupta on esraj and Gautam Roy on Tagore. He also referred to the roll importance of education for the pakhawaj. While demonstrating, Sri of Bhagini Nivedita in this context. In downtrodden people. Sourin Chaudhuri was accompanied by the paper of Sri Mukhopadhyay, a Bhattacharya, while speaking from the Nishaant Singh on esraj. picture of the contemporary life was chair summed up the speeches. In the valedictory session, the graphically brought out. Relationship In the fifth session, papers were address was delivered by Swami between Girischandra and Swamiji as presented by Biswajit Roy and Tyagrupananda. In his address, he well as the bond between the Rabishankar Bal with Ujjalkumar pointed out the significant stages of

L-R: K. Sreenivasarao, Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay, Sabyasachi Bhattacharya, Swami Suparnanda and Swami Nityamuktananda

Ramakrishnites were stressed upon. Majumdar in the chair. The topic of Swamiji’s life. Noted scholar Bharati While speaking from the chair, Sirshendu this session was “Swami Vivekananda: Ray, while speaking from the chair, Mukhopadhyay opined that now-a-days Literary Contribution”. In this session, summed up the papers presented by lots are speaking about Swamiji but both of the speakers stressed on the the scholars in the two days. She pointed only a few are following. He also philosophical elements and insights in the out the significant information which referred to great influential personality writings of Swamiji. Majumdar also was brought before the audience. of Swamiji. spoke on the influence of Swamiji’s Ramkumar Mukhopadhyay proposed Sourin Bhattacharya in the chair, writings on the next generation of writers. the vote of thanks. Nrisingha Prasad Bhaduri presented his In the sixth session, papers were presented paper. He compared the educational by Debasish Roy and Sarbananda ideals of earlier times with that of Chaudhuri with Sudhir Chakrabarti in today and also referred to sacred the chair. The topic of this session was relationship existed between the student “Swami Vivekananda: Contribution in and the teacher in vedic ages. He also the Field of Music”. While Sri Roy refereed to the educational ideals of spoke on the songs written by Swamiji, Swamiji. Prof. Soumitra Basu spoke Sri Chaudhuri spoke on the use of tals about the nature of educational policy in the songs of Swamiji. Roy focused which the British wanted to introduce on Swamiji as a performer, a musical in the colonial India. He also referred theorist as well as a composer and as

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 59 Birth Centenary Seminar Basant Kumar Satpathy

ahitya Akademi Basant Satpathy should reach the Basant Satpathy and interpreted in S organised a larger audience beyond Odisha, said different perspectives. seminar on the Harish Trivedi. The eminent critic and A book entitled Sanchayan, compiled occasion of the former Professor of Delhi University, and edited by Basant Kumar Satpathy birth centenary Dr. Trivedi said that Basant Satpathy was was released on the occasion. Introducing celebration of not only a fiction writer, rather a complete the guests, Gourahari Das, Convener of eminent Odia man of letters who had a commitment Odia Advisory Board said that Basant litterateur Basant to humanity. Besides stories, he has Satpathy was not only aware of Indian Kumar Satpathy on written plays, criticism, compiled poems, tradition, but also had a deep knowledge 15 December 2013 etc. His stories are humorous and laced of Western culture. K. Sreenivasarao, at IDCOL auditorium in Bhubaneswar. with satire. In praise of Odia literature, Secretary of Sahitya Akademi, proposed Inaugurating the seminar, Sitakant the literary sky of Odisha is studded a vote of thanks. Mahapatra, Fellow of Sahitya Akademi, with stars, he added. The programme was followed by said that Basant’s stories are like the Sumanyu Satpathy discussed his paper presentations on life and literature stories told by grand-mothers – simple father’s contributions to literature in his of Basant Kumar Satpathy and about and captivating. Sri Mahapatra also said key-note address. “At a time when poets his multifaceted talent. Presenting a paper that three of his favourite stories of in Odisha were in demand, Basant on lthe personality and literature of Basant Satpathy are “Eka Lalsmruti”, Satpathy started writing short stories,” Basant Kumar Satpathy, Durgaprasanna “Gote Kathachampara” and “Kani chian said Prof. Satpathy. Along with human Panda spoke about his childhood and and Kaatha”. He read out two of lives, Basant Satpathy also wrote stories his environment, and also discussed about Satpathy’s letters written to him and on birds and animals, showing empathy his stories “Ajaga Gha” and “Nidasrayee.” requested Sahitya Akademi to publish towards all living beings. Sumanyu Gouranga Charan Dash in his an anthology of English translation of indicted into the short story writings of presentation said that Basant Satpathy Basant Satpathy’s stories in English translation. Vishwanth Prasad Tiwari chaired the inaugural session. In his presidential address, Prof. Tiwari said that love and compassion are found in Basant’s stories. Writer never writes for himself. He writes for the society. That is why society remembers the writer and celebrates his centenaries. Prof. Tiwari discussed Satpathy’s story “Nidasrayee” from different perspectives.

There is no compassion in Satpathy’s stories as it may sometime arise out of arrogance but Basant was humble

Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari delivering presidential address L-R: K. Sreenivasarao, Sumanyu Satpathy, Sitakant Mahapatra and Harish Trivedi

60 KOLKATA was a man without an ego. There is no compassion in Satpathy’s stories as it may sometime arise out of arrogance but Basant was humble, he added. Sanghamitra Mishra discussed about his short plays in her presentation whereas Bijayanand Singh discussed about the humorous aspect of his stories, citing illustrations from a few of his stories “Gotae Alu” and “Nanguli.” Sourindra Barik chaired this session. He stated that Satpathy could give a new form to a situation and create a memorable story; he loved and respected life till his end and shared his personal experiences with Basanta Kumar Satpathy, who was his teacher. L-R: Sheela Borthakur, Nirupama Mishra and Karabi Deka Hazarika In the second session, presenting a paper on multifaceted talents of Basant Assamese writers Kumar Satpathy, Jatindra Kumar Nayak Asmita discussed him as a translator. He translated a number of plays. Even his translations, Nirupama Borgohain and other leading women writers reflect a tinge of Odia culture in them so as to make the writings pragmatic Toshoprabha Kalita, Nirupama Misra and Malini and acceptable to Odia people. ahitya Akademi organized a ‘Asmita’ Kalita, the recipient of Akademi Bal Krushna Chandra Pradhan discussed Sprogramme in collaboration with Sahitya Puraskar in Assamese, spoke Satpathy’s feature articles and analyzed Sodou Asam Lekhika Samaroh Samiti, on her experiences as a writer, which the dimensions of Basant Satpathy’s Kahara Branch, Kajiranga, Assam, on was followed by her recitation of a stories, i.e, social, cultural, political and 1 December 2013 at Kajiranga, Assam. long piece by Rabindranath. Smt Misra, aesthetics. Gopal Krushna Rath chaired The inaugural address was delivered another award winning writer who the session. by Shila Borthakur. Satyakam writes for children, elaborated her Delivering valedictory address, Dash Borthakur, Member, Assamese preoccupations as a writer who is Behur discussed Satpathy’s literary and Advisory Board of Sahitya Akademi, always serious about how to explore personal life and observed that literature introduced the writers. the complex child psychology in her was a shelter for him to take rest while Renowned Sahitya Akademi writings, especially in her novels for fighting his personal sufferings and award-winning writer, Nirupama children. Dr Malini, in her speech, difficulties. In his last days, literature was Borgohain and other leading women spoke about how a myth gets recreated his only friend, Sri Benhur added. writers Toshoprabha Kalita, Nirupama in many of her novels, while she also Pitabasa Routray chaired this Misra and Malini were invited to read narrated how she had been helped valedictory session and Banoj Tripathy out from their works. immensely by her background in the proposed a vote of thanks. Karabi Deka Hazarika, Convenor field of science. The interaction session of the Assamese Advisory Board, was lively and thought provoking. Smt chaired the programme while writer Dutta, the chief guest of the occasion, Binita Dutta was present as the chief besides focusing on the history and guest of the occasion. achievements of women’s contribution Smt Borgohain, in her speech, in the field of literature and society, commented on the trends of feministic she also recited a few poems of her thoughts in some of her novels. Smt recent creations.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 61 Literary Forum Multilingual Writers’ Meet Sumathanath Ghosh ahitya Akademi organized a S‘Writers’ Meet’ in collaboration Sahitya Akademi organized a ‘Birth- with Bodo Sahitya Sabha on 26 and centenary Literary Forum’ on the occassion 27 October 2013 at Vivekananda of the birth centenary of a noted Bengali Kendra Institute of Culture, writer Sumathanath Ghosh in its auditorium Guwahati. in Kolkata on 21 October 2013. Lakshmi Nandan Bora, eminent The Forum was chaired by Arun Kumar Assamese writer in the chair Basu. Sabitendranath Ray, a renowned presented his presidential speech who said “Indian languages are publisher, spoke on the zeal and enthusiasm in peril due to globalisation and the domination of English language. of Sumatanath Ghosh in the field of To survive and to escape from onslaughts, writers of Indian publishing which was noteworthy. Urmi languages should take extra care to enrich their languages, literature Raychoudhury, Professor of Bengali, and culture.” Kameswar Brahma, President, Bodo Sahitya Sabha University of Calcutta spoke on the short was the chief guest and Premananda Muchahary, Convenor, Bodo stories of Sri Ghosh. The varied themes Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi delivered the introductory address. of his stories can easily attract the notice In his speech, he presented a brief sketch of the Bodo literary of the readers. Some of the important tradition. He introduced the writers to the audience and discussed stories of this collection are “Pratham about the distinctive qualities of eminent Bodo writers and the Prem” (First Love), “Chhabi” (The Picture), need of the time. “Jatilata” (The Complexity) etc. Gourahari Das, Convener, Odia Advisory Board, Sahitya Sumita Chakraborty, Former Professor, Akademi chaired the first session of the Meet. In this session University of Burdwan spoke on the Bibuljyoti Saikia (Assamese), Prabal Kumar Basu (Bengali), Uttam novels of Sumathanath. She opined that Brahma (Bodo), Raman Jha (Maithili) and Arjun Charan Hembrarn women characters played important roles (Santali) read out poems. Short stories were read by Haobam in his novels of Sumathnath. Novels written Satyabati Devi (Manipur) and Madhav Burathoki (Nepali). Pranabjyoti in the later phase of his life tend towards Narzary proposed the vote of thanks of the session. the tragic theme. While talking about the Second session was chaired by Bina Thakur, Convener, Maithili plot of his novels, she observed that the Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Poems were read by Rudra setting of Bankashrote is city and suburbs Singha Matak (Assamese), Nilima Thakuria Haque (Assamese), whereas Mahanadi is of rural. Amalendu Shekhar Pathak (Maithili), Amaresh Patnaik (Odia), The speakers also focussed on the Bhupendra Adhikari (Nepali), R.K. Hemabati Devi, (Manipuri) and translations by Sumathanath as he translated Nabin Malia Bora (Bodo). Short stories read by Swapnamay famous English novels like Three Musketeers, Chakraborty (Bengali), Manik Hasda (Santali) and Deosankar Navin David Copperfield, Ivanhoe etc. Sri Basu spoke (Maithili). about the popularity of Sumathanath The third session was chaired by H. Behari Singh, Convener, Ghosh and his social awareness. At the Manipuri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi who said that folklore end, Ramkumar Mukhoadhyay, Convenor, has an important role in sustaining the mainstream literature. The Bengali Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, Mahabharata and the Ramayana are also the narrative of folklore. while he proposed the vote of thanks, The poets who read out new poems include Sameer Tanti expressed his hope that Sumathanath may (Assamese), Bikas Sarkar (Bengali), Kshetri Rajen (Manipuri), be rediscovered in a new way in future Narbahadur Dahal (Nepali), Bimal Jena (Odia) and Anpa Marandi by Bengali readers as well as readers of (Santali). Short stories were read out by Nayan Kumar Medhi other languages. (Assamese), Gobinda Basumatary (Bodo) and Prakash Mahapatra (Odia). The valedictory speech was delivered by Bisweswar Basumatary, Vice President, Bodo Sahitya Sabha.

62 KOLKATA Meet the Author Rajendra Kishore Panda

Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘Meet the author’ programme with eminent Odia litterateur Rajendra Kishore Panda on 23 November 2013 at IDCOL auditorium at Bhubaneswar. Outlining his poetic voyage Rajendra Kishore Panda spoke about the paradoxical destiny of a poet which is contradictory, yet complimentary. He also recited few of his poems. Known for his magnificent style and deeper human sensibilities, Sri Panda created a formidable panorama of poetry in Odia language. Hundreds of his readers and admirers attended the programme and listened to his poems with deep interest. Taking the audience to a sonorous zone of poetic silence, Sri Panda said that his poems are his speeches and he wants to say nothing except his poetry. He recited his poems on the themes of life culture and society. After the mesmerizing poetry recitation, many writers, critics, researchers and youths interacted with the author. At the end accomplished Odissi dancer Lingaraj Pradhan presented Rajendra Kishore’s poem “Karna Banam Krishna” (Karna Vs Krishna) in dance. Sri Lingaraj, as a dancer flawlessly transformed the poem into a visual delight. The choreography was designed by Guru Bichitrananda Swain and the musical score was recorded by veteran Odissi musician and musicologist Guru Ramahari Das and rhythm composition was by Guru Dhaneswar Swain. The dance performance was visualised and conducted by poet Kedar Mishra.

People and Books G.B. Patnaik

Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘People and Books’ programme with G. B. Patnaik on 24 November 2013 at Bhubaneswar. Justice G.B Patnaik said that we grow with books from the early childhood. He went on to introduce Madhu Barnabodha, a nursury primer, which was one of its kind in Odisha during pre-Independence period. During his school days, Patnaik was inspired by Radhanath Ray’s Darbar, Mitralabha etc. Among other books he read include, Sital Bag’s book, My Life, M. C. Chagla’s Roses in December, Jawaharlal Neheru’s Discovery of India, Nilomani Routray’s Smruti o Anubhuti, Gangadhar Rath’s Bhuli Nahin, J. P. Das’s Desa Kala Patra etc. which inspired his life, he said. He was a bit nostalgic when he spoke about Daffodils. He had read about this flower in his schools and returned to it in poems of J. P. Das. However he came across the real flower much later while travelling in London. He also hailed J. B. Patnaik, politician turned writer for his anthology of essays Bachaspati Mohodaya. This is a book of substance, he added. Addressing the galaxy of writers and students, Sri Patnaik stated, “Writers can mould the society through their powerful writings.” He went on giving number of examples when literature has taken central stage in bringing about changes. He stays connected with Odisha and its people through literature as books are never failing friends.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 63 Symposium The Bodo and the Literature: Quest for Survival

ahitya Akademi organized a Professor, Bodo Ssymposium on ‘The Bodo and the Department, Bodoland Literature: Quest for Survival’ on 25 University. She opined that October 2013 at Rangia College, the journey of Bodo Kampup, Assam. literature is mostly of the The keynote address was delivered relentless effort of 20th by Premananda Muchahary, Convenor century writers who of Bodo Advisory Board, Sahitya expressed themselves Akademi. In the speech, he highlighted through their writings in some major issues of Bodos relating Assamese and Bangla to the survival of literature. He said, scripts. The role of “It is the role of new generation to missionaries in 19th century led by Rev. develop Bodo language at par with Sidney Endle is worth mentioning. He the readers. the developed languages.” Bodo wrote the Kachary Grammar, a book of P. C. Basumatary chaired the achieved the status of modern Indian grammar of Bodo language and culture. second session and the first paper, language and constitutional status in Some important books of this age are “Struggling of Bodo Literature for the 8th schedule. Discussion on literature Boroni Fisa O-Aien, Khonthai-Methai, Survival,” was presented by Birupaksha and finding critical issues can bring Hathorkhi-Hala Olongbar etc which have Giri Basumatary. He dwelt on the out the possibilities to develop the expanded the horizon of Bodo literature. survival of Bodo literature as seen literature, observed by him. Today, Bodo literature requires analytical from the literary and historical Jogesh Kakati, Principal, Rangia and critical writings, she concluded. perspectives. Some critics consider that College, the guest of honour in his The topic of the third paper was the contribution made by the speech insisted on the learning of “Beauty in Bodo Literature – An missionaries to Bodo language is a multiple languages in the state for Overview” presented by Birhash Giri valuable contribution to the literary better communication. He emphasized Basumatary. He spoke about the ancient development. In the beginning of 20th on the question of survival of some Indian literature as well as the Western century, some Bodo writers started minority languages like Bodo in near literary tradition. He referred to the writing in the language and Gurudev future. It is the duty of the next aesthetic beauty in Bodo poetry and its Kalicharan Brahma’s social reformation generation to use mother tongue at usage of images and symbols. He said movement took an important turn. all places irrespective of any situation “Modern Bodo poet Prosenjit Brahma Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma also met and time, he opined.. focuses on social and economic condition the Simons Commission in 1927-28 Swarna Prabha Chainary, Associate of Bodo’s in his poetry.” at Shillong to save the Bodo language. Professor, Bodo Department, Gauhati The topic of the fourth paper was After a gap of a decade, Mohinimohan University in her speech highlighted “Readers’ Response in Bodo Literature” Brahma wrote Laisi and Okhafwr Laisi some issues and challenges ahead of which was presented by Somaina was published from Cotton College the Bodo society to keep Bodo Basumatary. The paper focused on the to promote Bodo literature. In 1953, language alive and in practice. She also reader’s response to the writings of Bibar learning in Bodo started with the chaired the first session and spoke Muga (Flower Age) and also Modaram introduction of Bodo language in elaborately on the topic. Brahma’s Boroni Gudi Sibsa Arw Aroj primary school. Later it was settled The second paper of the session, which introduced the Bodo literature in by adoption of Devnagari script in “The Present Position of Bodo written form. She also opined that Simbargaon conference at Kokrajhar. Literature in Indian Context” was excessive use of symbolism in poetry Educational institutions with some presented by Laishri Mohilary, Assistant is also creating apathy on the part of organised bodies like Bodo Writers

64 KOLKATA Association, Bodo Sahitya Sabha, Sahitya Mulakat Assamese writers Akademy play an important role in helping Bodo literature to survive. Rujab Muchahary presented a paper on “Trends of Bodo Literature in the Early 20th Century.” He observed that Bodo literature got its literary form in early 20th century. Prior to it, it was based on folk literature and was manifested in dramas. It was the literary wave of writing in Bodo. Several publications were brought out during the period of Bibar Muga (Flower Age) that took the key role to promote the language. He highlighted the writings of Satish Chandra

Basumatary, Khitish Basumatary, Bijoy Sankar Barman, Sanjiv Pal Deka and Manalisha Saikia Darendra Nath Basumatary, Promod Chandra Basumatary Ishan Muchahary ahitya Akademi organized a ‘Mulakat’ Answering the various questions raised and some of the popular books of this Sprogramme with Assamese writers by the audience, story writers Sanjiv Pal age. Kalikumar Lahary was also a great in collaboration with Cotton College Deka and Manalisha Saikia spoke on the contributor of ‘Bibar Muga Age’ which New Artist Association (NABIN) on 27 role of creative writing and the saw a wide range of satirical writings October 2013 at the Conference Hall, responsibility of literature towards the in Bodo.. Cotton College, Guwahati. society and people. Writer Sanjiv Pal The last paper of the symposium Manju Devi Pegu, president of NABIN Deka said that ‘There is no standard was presented by Phukan Basumatary group presided. Four young writers were theory for writing a story or a poem’. titled “Response to the Bodo Literature”. invited to present their works. Manalisha Anis-uj-Zaman, Lutfa Hanum Selima He focused on the reader’s response to Saikia participated in the programme. Begum, Kushal Dutta and other Assamese Bodo literature in 20th century as well Manalisha Saikia and Sanjiv Pal Deka poets also read out their poems. as the present day. He also pointed out, read out their short stories. Bijoy Joydeep Borah, Editor of NABIN, “the literature as a collection of records, Sankar Barman presented two poems. proposed the vote of thanks. information, expressions that focus on social picture of a nation.” Different Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellow writers wrote on different topics and also carried on different views. Bodo Sophana Srichampa language has abundant writings in genres ahitya Akademi organized a round- like poetry and prose but it lacks in Stable discussion with Sophana criticisms. There are also not many pieces Srichampa, Ananda Coomaraswamy of dramas and novels in Bodo literature. Fellow for the year of 2012 on 4 A few research works are on Bodo November 2013 at its office auditorium literatures, particularly of the early 20th at Kolkata. Dr Srichampa’s presentation century, and only a few books were was on ‘Globalization and some socio- published in translation.” He enlisted the cultural ASEAN identities’. The major support of readers, authors, translators, focus of her presentation was on five publishers, distributors and critics for the topics: ASEAN Community, ASEAN-India development of Bodo literature and relationship, brief presentation about language. Thailand, some ASEAN identities and brief Thai literature, culture, drama and also India-ASEAN relationship. Dr. Srichampa interacted with the local writers and the audience, after her presentation.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 65 Literary Forum The Life and Works of Dr. Kamal

Sahitya Akademi independence to the British in 1981. special quality of telling stories and having organized a literary There was socio-political change and a good voice in singing. Dr Biramani forum on The Life general discontent in Manipur. At such then gave an account of the younger and Works of Dr a time Dr Kamal was born in a family days of Dr Kamal and his student days Kamal in of farmers at Canchipur, which was and the difficulties his family collaboration with once a palace of Manipur. Canchipur faced to educate him. He faced difficulties Manipuri Sahitya was once called Langthabal. Dr Biramani from home, a very conservative family Parishad, Meghalaya, gave a vivid account of the beauty of for marrying a woman from outside on 28 October 2013 the once beautiful locality of Canchipur Manipur. The natural beauty of at UCC Audirorium, Barapani, which is now the home of Manipur Tamenglong also impressed Dr Kamal Meghalaya. University. Dr Kamal had a strong while he was posted at Tamenglong. Gautam Paul, Officer in charge, influence from his mother, who died The speaker described Dr Kamal as a Sahitya Akademi Eastern Regional Office, when he was studying medicine. Dr romantic poet by saying that he had delivered the welcome address. Kamal was called as “Oja Macha” (Young ‘spontaneous overflow of emotions.’ Chief guest of the programme was Guru) by the people because of his H. Behari Singh, Convener, Manipuri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. He paid his tribute to the pioneers of Mulakat & Aviskar Programmes Manipuri modern literature, Dr Kamal, Hijam Anganghal and Khwairakpam Sahitya Akademi organized two programmes entitled ‘Mulakat’ and ‘Aviskar’ Chaoba. in collaboration with Fakirmohan Sahitya Parisad in Balasore Rotary Bhawan, Sri Rajamani Nongthomba, Odisha. While six young poet and writers read out their poem and short stories President, Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, in ‘Mulakat’, eminent Mardala player Sri Jagannatha Kuanr enthralled the crowd Meghalaya, in his presidential speech by his Mardala demonstration and powerful lecture in the ‘Aviskar’ programme. stated that literature not only helps to Eminent writer and convener of Odia Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, develop a language, but also helps to Gaurahari Das inaugurated the programme and introduced the participating capture the beauties of nature and young talents. The session started with the short story ‘Jui’ by Amaresh Biswal. humanity for eternity, as has been done The story was based on the erosion of ancient value and co-related the sentiment by Dr Kamal. of a father with an old and outdated almirah. The second story “Eita dunia” In the first session, Prof. N. was of Pragna Prabartika Das. The theme was on the reality of life. She described Khagendra Singh, Ex-Convener, love, wait and annoyance beautifully in her short story. Aditeswar Mishra read Manipuri Language Advisory Board, the last story ‘Janta neba Janta’. Picture of conservative society and social Sahitya Akademi, was the chairperson. defamation of a lady was reflected in this story. Poet Pabitramohan Dash read He presented a brief life sketch of Dr out four poems. Thrilling poverty, reality of life, grumbling, revolt etc were the Kamal before the audience and spoke theme. Another young poet Narendra Bhoi read out three poems. Sasmita Sarangi about distinctive qualities of his writings. read out two poems love and surrender of a lady was the essence of the First speaker of the session was the poems. D. Harischandra Behera reviwed the stories and poems read out about Editor of Echemma Dr Ph. Biramani. the philosophy and message conveyed to the society. In the ‘Aviskar’ programme held on the same day Jagannath Kuanr, veteran The topic of his paper was “The Life mardal player delighted the audience by his performance. He started lecture and Works of Dr Kamal”. As he began by stating that song is the essence of life. He described Odia tala, laya, chhanda, his paper, he gave a brief account of raga, chapu etc beautifully. Later he fascinated people of Balasore by demonstrating the situation of Manipur during the time mardal and playing on other musical instruments. He presented many rural folk of the birth and early childhood days songs and extremely unique lyrics. of Dr Kamal. Manipur lost its

66 KOLKATA Birth Centenary Seminar Laxmidhar Nayak

ahitya Akademi organized a birth playwright, lyricist and an editor. The Laxmidhar Nayak. The poems of Nayak Scentenary seminar on eminent Odia chief guest Haraprasad Das called were recited by Basant Mohanty and litterateur Laxmidhar Nayak in Laxmidhar Nayak, the father of Odia Dipti Dash and essays were read out collaboration with Utkal Sahitya Samaj gazhal. He is a champion of humanism by Krushna Ch. Bhuyan, Bhupen on 1 December 2014 at Satabdi Bhawan, and a great social activist. On this occasion, Mohapatra, Pulin Behari Nayak and Cuttack. the great children litterateur Nadia Gobind Ch. Chand. This session was In the inaugural session, K. Bihar Mohanty was presented with chaired by Bishnu Ch. Routray. Sreenivasarao, Secretary Sahitya Akademi Akademi’s Bal Sahitya Puraskar. The key- Throughout the session, poems and essays delivered the welcome address. The note address was delivered by were read out to reveal the multifaceted inaugural session was chaired by Kamalakanta Mohanty. The vote of personality of Laxmidhar Nayak. Lover Bijayananda Singh, President, Utkal Sahitya thanks was proposed by Goutam Pal, of freedom and mind independent, Samaj. Devasnana Das, Vice-president, Officer in charge, Sahitya Akademi Laxmidhar had immense contribution Utkal Sahitya Samaj, introduced the guests Eastern Region, Kolkata. to the literary growth and social to the audience. The introductory address The topic of the first session was development of the state. was delivered by Gourahari Das, “Life and Literature of Laxmidhar The valedictory session was chaired Convener of Odia Advisory Board. Nayak”. Under the chairmanship of by Gopal Krushna Rath where Jayant Pratiba Ray, Jnanapith Awardee, Ratnakar Chaini, Bijaya K. Satpathy, Mohapatra, the internationally reputed inaugurated the seminar. Dr Ray, in her Kailash Pattnaik, Aparna Mohanty and English poet and Prafulla Mohanty, well speech, said that for a writer educational Arun Mohanty, Bishnu Ch. Routray -known Odia writer were present. Jayant qualification has no meaning when “Life presented their papers. Mohapatra, remarked that writers are is a school and the world is a book”. The topic of the second session was born and seldom are made Laxmidhar At the age of 18, Laxmidhar Nayak “Multifaceted Talent and Laxmidhar Nayak is one such writer who motivated wrote the novel Udvranta. He is a Nayak”. The session concentrated and him. The vote of thanks was proposed nationalist leader, social reformer, discussed on the multifaceted genius of by Jibanananda Adhikary.

K. Sreenivasarao delivering welcome address. Haraprasad Das, Pratibha Ray, Kamala Kanta Mohanty ard others

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 67 Seminar New Harvest of Odia Literature

Sahitya Akademi organised a seminar on ‘New Harvest Loka: the Many Voices of Odia Literature’ in collaboration with Fakirmohan Sahitya Parisad on 8 November 2013 at Balasore Rotary In Srijan Utsav Bhawan, Balasore. At the outset Goutam Pal, Officer in charge, Sahitya Akademi Eastern region introduced the guests. While inaugurating the seminar, veteran poet Brajanath Rath said that different writers have different voices. Even time has a voice. But it is important to search unity in diversity. Eminent writer and Convenor of Odia Advisory Board of Sahitya Akademi Gourahari Das delivered the introductory address. He stated that the gifted young writers have set glittering examples all over the world. If the trend is also reflected Odia literature, will be prosperous by the young writers’ prolific output. Arabinda Giri who presented the keynote address said that despite several hurdles, the young generation has caught hold of its commitment. Presiding over the session Rabinarayan Dash, President of Fakirmohan Sahitya Parisad said that literature is the alphabet of life. Sahitya Akademi collaborated with the organizing committee In the first session, the chairperson was Bijayananda of Srijan Utsav, a popular three-day festival of Indian Singh, well-known writer and President of Utkal Sahitya performing art while celebrating the occasion from 17 Samaj. Dillip Swain presented his paper on modern poetry November to 19 November 2013 at Srijanbhumi, Purulia. while Subhasri Lenka presented her paper on novels by It was the 19th anniversary organized by Purulia Sanskriti the young writers. Anjan Chand dealt with the literature Kendra. of translation by the new writers. In the ‘Loka: the Many Voices’ programme two The second session was chaired by Sairindhri Sahu. troupes of Assam took part. The first troupe performed Laxmikant Tripathy presented his paper on humour in various types of Bodo dances including Bagurumba, Odia literature while Kabita Barik dealt with the modern Bardwisikhla, Kherai, and the other has done Sunuwal stories. Sridev presented his paper on the scope for Kosari Bihu and Hogra. These dances have been greatly literarure while Hemendra Mohapatra on exising situation acclaimed by spectators. Evidently, the festival has successfully of Odia drama. been able to present the significant essence of cultural The concluding session of the day was chaired by Indianness. Besides the above mentioned programmes, noted Odia writer Gopalkrushna Rath. Prallad Charan there were a good number of event like Bangla Band Mohanty, the chief guest, presented a panoramic view (Aakhar and Gahek) from Kolkata, Chou dances, Rangali of Odia literature. Banoj Tripathy, the guest of honour Bihu, Jhumur, Kirtan, Nachninach, Dairnach, wedding of the valedictory session said that more and more such songs of the Muslims, folk songs, Tagore songs and the programme should be organized which would prepare like. On the second day of the fair, a book of short platform for young writers. Biplab Kumar Mohanty, Vice stories by Saikat Rakshit, Maraikol, was released by Anil President of Fakirmohan Sahitya Parisad proposed the Saikia, principal Moran College, Assam. The festival ended vote of thanks. on 19 November 2013.

68 KOLKATA he briefly analyzed the masterpieces of Rajkishore Nila Lahari, Vana Jystna, Ashok Chakra and Jeevan Sangeet. In the first session, Adhyapak Biswaranjan, Asit Mohanty, Kapileswar Gahan and Kishore Chandra Das presented papers and discussed the life and literature of Rajkishore. Mohapatra Nilamani Sahoo, eminent story writer of Odisha chaired the session. Noted essayist and critic Dasarathi Das chaired the second session. Bijay Kumar Nanda, Sabita Pradhan and Pramod Kumar Parida presented papers L-R: K. Sreenivasarao, Malabika Ray, Janaki Ballav Pattnaik and Bibhuti Pattanaik that highlighted multifaceted talent of Rajkishore Ray. Saabitha Pradhan discussed the craftsmanship in Birth Centenary Seminar Rajkishore Ray Rajakishore’s works. Malabika described him a genius ahitya Akademi organized a birth masterpieces. Sri Patnaik further gave a who could bring synthesis of literature, Scentenary seminar on eminent Odia call to the writers to write down the music, acting all at a time. Bibhuti litterateur Rajkishore Ray on 30 success stories of the common men, Pattanaik discussed his romantic thoughts, November 2013 at Bhubaneswar. Sri who won the battle of life. realistic approach, unique language style Janaki Ballav Pattnaik, the Honourable Malabika Ray, daughter of late sensitivity of subjects. Governor of Assam inaugurated the Rajkishore Ray, in her key note address In the valedictory session, Shantanu seminar at IDCOL Auditorium mentioned that till the last breath of Kumar Acharya, eminent Odia writer, Sreenivasarao, Secretary, Sahitya his life he dictated pieces of literature, depicted Rajkishore as the hero of his Akademi, in his welcome address opined and matters for columns for newspapers, time. He tried to bring the renaissance that Rajkishore penned most of his displaying his remarkable creative energy. through his literary works. Jatindra stories against social evils like poverty Bibhuti Pattanaik the, eminent Odia Kumar Nayak chaired the session and and superstitions. His striking themes novelist and story writer, presided over Banoj Tripathy proposed the vote of have given him the status of a doyen the function. In his presidential address, thanks. of Odia Literature. Gourahari Das, Convener, Odia Advisory Board, gave a brief introduction on late Rajkishore Kavisandhi Hirendra Nath Dutta Ray. He said that Rajkishore’s journey in literature started in 1935 from a piece Sahitya Akademi organized a ‘Kavisandhi’ of poem entitled “Deepali”. Afterwards, programme with Hirendra Nath Dutta, eminent his attention was shifted to stories. Assamese poet in collaboration with Seuji-Seuji, Right from romanticism to social an Assamese literary organization on 30 November reality his literature-journey was 2013 at Nalbari, Assam. commendable. He touched all the facets Karabi Deka Hazarika introduced the poet to the audience. Poet and novelist Pankaj Gobinda of life. He was ahead of his time and Medhi interacted with Hirendra Nath Dutta before could foresee the future. Hirendra Nath Dutta recited his poems. In the In his inaugural speech, Sri J. B. conversation Hirendra Nath Dutta disclosed his Patnaik depicted Rajkishore as an artist entry to the world of poetry as well as his of both literature and music. He inspirations in the childhood days to write poetry. exhorted the writers to portray and Hirendra Nath Dutta recited some of his selected reflect the reality of the society in their poems on demand on the occasion. literary works. Such works would remain

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 69 Poets’ Meet Assamese Poets

ahitya Akademi organized a Poets’ SMeet on 30 November 2013 at Dakshin Kamrup College, Mirza, District Kamrup (Rural), Assam, in collaboration with Mahekia Kobita, a magazine on poetry published from Mirza, Assam. The Meet was chaired by Karabi Deka Hajarika, eminent poet and Convener, Assamese Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Assamese poet Anis Uz Zaman inaugurated the programme. Sri Zaman in his speech expressed his valuable observations on poetry and said that poetry not only sows seeds but also give birth to trees and blooms spreading the fragnance of the flowers. L-R: Satyakam Borthakur, Anis Uz Zaman, Karabi Deka Hazarika and M. Kamaluddin Ahmed In his welcome speech, M. Kamaluddin Ahmed, Member, Assamese Advisory with a song entitled “Mor eketi surot Medhi, Pranjit Bora, Satyakam Barthakur, Board, threw light on the characteristics banheeti bandha” composed by Bijoy Sankar Barman, Nibedan Das of modern poetry. Lakshminath Bezbaroa. Patowary and Barnali Borgohain. Each M. Kamaluddin Ahmed, Satyakam The invited poets who graced the of the poets read out two of their Borthakur, Naren Majumdar and Paresh occasion were Lutfa Hanum Chelima poems in this occasion. Kalita were the other dignitaries who Begam, Archana Puzari, Deboprasad The meet ended with a vote of were on the dais. The meeting started Talukdar, Rajib Phukan, Pankaj Gobinda thanks from Jagannath Barman.

Translation Workshop Manipuri to Bengali

Sahitya Akadami scheme, rhythm, and usage of language in her poetry. The organised a teams successfully prepared final drafts of several poems. translation work- The poet deciphered some of enigmatic moments in her shop from 21 to poems and intimated about the strong mythological undertone 23 November in them. The workshop got even more condensed and the 2013 at Imphal to sessions became much creative as the days gone by. improve the The team observed that the poems were so closely translation of the Akademi award-winning collection of related to local histories, polities, protests, mythologies and poems Idoningthou, by Memchoubi Devi, one of the leading mundane beliefs of the land that it was impossible to make poets from Manipur from original Manipuri to Bengali. a comprehensive translation without a proper note. Thus Sumanta Mukhopadhyay participated in the workshop the team visited some of the places nearby, like Kangla as an expert to look into the Bengali translation, especially Fort, a village where the poet was brought up, and a shrine, poems, along with Aveek Majumder to rework on the where mythology touched the history. The poet and the translations with the help of the poet herself. expert in Manipuri language explained how all these were On the first day, poet herself raised issues on rhyme related to the text.

70 KOLKATA Meet the Author Nirupama Borgohain Assamese Writer

Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘Meet the Author’ programme with a noted Assamese writer Nirupama Borgohain in collaboration with Asam Sahitya Sabha and All Assam Publishers and Book Sellers Association at Guwahati. Nirupama Bargohain is adept at positing the realistic facts of life in an elegant, and artistic manner. A veritable gallery of widely diversified people congregates in her literary works – the peasants, the deprived, humiliated, complex read out some of her works and explained their origins. middle-class society and revolutionaries who would transform Nirupama Borgohain is one of the most notable female the world. novelists of Assam. Her first novel was Hei Nodi Niravadhi Karabi Deka Hazarika, Convenor of Assamese Advisory (1963). It was set on life of a female protagonist. Her novel Board of Sahitya Akademi chaired the programme. Namita Abhijatri (1995) was based on the life of Chandraprabha Deka introduced the author to the audience. The author Saikiani.

is based on the Sanskrit maxim — Life is like a wheel, ups People and Books and downs, sorrow and happiness – is his best work. He termed his life as a never ending chase of dreams as Mahim Bora metaphorically represented by the (symbol) fish found everywhere in his oeuvre. Overall, he was happy with the Sahitya Akademi organized a ‘People and Books’ recognition and appreciation of his works by both readers programme with Padmashree Mahim Bora on 29 and critics. Still he wished to see that his non-fictional prose November 2013 at Nagaon Tourist Lodge Conference works and children’s literature get a bit of promotion and Hall in Assam. attention. At the end he mentioned few of his poems like Satyakam Borthakur welcomed the audience and also “Bhorolu paror Abeli”, “Ranga Jinya”, which, he felt, captured introduced the author. Karabi Deka Hazarika, presented the essence of his life’s philosophy. her perspectives on the stylistic brilliance of the author. It was followed by readings from the writings of Mahim Bora. His poem “Balichar” was read out by the writer himself and “Rangajinya” by Utpala Handique and then an excerpt from the short story “Top” by K. Goswami. After reading, there was an interaction of the audience with the author. Mahim Bora, in his characteristic good sense or humour, answered all questions with equal attention and interest and also to the satisfaction of his readers. According to him, life-long teaching was not at conflict with his creative endeavours. He took about 10 years to finish his “Kathanibarir Ghat” (The River port or Kathanibari), his most famous short story. In spite of its huge popularity and critical acclaim, “Kathanibarir Ghat” is not his personal favourite. For him, the short story “Chakrabat”, which L-R: Karabi Deka Hazarika and Mahim Bora

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 71 Agartala Folk Festival - 2013

orth-East Centre for Oral Literature N(NECOL), Agartala, of Sahitya Akademi organised a Folk Festival from 7 to 8 October 2013. The inaugural session was presided over by Chandrakanta Murasingh. Bhanulal Saha, Minister for Higher Education, Information and Cultural Affairs, Govt. of Tripura, was the chief guest who inaugurated the Festival. Niranjan Chakma was the guest of honour and Minakshi Sen Bandyopadhyay extended welcome to all present and gave an outline of the works done and undertaken by the Centre. She stated how the concept of folk-festival, comprising all North- Eastern states, was originally forwarded by Mamang Dai and supported by Hon’ble Minister Higher Education & ICAT Sri Bhanulal Saha inaugurating the festival. Temsula Ao and Mrinal Miri. Later the Chandra Kanta Murasingh, Niranjan Chakma, Minakshi Sen Bandyopadhyay idea was modified into state-wise festivals and Srimanta Kumar Bhattachariya are seen of performance-based presentation of various folk items. Anil Sarkar, former In the first performance session, elaborate interpretation of the context, Minister of Higher Education, proposed Nanda Kumar Debbarma made a survey and also indicated different variations for this Agartala Folk Festival. Debasish of ‘Jadu Kalija’ the traditional songs of that existed in the form as practiced Reang and troupe presented a Tripura and the patriotic and modern by different ethnic groups. performance of Hozagiri dance songs in Kokborok. Sri Debbarma The second presentation of the day strengthening such festival as it marks insisted upon the necessity of preserving was from Helenjoy Reang & Troupe the revival of such folk-forms which the authentic and standard forms of the of Hozagiri dance. Umashankar serve as the life-giving streams to our ‘Jaduni’ songs with the help of notation Chakraborti commented and elaborated culture. Niranjan Chakma, Akademi’s and codifications through application of on the form. Indicating the season, time Bhasa-Samman awardee spoke about proper theoretical training. He and occasion of the form, Dr. the wide cultural variety and heritage of demonstrated two prominent ‘Ragini’s Chakraborti interpreted the use of the state and also outlined the salient of ‘Jaduni’ songs-the Uttara and the compositions and postures, use of steps features of Chakma cultural forms. He Dakshini-analyzing their authentic forms and colours. He drew parallels with the referred to folk-forms like ‘Gengkhuli’ in terms of classical music. classical dance forms and established songs which stand on the verge of Then Kokborok Dance Academy that the folk performances are the root extinction due to lack of practice. Sri presented Garia dance. Sri Murasingh of classical forms. The third presentation Murasingh, another Akademi’s Bhasa- in his comments elaborated the meaning of the day was from Nelsi Para Cultural Samman awardee indicated the necessity of composition; occasion, background Team on Bongcher Jum dance and of performance-based presentation for of Jum cultivation and also the ritualistic songs. Zohming Thanga Bongcher cultural expressions of different ethnic suggestions behind the dance and music. interpreted and commented on the form groups. Sri Murasingh also emphasized The second session on second day started in a very lucid language and talked about on the necessity for proper preservation with performance by Symphony Cultural the cultural significance of the form. of the forms, which otherwise get Team presenting Garia Dance and The third session started with distorted with time. Wedding Songs. Hemanta Jamatia gave Chakma songs and dance, particularly

72 KOLKATA performed on the occasion of Biju festival; the presentation was made by Poets’ Meet Jummabi Chakma Cultural Organization. Niranjan Chakma introduced and Poets Representing Ten Indian Languages commented on the performance. He talked about the different forms, the instruments, costume, ornaments, and also elaborated postures and variations in rhythm. The performance was followed by a performance of Mamita dance by Garia Hukumu Bodol. The spirit of joy and spontaneity was very well interpreted by Ajita Tripura. She excellently elaborated and interpreted the dance form. The next presentation in the session was the famous ‘Bamboo Dance’ by Darlong Students’ Union. Hazring Darlong interpreted and commented on the form. Lilly Par Hrangkhawl commented and L-R: Gautam Paul, Hirendranath Dutta and Karabi Deka Hazarika elaborated upon the Hrangkhawl dance and songs presented by Hrangkhawl Sahitya Akademi organised a National Poets’ Meet in collaboration with troupe. The pathos and simplicity in the All Assam Publishers and Book Sellers Association at Guwahati on 28 songs were discussed in great detail. December 2013. The next performance of the session The programme was inaugurated by eminent Assamese writer Hirendranath Dutta and chaired by Karabi Deka Hazarika, Convener, Assamese Advisory was by Krairi Mog Choudhury. She Board, Sahitya Akademi. In their speeches, the multilingual aspect of the made exquisite presentation of the Meet was highlighted. Ten poets representing 10 Indian languages, from different forms like Kapya, Byasa and different parts of the nation participated in the meet. Radu through her performance- The participants included Aziz Hajini (Kashmiri), Gyalpo Lama (Nepali), presentations. Nityananda Nayak (Odia), Pratyus Guleri, Ravi Subramanyan (Tamil), The last performance of the session Jadumani Besra (Santali), I.S.Kangjam (Manipuri), Budhinath Mishra (Maithili), was Molsom dance presented by Swarna Chinmoy Kumar Das (Bengali), Lakkhahira Das (Assamese), Nilim Kumar Kumar Molsom and troupe. (Assamese) and Soubhagyabanta Maharana (Odia). Anil Kumar Boro, noted Umashankar Chakraborti elaborated and Bodo writer and former Convener of Bodo Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. commented on the form. The fourth session of the concluding day started with Garo dance presented ornaments and the umbrellas used in festivals as a means for semiotic approach by Subhas Marak and Troupe. the performance were explained with towards understanding and appreciating Umashankar Chakraborti gave the their meaning. He also commented on the various folk art forms. He was of interpretation while drawing attention to the compositions and postures explaining the opinion that the conventional aesthetics the ‘dramatization’ of the form. He their significance in the socio-cultural was far from adequate understanding explained the legends, mythology and context of the form. of oral and folk forms of art. In the beliefs on which the dance form evolved In the valedictory and concluding search for a new aesthetics, folk-art gradually. The fourth session closed session of the festival, Saroj Chaudhuri forms need to be viewed in their totality with Mog dance presented by Sangraing summed up the various presentations as presented in such festivals. The Academy. Thailow Mog from Sabroom indicating how they formed the total Director, NECOL gave the vote of explained the background, time and cultural gamut of the land. He thanks and this colourful folk festival occasion of the performance. Costumes, emphasized the significance of such came to a close.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 73 BENGALURU

National Seminar Devotion and Poetry

ahitya Akademi in collaboration with The topic of the second session was people was the main aim of Marathi SThunchan Memorial Trust, Tirur ‘The North Indian Streams.’ Vidyanand Bhakti poets. organized a seminar on ‘Devotion and Jha presided over the session and spoke The third session dwelt on the general Poetry’ on 12 and 13 October 2013. on “Tradition of Vidyapati and Jayadev.” topic ‘Bhakti Poetry in South India.’ The K.P. Ramanunni, Member, Malayalam He said “Bhakti would assume a new session was presided by Avvai Natarajan Advisory Board welcomed the speakers dimension only when it reaches an who spoke on the “Dissent and Protest and the gathering in the inaugural session interactive level.” He quoted examples in Tamil Bhakti Poetry.” N. Guru Prasad on 12 October 2013. Rao’s topic was “Social C. Radhakrishnan, Contest of Telugu Convenor, Advisory Bhakti Literature.” He Board for Malayalam, quoted from many who presided over the Telugu Bhakti literatures session said, “The and explained certain reasons for all the concepts in detail like miseries in the world Shravanam (Hearing), are due to fear.” Keerthanam (singing) He quoted from Padasevam (serving), Harinamakeerthanam and Sakyam (togetherness) explained that ‘when Archavam (chanting) and everything becomes Atmanivedam (self “One” the result is sacrifice). Nataraj happiness; and fear Huliyar dealt with the disappears. Vedhantha topic “Social Contest Dharsana does not of Kannada Bhakti L-R: K.P. Ramanunni, K. Satchidanandan, Purushotham Agarwal bother about caste or and C. Radhakrishnan Literature.” Quoting creed.’ He quoted from various Kannada from Sankara and Gita and said that from the interactions between Radha - literatures, he said that the important what is one cannot be separated. He Krishna and Siva - Parvathi. He also feature of Bhakti was inner purification. also hoped that the seminar would throw said that Vidyapati did not write in He also talked about a girl named Kanaka a new light on Bhakti. Purushotham Sanskrit, he wrote in Maithili language in the 16th century, who was in Udupi, Agarwal, who inaugurated the session, so that message could reach common and her contribution towards Bhakti spoke on “Kabir and Tulasi Das - people easily. Jayadev tried to reach God movement. He also pointed out that Philosophy and Poetry.” He said that through ‘innocent’ love and devotion. Manteswami and Male Madeshwara Kabir and Tulasi Das understood He also said, “Presenting devotional introduced another movement in themselves and found their path to God. song etc, with modern musical Kannada in 17th century. No other poet than Tulasi Das spoke equipments is not a new style. Even in The topic of the third session was so elaborately about the miseries of olden days people experimented like this ‘Bhakti Literature in Malayalam.’ Presiding others. Satchidanandan’s extensively and spread the message of Bhakti.” Satis over the session, Chathnath Achuthanunni quoted paper “Dynamics of Bhakti - Badwe dealt with the subject “Devotional said that Bhakti was not simply devotion; Social and Aesthetic,” on the great bhakti Poetry in Marathi.” He said that Marathi it should be viewed from the society’s poets of India, observed the Bhakti poems stood for equality. It included perspective. He also explained in detail movement as a movement where voices social objectives and was not self centred. how Bhakti became temple oriented and were raised against supremacy. He quoted The Marathi Bhakti movement though how Brahmin supremacy came into from Alvars, Nayanmars, Kabir, Tulasi started through Dalits, it never criticized existence. Das, Narayana Guru and Meera. Brahmins. Upliftment of common N.V.P Unithiri spoke on “Social

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 29 Relevance of Poonthanam.” He said that of Bhakti in Visual and Verbal Arts.” the changes that happened in Bhakti Poonthanam was a creation of time. He He said that Bhakti came into visual arts movement. “Narayana Guru used Bhakti criticized the person who was after through Ramanattam. There the devotion to bring changes in the society even those power. However, though he accepted and enjoyment became one. Later who are against or outside a particular the rulers of his time and obeyed them, Ramanattam became Kathakali. religion they can also be in the same he never hesitated to raise his voice for He also said that Koothu and religion, as Guru used to say. Not only the poor. He made Bhakti a common Koodiyattam questioned the inequalities that, the writings of Guru was for man’s movement. and injustice prevailed in the society. everyone. Guru’s self was such that it “Cherusseri and Melpathur” was the Unfortunately no effort was made to always identified with the society,” he subject of discussion for N. Ajaya Kumar. popularize and improve the music in said. He explained the aspects of agreement Koodiyattam and Koothu. The music “Bhakti and Poetry - the Aftermath” and disagreements between the two in them were and even now treated as was the subject for M. Krishnan writers. He quoted from Krishna Gadha a ritual art only. Namboothiri. He explained how Bhakti and Narayaniyam and explained how ‘Bhakti Literature in Malayalam’ was played its role in contemporary poems. worldly life and scholarly life appeared the topic of the fourth session. M.R. He quoted from Balamani Amma, V.K. in their work. “If we study their work Raghava Varier who presided over the Govindan Nair, Sugathakumari, Prabha in detail, we can understand that they session said that when language entered Varma, Yusafali Kecheri etc. concentrated not only in Bhakti but also Bhakti for exchange of views, many Shamsad Hussain spoke on “Bhakti stood against social injustice,” he said. interpretations gave birth to pleasant as in Arabi Malayalam.” She quoted from P Venugopalan spoke on “Ezhuthachan well as unpleasant situations. Scaria various Arabic poems and folk songs and the Ithihasa Purana Tradition.” He Zakaria spoke on the “Bible Bhakti and explained that through the songs explained the role played by Ezhuthachan Literature in Malayalam.” and poems society as well as the to take Bhakti into the hearts of common P. Pavithran’s spoke on “Sree supremacy of religion and the prevailing people. Narayana Guru and His unhealthy practices were criticised without Kaladharan spoke on “Manifestation Contemporaries.” He explained in detail any fear in a humorous way.

Kavisandhi S.G. Siddaramaiah, Kannada Poet

S.G. Siddaramaiah gave a brief recourse of his life before reading out his poems. He is the first literate of his generation and his community members had to face lot of oppression and humiliation inflicted upon them by the upper class. His childhood miseries had lot of bearing in his writings. Sri Siddaramaiah is known as ‘desi barahagara’ writer. His writings reflect the surroundings of his village and the unique, usage of language and narrative techniques. He claims that he hails from the culture of soil and toil and he is proud about it. He admitted that he was largely influenced by Vachana Sahitya. Sri Siddaramaiah who is an award winner of Karnataka Sahitya Academy has several books to his credit like Kaduva Beli Hoovu, Avaledeya Jangamas and Sollu Phalavaghi etc. Sri Siddaramaiah who served as a Principal in various Government colleges read out a few poems: “Avaledeya Jangama”, “Matte Kaadu”, “Nudimolle”, “Amrutamathi”, “Talemaaru”, “Hasthamasthakayoga”, “Nadiyaguvudu”, “Manemaaru” and “Bhagadi.” These poems were very much enjoyed and appreciated by the audience.

30 BENGALURU Seminar Literary Trends in Tamil Novels

ahitya Akademi organized a two day on family life and the issues of society Sseminar on ‘Literary Trends in Tamil became a theme later. Reiterating the Novels’ on 23 and 24 October 2013 opinion of Dr. Sivathamb, veteran Tamil in collaboration with Tamil University critic from Sri Lanka, Dr. Nachimutthu The Tamil novels exposed the at Thanjavur. A.S. Ilangovan, Officer in- said that a good novel should give a follies and foibles of the charge, Sahitya Akademi, Chennai new kind of experience to its readers. society. At the same time tried welcomed the gathering. K. Kamaraj, M. Thirumalai, Vice-Chancellor, Tamil to reform the society. The eminent Tamil critic and Member, Sahitya University was the chief guest who novels widened the habit of Akademi General Council delivered the emphasized that the novels had reading and grasping of introductory address. He mentioned that brought about many changes in the subjects. Tamil novels made novels widened the reading habit and society in a remarkable way. Sirpi many changes in the society grasping of subjects among Tamil people. Balasubramaniam, who delivered the in remarkable ways. The Novels exposed the follies of the society special address, lamented on the craze seminar covered the entire and at the same time reformed as well. for English medium education among gamut of novel literature in Thilagavathy, well-known fiction writer us which could be the reason of a Tamil right from its first novel delivered the felicitation speech. She decrease in readership of Tamil fiction. Prataba Mudaliyar Charitiram pointed out that Tamil novels started Tracking the development of Tamil by Mayuram Vedhanayagam off with social histories and evolved culture and literature, Dr. Sirpi said that Pillai up to the modern Tamil gradually to deal with various themes from tribal society, kingdoms evolved novels by Bama, Perumal from marginal, regional and subaltern during the Sangam Age. The values of Murugan, Singaram, Konangi, studies. K. Nachimuthu, Convenor, Tamil the Sangam Age were changed into Malarvathi etc. Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi who domains of higher echelons. Vedic delivered the presidential address said religion, Jainism and Buddhism tried to that the early Tamil novels concentrated bring in equality. Citing some examples,

Sirpi Balasubramaniam delivering special address. L-R: R. Kamaraj, A.S. Illangovan, Thrimulai, Nachimuthu and others

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 31 he said that, Tirukkural, the first great Chandrakanthan spoke on the novel Thol literature which advocated equality among by D Selvaraj. men and Prataba Mudaliyar Charitiram by The next session on “Resurgence Kathasandhi Mayuram Vedhanayagam Pillai was the of Eco Literature” was chaired by B first novel in the Tamil language. Modern Madhivanan. He quoted the opinion of Chilukuri Devaputra novelists like Singaram, Konangi, K. Sivathambi that ‘Kambaramayanam has Malarvathi and others have produced all the essential features of classical Telugu writer wonderful novels, Dr. Sirpi concluded. literature, but Silapadikaram is better than The first session was chaired by that as a “classical epic.” He spoke on Arasu. He informed that the Sangam the contrast between Westernism and literature described the life of subalterns Modernism. A. Gunasekaran read a paper which could be seen in modern novels. on Sozhagar Thoddi, a novel that dealt Hameem Musthapa presented an analysis with hill tribes and reflected the ‘Kurinji of the novel Marupakkam which dealt Thinai’ (life of hill tribes). Kasi with caste conflicts. Documentation of Mariyappan discussed the novel Korkai history, culture and ethnography in Tamil which talked about life in sea and sea- novels were also discussed by the speakers. coast. Arivuruvon spoke about the novel The next session was chaired by Thandavam by Solai Sundaraperumal Rama Gurunathan. He presented a which dealt with fertile paddy cultivation thought provoking analysis of space and and farmer’s life. existence of women. Padmavathy The last session was on “New Wave Vivekenandan spoke on the novel in Tradition and Modernism in Tamil Karukku Novels” which was chaired by K. by well-known Dalit writer A ‘Kathasandhi’ programme was Bama. Sethupathi discussed the novel Panjangam. P. Anandhkumar and P. organized by Sahitya Akademi on 28 Thuppukari which dealt with the plight Ravikumar discussed the novels of October 2013 in C.P. Brown Research of the life of a sweeper and the odds Tamizhavan and Ramakrishnan Centre for Languages with Chilukuri in her career. respectively. The valedictory session was Devaputra, a prolific fiction writer. The third session was presided chaired by Se. Ganeshram, Registrar, Rachapalem Chandrasekhara Reddy, over by Vivekanandhan. She gave a Tamil University. Prabanjan, veteran Tamil Member, Telugu Advisory Board classification of subaltern literature in fiction writer delivered the valedictory Tamil novels from colonial, national and address. Even if cinema, T.V. and other introduced the fiction writer Chilukuri Marxist approaches. Murugesapandian media today advanced well, the books Devaputra and briefed about his concentrated on Koola Madhari, a novel would always occupy an important place personality and works. Afterwards, by Perumal Murugan whereas in the society, he said. Sri Devaputra presented his story ‘Chivari Manushulu’ (Last human beings). This story depicted the fate of native languages in general and Telugu in particular, and how Telugu language was discouraged and looked down upon for past two decades in the state. Particularly, the story satirised the corporate sector in the present education system for encouraging English as the medium of education. After the presentation, scholars participated in an interactive discussion.

Thrimulai delivering his speech in one of the sessions

32 BENGALURU Symposium Centenary of Kaloji Narayana Rao Literary Forum ahitya Akademi and the Department of STelugu, Osmania University, Hyderabad, jointly organized a symposium on the Media and Literature Centenary of Kaloji Narayana Rao 9 October 2013 at Seminar Hall, Arts College, Tarnaka, Osmania University. Media is expected to create The symposium was inaugurated by the chief guest of the event, S. Satyanarayana, general awareness to guard the Vice-Chancellor, Osmania University under society as literature does the Chairpersonship of N. Gopi, Convenor, Telugu Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. K. Srinivas, Editor, Andhra Jyoti delivered the keynote address with thought provoking A ‘Literary Forum’ on “Media and Literature” observations on Telugu literature in general and on Kaloji Narayana was organized by Sahitya Akademi, Regional Rao in particular. S. Mallesh, Principal, Arts College, Osmania Office, Bengaluru in association with Akshaya University and C. Mrunalini, General Council Member, Sahitya Magazine and Dept. of Kannada, Mumbai Akademi were the guests of honour in the inaugural session, which University at Billavara Association, Santa Cruz, was welcomed by S.P. Mahalingeshwar, officer-in-charge, Sahitya Mumbai. B.A. Sanadi who inaugurated the Akademi, Bengaluru. meet stressed the importance of media in The first session was chaired by M. Chennappa. R. Chandrasekhar contemporary society. Reddy, Yendluri Sudhakar and Jyotsna Prabha presented well- Narahalli Balasubramanya delivered the researched papers on Kaloji. The second session was chaired by M. Bagaiah, Professor, Telugu Department, Osmania University keynote address and said, “corruption rules Katyayani Vidmahe, N. Sidda Reddy, Banna Ilaiah, T. Malla Reddy over system and media became victim of it.” presented papers and informed the gathering about Kaloji’s works. Further, he said that both religion and politics The third session was chaired by V. Nityananda Rao, in which are full of corruption in our country. The the eminent film director B. Narsinga Rao, and famous Telugu media is expected to create general awareness lyricist Andesri were the guests of honour. Sunkireddy Narayana to guard the society against political and Reddy, Naleshwaram Shankaram also presented papers and threw religious fanaticism. It is an irony that the light on the life and works of Kaloji. politics is suppressing the freedom of journalism S.V. Satyanarayana, Head, Dept. of Telugu, Osmania University while the politicians are maintaining their self and General Council Member, Sahitya Akademi proposed the interests in the guise of favouring some media vote of thanks. houses. This is unfortunate and regressive for the society. Guru Lingappa Dabale, Arjun Golasangi, G.N. Upadhya, Tukaram Poojary, Jokatte Srinivas, Dayasagar Chauta and a host of other dignitaries participated in the forum and discussed on the role of media and literature in the changing times.

Katyayani Vidmahe delivering her speech

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 33 Centenary Seminar Raghavendra Patil presided over the valedictory session. Sarjoo Katkar delivered the valedictory speech. Satish Krishnamurthy Puranik Nadagouda, President, Rotary Club, Gokak was the guest of the occasion. Sri Katkar in his valedictory address said The renowned fiction writer Krishnamurthy that Krishnamurthy Puranik was one of Puranik wrote more than eighty novels in his the powerful writers who created a lifetime and most of his novels were inspired by unique readership. Narasimhaiah and real life incidents. Almost fifteen of his novels were Puranik were the leading writers of the made into cinema. Puranik was a remarkable poet age. Puranik highlighted the snags of the middle class on one hand and also and playwright gave answers to those problems on other hand. His novels recorded the ahitya Akademi, Regional office, by C.K. Navalagi. Y.M. Bhajantri happenings of day-to-day life. Hence SBengaluru organised a one-day delineated “the social aspects of some of his novels were made into centenary seminar on Krishnamurthy Krishnamurthy Puranik’s novels” and the cinema. Puranik in association with Rotary Club, dalit sensibilities portrayed in the novel Raghavendra Patil said that Gokak on 6 November 2013 at Sanadi Appanna. The second session was Krishnamurthy Puranik’s writings need Mangaladevi Tamvasi Auditorium, Rotary chaired by Vijay Kumar Katagihallimath not require any critic to respond since Club, Gokak. and Gurupad Mariguddi spoke on the it has had a direct response from the In the inaugural session, Arjuna topic “Women’s Role in Puranik’s Novels.” people. But some of his novels could Golasangi, Member, Kannada Advisory Dr. Prakash Deshpande presided over be analyzed to know the changes in Board delivered the introductory address. the third session. H.D. Kolkara presented the society and that would give more Mallikarjuna Kalloli, Chairman, Rotary a paper on “Puranik’s Poetry and Short justice or reverence to his writings. Blood Bank, Gokak and Anand Puranik, Fiction.” Fourth session was chaired by Krishnamurthy Puranik instilled a kind son of Krishnamurthy Puranik were the Y.B. Himmadi in which T.S. Chougale of sense that in spite of the chaos in guests of the occasion. spoke on the topic “Puranik’s Lyrical the society, one must not forget the Chandrasekhar Kambar, Vice- Plays.” Poems were read out at the end tradition we augment for the future President, Sahitya Akademi presided over after the presentation of the papers. generation, Dr. Patil observed. the inaugural session. In his inaugural speech, Dr. Kambar said that Krishnamurthy Puranik’s writings are an everlasting truth. He was a great man who upheld the writing and teaching career at a prodigious level. As a novelist, short story writer and playwright he had written nearly 100 books and contributed enormously for the Kannada literary world as a creative writer. As a teacher of English and Sanskrit language, Sri Puranik contributed a lot as a translator translating from Sanskrit into Kannada. Anand Puranik, son of Krishnamurthy Puranik, chaired session. He gave a biographical reading of his father. Chandrasekhar Kambar, Vice-President, Sahitya Akademi lighting the lamp The first session was presided over Malikarjuna Kalloli, Anand Puranik, Somashekhar Magadumba and others

34 BENGALURU Centenary Seminar Rev. Prof. Thaninayaga Adigalar Adigalar was a multifaceted personality as a clergy, humanist, traveller, polyglot, writer, educationist, journalist, critic, editor and language activist. He took the Tamil language and culture to the international forum. He is called the ‘Roving Ambassador’ of Tamil culture

ahitya Akademi held a two day seminar on the vision and endeavours which later were the models for Scentenary celebration of Rev. Fr. Xavier Thaninayagam other Indian languages. at St. Joseph College, Tiruchirapappalli on 25 and 26 The first session of the seminar was chaired by November 2013 in collaboration with Rev.Fr. Xavier Y. Subbarayalu, well-known Tamil scholar. He lauded Thaninayaga Adigalar Research Centre and St. Josheph’s the efforts of Adigalar in reviving the research interest College. A.S. Ilangovan, Officer in-charge, Sahitya in Tamil antiquity and culture. Mu. Ramasamy, a scholar Akademi, Chennai welcomed the scholars and discerning in Tamil theatre presented his views on Adigalar’s readers. Krishnaswamy Nachimuthu called Adigalar a association with Tamil language and society. His global multifaceted personality as a clergy, humanist, traveller, outlook shaped his affection towards Tamil society. His a polyglot, a writer, educationist, a journalist, critic, effort to globally unite the Tamils through the language editor and a language activist. He founded the Academy was a great pioneering work. V. Arasu spoke on of Tamil Culture and a research journal called Tamil “Adigalar’s Research Methodology.” He mentioned that Culture which published the findings of researches on Adigalar analysed primary and secondary sources with Tamil studies all over the world by scholars like M.B. extensive field study. He was thorough, flawless and Emeneau, T. Burrow, Kamil Zvelibil, Jean Fillozat, dispassionate in his methods and findings. A. Antony Semion Rudin, Suniti Kumar Chatterji, T.P. Cruz presented a paper on “Adigalar’s Tirukkural Studies.” Meenakshisundaranar, V.I. Subramoniam, Arasaratnam Tirukkural was one of the profound influences on and others. Apart from his absorbing travelogues he Adigalar’s life and literary outlook. The ethical outlook had published research works on Tamil education, in Tirukkural is still guiding light to many refined culture, history and classical Tamil literature. His enduring intellectuals. Equality of mankind is indicated in Tirukkural contribution lies in taking Tamil studies and modern and Adigalar concurred these ideals. His lectures on Indian studies to international universities. Tirukkural is a widely popular studies. Indira Manuel He has also brought to light unknown early valuable presented a paper on “Adigalar and Sangam Literature”. and rare printed Tamil texts deposited in various libraries She mentioned that “Landscape and Poetry” is the best abroad. His critical appraisal of modern Tamil writing research work of Adigalar. His work Tamil Culture is also notable. His enduring contribution lies in his taking Civilisation - Readings: The Classical Period discussed the Tamil studies and modern Indian studies to international importance of Tolkapiyam, Sangam poetry, Silapadikaram, universities and fora. His standing as a clergy and his Manimekalai and Tirukkural. He extensively analysed the scholarship in many languages of international standard role of nature in literature; and his studies on education helped him to reach the Tamil studies to a wider during Sangam period and the role of poets, musicians international arena. He was the founding father of the and monks of Jainism and Buddhism deserve praise. International Association of Tamil Research which The second session was chaired by U. Rasu. Valan conducted regular international conference seminars of Arasu presented a paper on “Adigalar’s Editions” and Tamil studies in Kuala Lumpur, Chennai, Paris, Jaffna, pointed out that Adigalar published the ancient works Mauritius and other places every two years. The founding with competent editorial skills. B. Mathivanan presented of International Institute of Tamil Studies at Chennai a paper “Adigalar’s Writings in Tamil.” He dealt with and the Tamil University at Thanjavur and obtaining Adigalar’s contribution to Tamil culture quoting special official recognition of Tamil as classical language by references. U. Alibava presented a paper on “Adigalar’s the Government of India were the outcome of his Prespectives on Sangam Literature and Personality.” He

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 35 presented a detailed portrait of the Greek and Hebrew literatures and took Buddhist ethics. He did a pioneering Sangam period as seen and analysed by his research in a global way. Adigalar research in comparative literature. K. Adigalar. mingled with people of Hawai Islands Nedunchezhian commented on The third session was chaired by K. and saw that they wore flowers and “Adigalar’s Contribution to South Asian Ramasamy, who exhorted the Tamil leaves like Tamil people of Sangam age. Studies”. Since he lived in Malaysia and scholars to unite a under the banner of He found out that Thiruvembavai was toured through South-East Asian International Association of Tamil sung in festivals of Thailand. Japanese countries extensively he produced Research. K. Thirumaran, well-known poetic tradition is similar to Tamil poetic valuable insights from his research and Tamil scholar presented a paper on tradition and Indonesians claim that they travelogues. Sam Vijay spoke on “Adigalar’s Research Journals.” Adigalar are related to Chola, Chera and Pandiya. “Adigalar’s Studies on Tamil Diaspora.” started a Tamil journal named Tamil Such facts were noted and analysed by He visited Reunion and places near Culture in 1952. Mostly research papers Adigalar in his research works. R. Sambath South America where the Tamil migrants were published in it besides publishing presented a paper on “Adigalar’s still cherished their Tamilian roots. Sri of book reviews, proceedings of Tamil International Association of Tamil Vijay displayed pictures of Mauritius, associations and literary activities. Another Research & Conferences” which were Reunion and other places to explain his important journal published by Adigalar mainly conducted by International ideas regarding Adigalar and Tamil was Tamil Studies. R. Kamarasu presented Association of Tamil Research. S. Albert diaspora. a paper on “Adigalar’s Thoughts on spoke on “Rare Tamil Books Discovered The valedictory session was chaired Education.” He extensively discussed by Adigalar” in museums in Europe. by P. Marudhanayagam, veteran Adigalar’s work, Educational Thought in Rabi Singh also described Adigalar’s Tamil scholar who mentioned that Ancient Tamil Literature. He developed contribution to the development of references in Solomon’s songs in the Old a new school of thought named Tamil research. Testament, echo Tamil references. Seneca, ‘Comparative Education.’ E. Soosai The fifth session was chaired by S.S. the great thinker mentioned Tiruvalluvar presented a thought provoking paper Ramar Ilango. He mentioned that as one of the great philosophers. “Adigalar’s Tolkapiyam Studies.” Adigalar international Tamil organizations were Marudhanayagam quoted many establishes that Tolkapiyam contains conceived and shaped through the efforts important ideas and ideals of Tamil linguistic features and described the Tamil of Adigalar. Maraimalai Ilakkuvanar achievement as put forth by Adigal. S.V. ethos in a beautiful style. presented a paper on “Adigalar’s Shanmugam, a well-known linguist The fourth session was chaired by Comparative Studies” as he compared presented Adigalar’s techniques in literary K.V. Balasubramaniam. He mentioned Greek and Latin poets to that of Sangam appreciation. The seminar came to an that Adigalar studied English, Latin, poets. He compared Thiruvalluvar’s end on a rich literary exchanges and Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, thoughts with Greek, Roman and interactive session.

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36 BENGALURU comparative study of Sri Ligade with Symposium other centenarians who wrote in Kannada such as S.V Parameshwara Bhatta. Jayadevi Thayi Ligade Arjun Golasangi, Member, Kannada Advisory Board, Janardhana Bhat, a well- Jayadevi was a bilingual writer, wrote in Kannada known crititc, Guru Lingappa Dabale, and later in Marathi. She is known for her writings a scholar and Srinivas Jokatte, a popular including her epic poetry Siddarama Purana. She journalist presented their papers on was a champion of women’s education and an Ligade’s contributions and the significance important activist of the Karnataka unification Jayadevi Thayi Ligade’s literature. movement. Born into the well-known Makade family of Solapur in Maharashtra, Jayadevi Thayi received primary education till class four in Marathi, a rare privilege for girls in those days. She became a bridge of friendship between the two languages Literary Forum taking the essence of Veerashaiva literature to Marathi readers Contemporary Scenario of Malayalam Language and Literarure

ahitya Akademi and the SDepartment of Malayalam of N S S College, Nilamel, Kollam had jointly organized a literary meet on 10 December 2013 in Seminar Hall of the college. Vijayan Pillai from the Department of Malayalam welcomed the guest and audiences. G. Thulaseedharan Pillai, Principal of the college presided over the function. K.S. Ravikumar, well-known Malayalam critic inaugurated the meet and spoke about the contemporary status and trends of Malayalam

L-R: Narahalli Balasunramanya, B.A.Sanadi and G.N. Upadhya literature. He explained that Malayalam literature gave voice to the marginalised and voiceless people. ahitya Akademi, Regional Office, of Sahitya Akademi’s activities. B.A. C.R. Prasad explained with examples SBengaluru in association with Sanadi, eminent Kannada poet lit the the peculiarities of contemporary Department of Kannada, Mumbai inaugural lamp and G.N. Upadhya, Malayalam fiction. Sabu Kottukkal University organized a centenary Member, Kannada Advisory Board gave spoke about Malayalam poems of symposium on Jayadevi Thayi Ligade, his introductory remarks. diverse kinds. The programme which an eminent Kannada writer and freedom Narahalli Balasubramanya, was well attended by the students activist of the last century. Convenor, Kannada Advisory Board and teachers ended with an interactive S.P. Mahalingeshwar, Officer in- gave tribute to Jayadevi Thayi Ligade session. Charge welcomed the guests and who fought for the cause of Kannada audience and also gave a brief account language in Sollapur. He made a

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 37 Literary Forum generation and try to sharpen the weapon of our own arts,” C. Radhakrishnan said. He also pointed out that Contemporary in contemporary times, cinema is looking at the market strategies alone; it has transformed itself into a big Malayalam Literature commercial industry. Cinema does not reflect much the dynamics and dialects of social life but the real debate A ‘Literary Forum’ on Contemporary Malayalam Literature about the issues of life and society sometime takes place was organised on 17 October 2013 in the seminar hall only with some films. Out of such films, many novels of Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram by came out in Malayalam. The question is, how many of Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. The meet was inaugurated them withstood the time and space? by C. Radhakirshnan, the noted Malayalam writer and According to B. Murali, the noted Malayalam short the Convenor of Malayalam Advisory Board, Sahitya story writer, writing transmits his ideas deep in to the Akademi. The discussion on contemporary facets of minds of readers. Today Malayalam stories prefer to Malayalam literature was initiated by C.G. Rajendra Babu, deviate from its stereotyped technicalities and enquire into B. Murali, and C.R. Prasad. Sudheer Kidangoor, Principal the possibilities of taking up complex issues of life and of the College chaired the function and Kumari. Veena simply convey it to the readers. welcomed the gathering. It is almost difficult to distinguish between reality and Introducing the theme of the event, Sri Radhakrishnan fantasy in modern Malayalam poetry, even the demarking said that the Indian tradition of aesthetics had identified lines of villages and cities fade out as evident in many dwani as the ‘soul and spirit’ of poetry. The most important poems. The noted critic, C.R. Prasad said that Malayalam factor is how far the art forms can sooth and calm us. poetry often testifies that writing is life. Malayalam poetry In this sense, the Mahabharata is the best example as every reflects the contemporary life in its total festivity. Sri Prasad one is distinct, hence perspectives will also be distinct but concluded his discussion on Malayalam poetry by referring the epic tries to coordinate the diverse minds into a single the poems of Manoj Kuroor and Niranjan. Saraswathy idea and proposes a universal philosophy. Antharjenam, Head of the Dept. of Malayalam gave the “Writers are supposed to realise the action of an earlier vote of thanks.

C.G. Rajendra Babu delivering his speech L-R: Sudheer Kidangoor, C. Radhakrishnan, B. Murali and C.R. Prasad

38 BENGALURU ne day Symposium O symposium in connection with Mahakavi M.P. Appan’s M.P. Appan’s Birth Centenary birth centenary celebration was organised by Sahitya lyricism and through the imageries in the title of the paper presented by Akademi at Kesari his poems we see a strong vision along Viswamangalam Sundaresan where he Memorial Hall, Thiruvananthapuram on with genteel expressions. observed that the optimism in Appan’s 18 October 2013. C.R. Prasad delivered “Didactic Elements in the Poetry of poetry is the outcome of his own the welcome speech. M.P. Appan” was the title of the paper personality. Binding beauty and C. Radhakrishnan, Convenor, presented by D. Benjamin. The sincerity philosophy together, his poems look Malayalam Advisory Board, Sahitya of his poems revealed the disciplined beyond future, albeit not escaping away Akademi presided over the meeting. He life style of Appan. Values inherited from life but by immersing in the spirit mentioned the affluence and poetry in from the Malayalam renaissance and of love for life. the individual, M.P. Appan. He also said the didactic elements of ‘Modern “M.P. Appan’s Kavyavyakthithwam,” that the Kerala Renaissance was well Kavitharyam’ influenced and enriched was the next paper presented by G. built upon the foundations of literature him as discussed by Sri Benjamin in the Padma Rao who remarked on the styles and artistic lineage of Appan. paper. The didactic elements in Appan’s of Appan’s poems and pointed out the Kumaranasan, the poet rightly said that works recognise the life forces and simple and prophetic aspects as found through the poems of Appan, we got stimulate the inner strength of oneself. in his poetry. His poetic mission was to see ‘Sree Narayana Darsanam.’ George Onankkoor presided over the to emerge out as a moral force, based Prabha Varma, a well-known poet last sessions. upon righteousness, morality and strength inaugurated the event. He observed that N Mukundan presented a paper on of ideas, against the vices in society as “the poems of Sri Appan are the fine the style of the translation by M.P. analysed by Sri Rao. examples of nationalist sentiment and Appan. His Jeevitholsavom is the best M.N. Rajan’s paper was on “Appan’s in them we can see patriotism and translation of Omar Khayyam in Kavyasambhavana.” He talked about reverence towards the motherland. His Malayalam. His style of translation retains Appan’s poetic vision which expressed the cultural aspects of the original text. age expressed the values inherited from the truth and showed light to many in “Kavithayile Prasadathmakatha” is the time of darkness. life style of Kerala when the Western sensibility started ‘carper bombing’ in our literary firmament. His poems are still relevant in the contemporary age when we are losing our traditional aesthetic values.” M.P. Ayyappan, son of poet Sri Appan, gave a few anecdotes from his life to show the genuineness af Appan’s life as well as in his poems. The next session was chaired by M. Thomas Mathew, veteran Malayalam critic. Desamangalam Ramakrishnan who was also a Malayalam poet presented a paper, “Poet, Poetry & Poetic Language.” Appan’s optimism was an amalgamation of individual and collective endeavour, as observed by Sri C.R. Prasad delivering his speech Ramakrishnan. He was a master in L-R: M.P. Ayyappan, Prabha Varma and C. Radhakrishnan

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 39 Literary Interactions Sophana Srichampa

29 October 2013 : ‘Literary Interaction’ with Sophana Srichampa from Mahidol University, Thailand and also the Akademi’s Dr. Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellow was held on 29 October 2013 at Bangalore. Dr. Srichampa gave an elaborate lecture, with a captivating power point presentation, on the geography, politics, religion, culture, society, international relations, literacy, SEA writer’s award, arts, paintings, literature and theatre activities of Thailand. The audience was overwhelmed to know about Thailand in such great detail. The Coomaraswamy Fellow interacted with the eminent writers from Bengaluru like S. Carlos, R.G. Halli Nagaraj, Subbu Holeyar, M.R. Kamala, Abdul Majeed Khan, Jayashree Kambara, Sudhakaran Ramanthali, J. Kaval and a host of other writers. 30 October 2013 : Three gatherings under the ‘Literary Meet’ programme were organized in Bangalore University with the visiting Anand Coomaraswamy Fellow, Sophana Srichampa. First meeting was with students and researchers at the Dept. Sophana Srichampa, Ananda of Economics. Dr. Srichampa made a power point present on ASEAN and Coomaraswamy Fellow 2012 Globalization which was followed by a lively interaction. and scholar from Thailand visited The second meeting was at the Gandhi Centre at Bangalore University. Director Bengaluru and had interactions of the Centre, Jeevan Kumar and Nataraj Huliyar posed questions related to with the Indian writers, students Gandhian philosophy to the visiting Fellow. She answered succinctly and spoke on the Gandhian impact on Thailand. Researchers of the centre also interacted and researchers at Bangalore with the Fellow. University and later at Dr. Baba The last meeting of the series was held at Dr. Baba Sahib Ambedkar Research Saheb Ambedkar Research Center. Dr. Srichampa gave a lecture on Buddhism in Thailand and the ritualistic Centre, Bengaluru significance associated with it. The researchers and staff of the Centre vividly interacted with her and updated their knowledge of the impact of Buddhism in Thailand.

Literary Forum with Four Malayalam Writers spoke about himself as a writer in making and gave many illustrations from he ‘Literary Meet’ was held at his experience as a writer. “If a writer has the fire of creativity in him, his Pandalam, a town of rich cultural T words will be illuminated with that and literary tradition which is also famous fire,” Benyamin said. Cherukunnam for its connection with Lord Ayyappa Purushothaman, a poet and an of Sabarimala. The Meet was organized academician, briefly explained his with Pandalam Sahitya Samithi which experiences of the path of writing. In has a history of more than 25 years. his speech, he described the basic The theme of the ‘Literary Meet’ taken undercurrents of spiritual elements of up for the ‘Literary Forum’ programme his poetry. P.R. Gopinathan Nair also held at Lions Club Hall was on “Paths shared his literary experiences. Ravivarma of Writing.” Thampuran, one of the leading young Benyamin, the most leading young short story writers, also presented his Malayalam novelist inaugurated the Meet. experiences as a writer. In his presentation, He is the author of the very popular he detailed out the aesthetic aspects of Benyamin delivering his speech Malayalam novel Aadujeevitham. Benyamin writing short story.

40 BENGALURU Symposium Kannada Literary Journals and Response Today

ahitya Akademi, Bengaluru organised address. He remarked that literary theories time. They debate on the prime culture Sa Symposium on ‘Kannada Literary formulated by the literary journals have through microscopic strands. Kannada Journals and Present Response’ in become a subject of daily debate/ journalism had seen very important collaboration with Jain University, discussion. Transitions and changing literary journals like Sankramana, which Bangalore at Conference Hall, School movements in society, politics, literature is currently celebrating its 50th year, of Graduate Studies, Jain University and culture have given birth to a large Sanchaya, Anveshane, Shoodra, Abhinava, campus, Bangalore on 26 October 2013. number of literary journals. Several literary Sakshi, Rujuvathu, Desha-Kala etc. P. Chandrika, Member, Kannada journals have shaped rationalistic and In the first session, Raghavendra Advisory Board in her introductory liberal thinking. They thrive primarily Patil spoke on the topic “Literary Journals remarks said that the little magazines only on their contents of philosophical and Creativity.” The little magazines have been debating on daily activities and balanced writings. Lankesh Patrike, should contain the articles that could ease and chores of the society. We have been Rujuvathu and a host of other literary life. Creative thoughts and fundamental witnessing a change in the forms and journals created new micro-cultural researches should be published in one’s ideologies of literature and culture. We elements in the society. The little magazines own mother tongue in the little magazines. could still see a continuum of protests have formulated and printed all the It can bring in new criticism, and new and agitations fostered by the little progressive substances and have thinking. Earlier we were reading poetry magazines. In view of the swing from encouraged the notions to understand and criticism much in these magazines, print media to electronic media, we can democracy. They have also given more he stated. see a paradigm shift in the reading space for writers to become popular. Shoodra Srinivas spoke on the approaches of the little magazines. Chandrasekhar Patil, eminent subject “Cultural Scenario and Literary Choodamani Nandagaopal, UNESCO Kannada writer and Editor of a Kannada Journals”. In his speech, he quoted that Fellow, in her inaugural address said that literary journal Sankramana was the guest the literary magazines must face the the literary journals have developed a of honour; he also presided over the cultural and political discrepancies. They sense of love and proudness for Kannada inaugural session. In his presidential have created real reading habits among language. address, he stated that little journals the mass and have published creative Nataraj Huliyar, eminent Kannada handle not only the literary pressures, criticisms also. They must transmit the writer and critic, delivered the keynote but also the cultural pressures of the sensibilities in a small way to the readers.

L-R: Nataraj Huliyar, Chandrasekhar Patil, Choodamani Nandagopal and P. Chandrika

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 41 Vijayamma presided over the first session Literary Meet and remarked that the duties and expectations from small journals are Antiquity and Value of Malayalam Literature plenty. L.N. Mukundaraj spoke on the “Importance of Literary Journals” in the second session. He affirmed that the little magazines are doing the works that are not done by the major journals. R.G. Halli Nagaraj spoke on the “Social Responsibilities of Literary Journals.” Literary journals provide platforms for publications of plays that could rarely been seen in popular journals. Little magazines are more sensible with regard to matters involving caste and religion and wield more responsibilities in establishing a better society, he said. Puthusserri Ramachandran, C.R. Prasad and others Aravind Malagatti, Akademi’s General Council Member and an eminent critic and writer said that literary journals Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi in language and literature. “There are great are also called “cultural journals.” In his association with the Department of literary works in Malayalam even before valedictory speech, Sri Malagatti reiterated Malayalam, University of Kerala Ezhuthachan’s period. Malayalam is the that media have totally destroyed the conducted a ‘Literary Meet’ on Antiquity first language in India in which translation main focus or course of Dalit, Bandaya and Value of Malayalam Language and of Bhagavad Gita and Kautilya’s Arthashstra and other movements. They have ruined Literature on 1 November 2013. C.R. were done. Zero Theory in Mathematics our ideas, thoughts of knowledge and Prasad in his presidential address gave was first invented by our forefathers just brought in extravagant cultures of a brief note on the antiquity of whose mother tongue was Malayalam. entertainment that are commercialized Malayalam language and literature. When compared to other languages, the in the present context of globalisation. “The vast culture of Kerala is yet oldest prose was also written in Unless the literary magazines address to to be studied deeply,” said the famous Malayalam”, he said. these problems, they may die away. The poet and scholar Puthusserri Rama in his speech, talked about little journals have taught us that life and Ramachandran. Naduvattom the situation in which Malayalam got the writings must go hand-in-hand. Little Gopalakrishnan said, “Malayalam classical status and responses of Keralites journals must use the modern electronic language attained classical status for its to it N.C. Haridasan also emphasized technologies for their growth as antiquity and value.” He described about on these and discussed elaborately. prominent journals and also to sustain. the great and rich heritage of Malayalam Giraddi Govindaraj presided over the second session and also the valedictory Avishkar Young Poets’ Meet session. He concluded that any journal that gets governed by an institution will Sahitya Akademi in association with Karnataka Sangha, Mumbai conducted die immediately. Bureaucratic set-up in a ‘Young Poets’ Meet’ on 9 November 2013. Omdas Kannangar, Secretary, an institution will not allow any journal Karnataka Sangha, Mumbai welcomed the gathering. Mariyappa Natekar, G.P. to exercise any sort of freedom or Kusuma, Poornima Sudhakar Shetty, Anita Poojari Thakode and Pethri liberty. Journals owned by individual can Vishwanatha Shetty recited their poems and actively interacted with the audience. enjoy much freedom. The cultural and G.N. Upadhya, Member, Kannada Advisory Board gave the presidential address social ambiences give way for the birth and spoke about Akademi’s activities in detail to the huge literary lovers of of good and qualitative literary journals, Mumbai who came for the programme. he concluded.

42 BENGALURU Symposium Centenary of Puttaparthi Narayanacharya

one day symposium on Puttaparthi The second session was chaired by was presented by M. Narendra on ANarayanacharya, a famous poet, C. Govinda Raju. Three papers were “English literature of Puttaparthi” and critic and researcher in Telugu, was presented by three erudite scholars, the second one by M. Sampath Kumar organized jointly by Sahitya Akademi Bhutapuri Gopalakrishna Sastry on on “Mythological criticism of and C.P. Brown Research Centre for “Penugonda Lakshmi, Shaji and Sipai Pituri,” Puttaparthi.” Sanjeevamma described Languages, Yogi Vemana University on Tappeta Rama Prasad Reddy on “Gandhiji Puttaparthi as a matured and genuine 27 October 2013. Mahaprasthanam and Agniveena” and critic and compared his style to that of N. Gopi, Convenor of Telugu Yelamarty Madhusudan on “Sivatandavam the free flowing river Kaveri. She also Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi and Srinivasa Prabandham.” described Puttaparthi as an expert in inaugurated the symposium with a Prof. Raju said that Sri Puttaparthi analyzing the characters created by various thought provoking speech. He described was a master of “Padya Vidya” and poets. M. Narendra spoke on the English Dr. Puttaparthi as a scholar, with no also an expert in utilizing the language writing of Dr. Puttaparthi and compared degrees. He is a self made poet. Dr. in tune with the situation. Sri Sastry him with Shakespeare and Milton. He Janumaddi Hanumatsastri, the Founder described Puttaparthi’s poems as an artist’s expressed his surprise over the Secretary of the C.P. Brown Research reflection of the golden age of past phenomenal memory of Puttaparthi Centre for Languages was the guest of and plight of the present Telugu. Sri who remembered the entire text of honour. Sasi Sri, in his keynote address Reddy very intently explained the Milton’s Paradise Lost. M. Sampatkumar talked about his close association with background of the poem “Gandhiji Dr. Puttaparthi throughout his life and Mahaprasthanam.” He also explained in described Puttaparthi as a unique and described him as one of the makers detail the image of Gandhiji as reflected independent literary critic who had the of Indian literature. in the poem. Elamarty Madhusudan knowledge of both east and west and The first session was chaired by traced out the influence of classical also explained the characteristics of his Vidwan Katta Narasimhulu in which M. Telugu poets like Nannaya and Tikkana literary criticism. Mallikarjuna Reddy presented a paper on Srinivasa Prabandham and also the The valedictory session was chaired “Janapriya Ramayanam and Pandari originality of Puttaparthi in creating such by T. Vasanti in which Puttaparthi Bhagavatam” and G.V. Sai Prasad excellent literary works. Nagapadmini Devi, daughter of presented on “Meghadootam and The third session was chaired by P. Puttaparthi, delivered the valedictory Purogamanam.” The chair, Sri Narasimhulu Sanjeevamma, in which the first proper addresses. described Dr. Puttaparthi as a perfect blend of tradition and experiment. Dr. Reddy clarified, though many poets right from the medieval poet Tikkana to Gadiyaram Venkata Sesha Sastry to contemporary poets have translated Valmiki Ramayana into Telugu, but Puttaparthi’s Janapriya Ramayanam is a unique recreation of Valmiki in Telugu. He categorically explained the creative zeal of Puttaparthi, particularly the depiction of Kika. Sri Prasad described the Meghaduootam of Puttaparthi as next to the Meghasandesa of Kalidasa in Indian literature. He also said that Puttaparthi was influenced by the early progressive writer Sri Sri. L-R: Bhatla Syamasundar, N. Gopi, Janumaddi Hanumatsastri and Chandrashekhara Reddy

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 43 Inauguration of Book Exhibition & Poets Meet Loka: The Many Voices Tamil Poets In the ‘Loka’ programme, organized on 11 October 2013 at Tamizh Sangam, Salem, Tamil Nadu, Drum Dance (Thappattam), Karagattam, Oyilattam and Silampattam were performed. The songs, music, dance and prose narration mingled so beautifully to project the folk lore. The programme commenced with sacred music by Vasanthi and Kaviri Durai. The folk song pointed out the Tamil conventions which were followed in Silappadigaram. Eight dancers performed ‘Thappatam’ (drum dance) in Karagattam carrying a conical vessel on the head. It was a colourful dance performed Sahitya Akademi conducted a ‘Poets’ Meet’ under its in a grand manner. The group dance ‘Oyilattam’ was highly Literary Forum programme on 9 October 2013 in attractive with graceful movements. The stick dance Salem. Suganthi Sudharsanam inaugurated the five day accompanied by sonorous Tamil songs had fast paced music literary programmes. K. A. Murugesan, Dean, AVS and deft movements. Arts & Science College inaugurated the book exhibition. Niraimadhi chaired the poets’ meet. M. G. Rajan recited his poem which dealt with the problems of youth. Suriyanila’s poem was on a rural god who safeguards the lives and properties of villages. P. Suresh’s poems presented the philosophy in Thirukkural. K. Anandh’s poem reflected his flight of fancy.

Narichetana Tamil Women Poets

Short Story Reading

Tamil Short Story Writers

Akademi organized a short story reading on 10 October 2013. Ravindra Bharathi chaired the session. He spoke on the origin, development and recent changes in the form and content of short story. The internet has given A poetry reading evening under ‘Narichetana’ a new pace to short story. A crisp and fast paced programme series was organized at Salem on 13 version of literature has evolved giving entertainment October 2013. V. Vallarasi chaired the poets’ meet. and enlightenment to the young generation. He read The poets who participated in ‘Narichetna’ programme his short story “Oor Nizhal” (Shadow of the Village). are well-known poets in their own right. M. Gomathi, The short story concentrated on the pleasures and pains Oviya, S. Tamizharasi Thevitta Mani and Shobana of rural life. L. Vincent, Tamil Selva, Raghudeva, Sandiyur recited their poems. The poems read out in the programme Govindhan and S. Rangarajan also read their short dealt with the problems of women in particular and stories. The stories were realistic, rich in description the human predicament in general. and spontaneous with dialogues. Most of the stories revolved around Salem.

44 BENGALURU Asmita with Kannada Women Poets

Chandrasekhara Kambar, Vice-President, Sahitya Akademi was invited to inaugurate the ‘National Book Week.’ An ‘Asmita’ programme inviting five women poets was parallelly arranged with the inauguration of ‘National Book Week.’ P. Chandrika, Member Kannada Advisory Board, M.R. Bhagavathi, Vidya Rashmi, Chaya Bhagavathi and D.C. Geetha participated in the ‘Asmita’ programme. Dr. Kambar in his opening speech said that ‘The National Book Week,’ is a meaningful event. He said that the books in the exhibition would help the readers to have a clear idea of literatures written Chandrasekhar Kambar delivering introductory speech in Indian languages. L-R: P. Chandrika, D.C. Geetha and M.R. Bhagavathi The ‘Asmita’ programme was held At the end of the programme, Dr. foreign authors and supplement them after the inauguration of the event. It Kambar informed that we have ample with extra interpretations in our speeches; was followed by a lively interactive and affluent literatures in our Dravidian but unluckily we do forget to read rich session. languages. We have undue fascination for reserves of our own literatures.

Mulakat Malayalam and Kannada Writers A ‘Mulakat’ programme was held on Neo-Modernism 20 November 2013 at Mythic Society, in Malayalam Bangalore. Narahalli Balasubramanya, literature. Sri Convenor, Kannada Advisory Board Ramanthalli chaired the programme. Sudhakaran remarked that Ramanthalli, noted Malayalam-Kannada absence of translator and writer, H.N. Arathi, creativity leads to popular Kannada poet and Venkatapu upsurge of Sathyam, Kannada Dalit writer had vandalism. Sri participated in the programme. Sathyam is Smt. Arathi, said that young writers associated with the in Kannada have broken the shackles Dalit movements of the yard sticks of literary movements and said that and are creating their own style and Kannada Dalit metaphors. She read five of her poems writers like L-R: Sudhakaran Ramanthalli, Narahalli Balasubramanya and and also read the poems of Prahara Siddalingaiah, Venkatapu Sathyam Kotturu, Nagathihalli Ramesh and Lakshmipathi Kolar and Kotaganahalli and they wish to read only the best Rajendra Prasad to give the audience Ramaiah etc., have influenced him. He literatures written in the language. a new taste of poetry.Sri Ramanthalli sang his Kannada poem and also read Referring to the speech of Sri Ramanthalli, delivered a speech on the Malayalam one of his poems. Narahalli Narahalli recalled the sayings of Lohiya literature in general. He spoke on the Balasubramanya, remarked that the that “Without the creativity the societies Modernism, Post-Modernism and readers to-day are quite erudite enough will become impoverished.”

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 45 Panel Discussion on Books

As part of the ‘National Book Week’ programme, ‘A Panel Discussion on Books’ was held on 18 November 2013 at Mythic Society by Sahitya Akademi, Bengaluru. S. Carlos, noted academician and Tamil writer, K.K. Gangadharan, well-known translator, N. Ravikumar, Publisher, Abhinava Books, Bangalore and Indira Kumari from Nava Karnataka Publications were present during the programme as speakers. N. Ravikumar elaborately spoke on the present scenario of publishing and marketing of Kannada books and informed that his publishing house has built a large number of readers in the course of time. He said “The readers are our backbone and we do not depend on institutional L-R: K.K. Gangadharan delivering his speech purchase.” L-R: S. Carlos, Indira Kumari, Nagathihalli Ramesh and N. Ravikumar S. Carlos, former Director of Sahitya Akademi’s Translation Centre, spoke on the Kannada, Tamil and Nagathihalli Ramesh spoke on the books written by Leo English books and also the writers he had acquainted Tolstoy, P. Lankesh, Alanahalli Sri Krishna, Devanooru Mahadeva with. He re-collected how he was influenced by the writings etc., which sinfluenced him and reformed him. He also said of Jorge Luis Borges. An artist’s conceptualisations of that how he became humane after reading the books of these books were altogether transcendental,” he said. He spoke great stalwarts. on certain publishers who contributed more for the Indira Kumari from Nava Karnataka Publications explained development of Tamil language and literature than any broadly on the process of publishing, marketing and also government sponsored institutions. on the concepts of maintaining customer friendly relationships K.K. Gangadharan, noted translator and writer, affirmed with the readers. She said “One who loves the books can that only the writings and reading books can bring in love the entire world.” She informed that books had transformed changes in the society and one’s personal life. her life over the years.

Literary Forum Valavan spoke on the 18 didactic works, Patinenkilkanakku which are guidelines to Moral Awareness among Youth through moral and ethical values in life, among them Tirukkural, Naladiyar, Tirikadugam, Literature Madurai Kanchi and others advocate important codes of behaviour. Tirukkural Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘Literary divinity. Appar, Sundarar, Sambandhar is an internationally acclaimed treatise on Forum’ on “Moral Awareness among and Manickavasagar wanted people to moral values. He also commented on Youth through Literature” on 17 serve the helpless and downtrodden the works of Thirumoolar and December 2013 at Platinum Jubilee people. Arunagirinadhar. Avvaiyar’s Athichudi gives Auditorium, University of Madras, Lakshmi Narayanan spoke on moral pithy comments for youngsters. The Marina Campus Chennai. Aranga values in Sangam Literature. He modern age produced great saints and Ramalingam spoke on moral values in mentioned that love is the basic feeling litterateurs like Vallalar, Mayuram Bakthi literature. The 63 Nayanmars, which binds the society. Akananooru Vedanayagampillai and Manonmaniam Alwars and the Saivite and Vaishnavite portrays the orderly love in five different Sundaram Pillai who shaped the saint-poets emphasized on devotion perspectives. Purananuru praises acts of society towards the moral path. M. through moral values. Andal advised to nobility, munificence and heroism as the Sargunavathy spoke on the ethics in avoid ignoble acts and malicious words. 18 ancient poems, 10 idylls and eight modern literature and also proposed the Ramanujar made equality as a creed of collections are examples of ethical values. vote of thanks.

46 BENGALURU North-East and Southern Poetry Festival

North East India’s multifaceted and multilayered cultural heritage generates great interest today. There is a need for greater awareness about North East culture and literature especially among the youth. Sahitya Akademi undertakes the task of connecting the North-East literary sensibility to the rest of India and vice versa to keep alive cultural interaction, multi cultural understanding between the languages and regions

‘North – East and Southern Poetry Festival’ was organised on 7 and 8 December 2013 at Jain University, Bengaluru. S.P. Mahalingeshwar, Officer- in-Charge, Sahitya Akademi, Bengaluru briefly welcomed the guests and audience. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary of Sahitya Akademi gave an introductory address. He introduced the importance of the event to the guests. He stated in his address that similar programmes have been organised by the Akademi with keen interest to create literary dialogue between the North-East literature and literature written in other parts of the country. The concept of the event was introduced by Narahalli Balasubramanya, Convenor, Kannada Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi. Lakshmi Narayana Bhatta, eminent Kannada writer, as the guest of honour presented one of his Kannada poems Chandrasekhar Kambar lighting the lamp To his right: K. Sreenivasarao; to his left: Lakshmi Narayana Bhatta after delivering a brief speech about the and Narahalli Balasubramanya varied hues and motifs of the Indian literary landscape. He presented one of the poets presented their veiws from globalization have made the world small. his popular poems in Kannada which their personal spheres and also responded At such a time it was important to “seek reflected the nostalgic images. to the changing social spaces. Influence bondage with the soil and strengthen The poets who were present for of the Western thought on the style and our roots.” He also pointed out that the poetry reading in the inaugural and structure of Indian poetry was also in the post-Independent India the poet the first session were Jiban Narah visible from their presentation. was presented with the ethical problem (Assamese), Siddalinga Pattanashetti Dr. Kambar delivered his presidential of choice of the subject on which s/ (Kannada), Sreedharan Unni (Malayalam), address at the end of the inaugural he chooses to write and express. Very A.C. Netrajit (Manipuri), Erode session, after rendering his poem ‘Mao ardently, he spoke how while using the Tamilanban (Tamil) and Ambika Ananth Tse tunga’ in a musical form. In his medium of our mother-tongue through (Telugu). Dr. Sreenivasarao gave a brief address, he drew the attention of the literary genres we “find our language introduction about all the poets. Mostly audience to the fact that modernity and and lose the world.”

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 47 The first session was chaired by N. (Telugu), and Shafeeq Abidi (Urdu) The third session and last session Gopi; Gopinath Brahma (Bodo), B.R. recited their poems. was chaired by H.S. Venkatesha Murthy. Lakshmana Rao (Kannada), J. Prameela Sri Das rendered the poems, “The He introduced the poets for the session Devi (Malayalam), Thiru Prasad Nepal Diary of an Abducted”, “Nagpur 1994”, who represented different Indian (Nepali), Thenmozhi (Tamil) and “Canine Duo”, “Bloodbath” which were languages–Jogmaya Chakma (Chakma), Annavaram Devender (Telugu) recited lyrical expressions filled with pathos and Chandrashekhara Thalya (Kannada), their poems. Simple but metaphorical dry humour. Jayashree Kambara’s poems Chandrakant Murasingh (Kokborok), expressions about everyday events as according to Sri Robin though written Christina Wanniang (Khasi), P.P. reflected from the poems drew in a subjective mode were expressions Ramachandran (Malayalam), Aadhavan admiration from the audience and led of romance conveyed with gentle irony. Dheechanya (Tamil) and Jukanti to a discussion on the keen observations Madhusoodan Nair rendered a long Jagnnathan (Telugu). Prof. Murthy in his of the poets. It was pointed out that poem in Malayalam, ‘Anyonya,’ followed concluding speech drew attention to a poetry is nothing but the outpourings by the translated version ‘To each other’ famous saying, “A poem is understood of the interactive responses of the internal which voiced pain, fear, tension and while it is well read”. Catching the sound world with the external world. The suspicion of an ordinary Indian. The helps in receiving the poem with all its imagery, metaphors, language and other renowned Telugu poet Rajeshwari sensibilities. He pointed out the paradox creative expressions are the vehicles which Diwakarla’s poems drew the attention which existed in our country when we carry feelings of a sensitive heart to a of the readers to the drama of everyday talk about Russian writers, Bolshevik sensitive mind. But poetry does not only life laced with the concern of Singers, French and German poets, but preach it also draws our attention to globalization. Shafeeq Abidi the Urdu we do not know our own Indian writers. many social and political issues. poet, rang the bells of harmony and According to him, we are unable to On the second day, the session began brotherhood while effectively using express our idea of Indian poetry because with the introductory remarks by Robin traditional images and motifs. Robin S. we do not know anything beyond our S. Ngangom who said that a meaningful Ngangom, in the end, after presenting own language; he cited some examples poem changes and heals. This session his own poems on childhood memories from Kannada. He also observed that was chaired by Robin S. Ngangom and of Manipur during Holi had a spiritual the poets with a liberal use of symbols Dilip Das (Bengali, North-East), connotation more than the social aspects. and metaphors expressed different Jayashree Kambara (Kannada), Subbu He brought out, as the violent and sentiments, mainly about the structures Holeyar (Kannada), V. Madhusoodanan intolerant world through metaphors and of the society and the realities of life Nair (Malayalam), Rajeswari Diwakarla imagery. of a common man.

L-R: Siddalinga Pattanashetti reading out his poems L-R: Sreedharan Unni, Chandrasekhar Kambar, A.C. Netrajit, Jiban Narah and Ambika Ananth

48 BENGALURU Symposium Gundert – Keralapanini

Sahitya Akademi in association with on “Metaphor in Malayalam grammar: Concepts and Department of Malayalam, University of Meaning.” He made cognitive analysis to the metaphor Kerala conducted a one day symposium on in Gundert’s grammar. He said that Gundert had the insight the occasion of Gundert–Keralapanini Birth that the relation between syntax and grammar was anniversary celebration on 19 November conceptual. P. Sreekumar presented a paper on “Modern 2013 at Senate Chamber, University of Linguistics and Keralapaniniyam.” He pointed out the Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. challenges being faced in language studies in South India The programme was inaugurated by K. S. Ravikumar, by the researchers and linguistics. Joseph Scariah presented an eminent critic. Initiating the deliberation on the centenary a paper on “Auxiliary Verbs and Stylistics of Language.” authors, the symposium would explore new perspectives P. Jayakrishnan spoke on the “Influence of Nannul in from the works of the authors, Dr. Ravikumar said. Keralapaniniyam.” He pointed out that Keralapaniniyam Eminent critic and language scholar Scaria Zachariach gave followed the case study of Tamil grammar especially the the keynote address which centered around the theme Nannul and this kind of study was mainly found in “Heritage of Malayalam Language.” He told, “Malayalam Malayalam and Tamil is a language with many dialects which makes it versatile.” The third session was chaired by B.V. Sasikumar. Seema He blamed the new media for creating new words and terminologies with no logic at the cost of best words Jerome presented a paper on “Formal and Informal already existing in the language. He advised the new Usages in Grammatical Texts.” The study was based on generation to understand the history of our languages for Keralapaniniyam and Gundert’s grammar. Harikumar the revival. Puthussery Ramachandran recalled the richness Changampuzha delivered a speech on the integrity of of 2500 years old Ashtadhyayi by Panini and the rich Gundert’s grammar. He said that Gundert is the real master grammatical heritage of India. The presidential address who showed the real path to Keralapanini. The last paper was given by C. R. Prasad who said that this is the golden of the session was presented by C.R. Prasad. He described period of Malayalam language as it has attained the status how Keralapaniniyam became the grammar of Dravidian of classical language and we have to actively take part languages. in reviving the language. The first session was chaired by Venugopala Panicker who also presented a paper on “Historic Perspective of Grammar.” He pointed out that Dravidian languages have structurally developed when compared to other group of language. “Grammatical concepts of Keralapanini and Gundert” was the topic of V.P. Markose. He observed that Keralapaniniyam and Gundert’s grammar were both the by-products of colonial modernism. L. Sushamma’s paper “Keralapaniniyam- A Sociological reading.” was the study of nationalism in Keralapaniniyam in the perspective of Benedict Anderson’s ‘imagine community.’ She explained how a language acts as a catalyst for the formation of a ‘Linguistic nation.’ The second session was chaired by Puthussery L-R: Scaria Zachariah delivering keynote address Ramachandran and P.M Girish presented a paper To his right C.R. Prasad and K.S. Ravikumar

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 49 Kalladan, an eminent Tamil poet and Symposium a sibling to late Vanidasan presided over the first session. His presentation on Centenary Poet Vanidasan Vanidasan’s epic and its theme and texture in his songs for the children drew a Revival of Vanidasan literature would be the need of the hour rapt attention of the audience. Kalladan whose sensibilities are specifically against casteism, for women spoke with authenticity and clarity through his personal experience. Kalladan empowerment, socialism and equality explained the strong link between Bharatidasan and Vanidasan. He also ahitya Akademi would be the need of the hour specifically spoke about the poets who belonged Sheld one day against casteism, for women to Bharatidasan school of poetry namely symposium on empowerment, socialism and equality. Puduvai Sivam, Mudiarasan and Tamiloli. poet Vanidasan to He also mentioned the musical aspects Hussain, a Tamil poet, in his presentation mark his centenary of his poems, and accepted Nallankilli’s praised Vanidasan’s skill in composing celebrations on 31 proposal for a compilation of complete poetry with modern themes. He spoke December 2013 at works of Vanidasan. about the innate and ornamental aspects Tamizh Sangam. Maraimalai Ilakkuvanar in his key- of his poems. His epic poems A.S. Ilangovan, note address mentioned that Vanidasan “Tamizhachi”, “Kodimullai”, officer in charge, Sahitya Akademi was described as Wordsworth of Tamil “Theerthayathirai” and “ Kavithai delivered the welcome speech. language whereas Bharatidasan was Kathai”, were written in the classical K. Nachimuthu who presided over described as Tagore in Tamil. He was format on their themes such as socialism, the inaugural session said in his presidential inspired by Subramania Bharati for his untouchability, casteism etc. Nature address that Vanidasan waged a war for love for nature and nationalism, and formed an integral part in all his poems. the sake of language. He served as differed from Bharatidasan for his strong The epic poems possessed all the dramatic spokesperson for C. N. Annadurai like pro-dalitism. He has sung about slums elements of great poetry. Kandasamy Bharatidasan was for Periyar. He spoke which could be sung all over the nation. pointed out that though Vanidasan was about Vanidasan’s relevance today during Sambath proposed a vote of thanks at a lover of peace and solitude, he always this time of unrest. Revival of his literature the end of the inaugural session. treated nature in a practical way.

R-L: Maraimalai Ilakkuvanar, K. Nachimuthu, Sambath and others

50 BENGALURU Yugabharathi spoke about “Vanidasan’s Poems for Children.” He said that Vanidasan took the role of a mother, father and teacher when it comes to strict advice, informal teaching, subtle instructions and implied information including pampering with literature for children. Songs for children written by him are simple, musical and melodious, as if the world is seen through the eyes of a child. Su. Velmurugan was the chairperson of the third session. He shared his direct Era Meenakshi (Centre) chairing the event along with the other poets acquaintance and experience with the poet. Velmurugan wrote books on Vanidasan’s literature. Narichetna Women Poets’ Meet Manimegalai Kuppusamy, Bharatidasan’s grand daughter spoke on Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘Narichetna’ continuous campaign to abolish the the impact of Bharatidasan on Vanidasan’s programme on 28 October 2013 at devadasi system were instrumental to poems. She reminisced the relationship Thamizh Sangam, Puducherry. the Devadasi Abolition Bill which shared between Bharatidasan and R. Sambath, a Tamil critic, welcomed outlawed the practice in 1947. Va. Pa. Vanidasan, and the latter’s gratitude and the guests. He said that though Sangam Thamaraikanniammayar, Ganamma and respect for his master. literature has rich contributions by 49 and several other social reformers were Aranga Nadarasan spoke elaborately women poets who reflected their the products of Dravidian Movement. on Vanidsan’s prosody. experiences and sentiments of their She spoke about the contemporary Vanidsan’s use of prosody and period, we could see the same tradition writers who represent the voice of Dalits romanticism in his poetry were discussed and practice, even in contemporary and oppressed. in detail by Manoharan. He explained times. Era Meenakshi, well-known Tamil Shyamala also made a detailed analysis how romanticism came to vogue in poet and writer chaired the session who of the evolution of ‘150 years of short Tamil literature through Subramania has a long literary journey since 1970. story’ for in three phases. She mentioned Bharati, the influence of Shelley on Srividhya, presented her short poems the role of Damayanthi, Moovalur Bharatidasan and later on Vanidasan. on various topics like privatization, Ramamirtham and Kumudhini in the Vanidasan’s deep rooted sensibility of globalization etc. She gave a methodical early phase and Lakshmi, Sivasankari in Sangam poetry blend with French survey about the contribution of modern the 1960s. She made a special mention romanticism of Rousseau and others women novelists writing in pre and of Ambai. She also spoke on the was soaked in realism. It is a continuation post-independence era. She remarked contributions by Bama and Sivakami as of Sangam literature in its essence but that though the literacy rate among dalit women writers of the third or in a modern outlook. women has increased, their contribution contemporary phase. A. Pandurangan, who wrote on in the field of literature and journalism Porkalai, a strong feminist presented Vanidasan delivered the valedictory has not improved. Srividhya mentioned a study of 50 women poets. Writing address, summed up all the points about the influences of two major about women’s physical yearnings, desire discussed in the symposium and also movements namely, the movement by for non-dependence on men, expression shared his own experience with the poet. Mahatma Gandhi and the Dravidian of pain in feminist literature were Sethupathy, Member, Tamil Advisory Movement of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy highlighted by her. Feminist aesthetics, Board, Sahitya Akademi proposed the which fostered emancipation for women. issues related to society and home, the vote of thanks. Moovalur Ramamirtham was a social expression of dalit and oppressed classes reformer, author, and political activist of women are some of the significant of the Dravidian Movement. The public aspects found in the writings of women awareness created by her novel and her today, she concluded.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 51 Birth Centenary Symposium Muttathu Varkey

he symposium on Muttathu usage. The language of popular literature seeks to bring T Varkey on the occasion of his out the features of culture, power, politics, gender etc. birth Centenary which was held on Muttathu Varkey’s works also depicted this simplicity and 13 December 2013 at St. Berchmans’ versatility. The second paper was presented by Sunil P. College, Changanacherry witnessed the Elayidam titled as “Popular and Populist Conceptual presence of many eminent Reflections.” The third paper was on “Politics of Popular personalities form all over Kerala. Imagination” presented by Shaji Jacob. The fourth paper In the inaugural session, K.S. which was on “Muttathu Varkey and Malayalam Cinema” Ravikumar said that Muttathu Varkey’s was presented by P.S. Radhakrishnan. Paadatha Pyngili was writings targeted the common man and his characters were the first novel of Varkey which was made into a film moulded with great craftsmanship. in 1957. Twenty six novels of Muttathu Varkey were In the presidential address, he said that Changampuzha converted into films all of which were box office hits. popularized poetry, then Muttathu Varkey was the one The social relevance of those films as well as the novels who popularized prose”. He also stated that Varkey was was the reason for such success. a prophet who fostered the gospel of creativity and The second session was chaired by C.R. Omanakuttan. imagination. The unity of written and spoken word which The first paper was presented by K.S. Jayashree titled “is indeed the acid test for a writer’s expertise” was present as “The Local Culture in Muttathu Varkey’s Novels.” in Muttathu Varkey’s works, he concluded. Varkey’s life revolved only within a short area starting The eminent critic, M. Thomas Mathew in his inaugural from his hometown. The settings of his novels were also address, stated that Muttathu Varkey created a world of within the area he moved along. The simplicity and clarity literature around him and his goal was to prosper the of thoughts made Muttathu Varkey well-known as a world. The birth of a masterpiece is a gradual process regional writer. His novels enlightened the readers by which needs a lot of dedication by the writer. He also teaching them about values like truth and honesty. His reminded that mere education of our society is not enough. characters gave a lot of importance to relationships. He Instead we must grow among a world created by words wrote against social evils like dowry system and alcoholism. in order to shape positive attitude towards society and His works also unfolded the traditions, customs, language life. Muttathu Varkey possessed this quality of creating and food habits of Kerala. The paper showed that he such a world. “A forest becomes a forest not just by was successful in creating a great impact among the reading the presence of big trees, but also by the presence of public. The second paper in the session was presented other plants and shrubs. Muttathu Varkey was one such by M.R. Mahesh. The paper “The Language and Narration plant who contributed his best to the world of literature”, of Muttathu Varkey’s Novels” presented perspectives of he added. The poetic rhythm which lied underneath human life and his style of narration incorporated the Muttathu Varkey’s mind was reflected in all his works. past, present and future to illustrate one’s life. The final It was followed by the keynote address by the eminent paper in the second session by A.G. Sreekumar focused critic Scaria Zacharia. He described Muttathu Varkey’s on “Muttathu Varkey’s Plays.” Varkey’s plays could be works as ‘popular fiction’. Twenty-six novels of Varkey categorized into three: political, social and religious. His were made into films. The convergence between real world plays exposed the corruption in political parties and and virtual world could be seen in his novels. A reader inhumane activities of capitalist forces. The most criticized has to enter into such a world to fully enjoy his works. play of Varkey exposed the monopoly of the Church Dr. Scaria also insisted for a deep rooted evaluation of and the capitalists and also preached the importance of Varkey’s works and emphasized on proper research projects spirituality. The women characters in his plays were needed to be done on him. individuals of substance. On the whole all his plays testified The first session of the symposium was chaired by great social relevance, Sri Sreekumar concluded. M.K. Madhavan Nair. C.R. Prasad presented his paper In the valedictory session, George Joseph K. evaluated “Language of Popular Literature”. The language used in and summed up all the papers besides giving his own popular literature is closely related to that of our daily perspectives on the works of Varkey.

52 BENGALURU ahitya Akademi organized a Centenary Symposium Ssymposium on Tirumala Ramachandra at NTR auditorium of Telugu University, Hyderabad on 22 Tirumala Ramachandra January 2013 to celebrate his birth centenary. Tirumala Ramachandra was a prominent writer, an eminent journalist and a profound scholar of Telugu. Sri S.P. Mahalingeshwar, Officer-in-Charge, Bengaluru welcomed the august audience of writers and journalists of Hyderabad. G.S. Varadachary, a veteran journalist and President of Journalists Association delivered the inaugural address. He described Ramachandra as a laureate and versatile genius in many Indian languages in addition to his mother tongue, Telugu. Ravva Srihari, Former Vice- Chancellor of Dravidian University and a well-read scholar in both Telugu and Sanskrit highlighted the contribution of Ramachandra to Telugu language and L-R: T. Udayawarlu lighting the lamp literature. Particularly the writer’s To his right N. Gopi and Ravva Srihari contribution to Telugu lexicography and linguistic development was elaborated journalism and literature are unique and simplicity of the author and high values by him. distinct. adhered to his life. The valedictory N. Gopi, Convenor of Telugu The second session was chaired by address was delivered by Nandiraju Advisory Board and an eminent poet G.S. Varadachary in which R.V. Rama Radhakrishna, a senior journalist. He chaired the inaugural session. He touched Rao presented his views on the biography concluded that the doyen could be upon the poignant narrative style of Hampinunchi Harappadaka by Tirumala; seen as a ‘Cultural hero’ and literary Ramachandra and his critical essays on J. Chennaiah in his paper unveiled the seer.’ Telugu authors. Lakshman Rao, veteran journalist was a guest of inaugural session. Mulakat with Tamil Short Story Writers In the first session, Chowduri Upender Rao presented a paper on Tirumala Ramachandra’s research works A ‘Mulakat’ programme at Gopalasamuthiram, Middle School auditorium, in Pali and Prakrit. M. Narayana Sarma Mannarkudi was organised on 28th December 2013. N. Viswanathan poet and in his paper dwelt on Ramachandra’s short story writer chaired the session. He also read one of his short stories. unparallel contributions in the field of It dealt with the pains and pleasures of man-woman relationship. K. Anbazhagan linguistics. A. B. K. Prasad described (Harini) read a short story which describes the character of uncle Subbu who Tirumala’s pen-portraits as ‘unique’ in lived helping his relatives, friends and fellow villagers without selfishness. M. modern Telugu literature. Kalluri Meenatchi Sundaram’s (Meena Sundar) story was about a rich man exploiting Bhaskaran discussed at length the essays poor. Then he offers to prepare gruel for the village deity but the poor people of the doyen and gave illustrations. refused to take the gruel which they gave it back into the larger vessel of the Bandaru Srinivasa Rao in his rich man. Mani Ganesan scholar, writer and poet also read a short story titled chairperson’s remarks concluded that ‘Dream.’ M. Devi proposed the vote of thanks. Tirumala’s contribution to both

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 53 K. Satyanarayana spoke on the Tribute to Chi. Sreenivasa Raju Kannada novels. He delved deep into the novels as he spoke on Malegalalli Madumagalu by Kuvempu wherein different aspects of life are narrated, Mukajjiya Kanasugalu by Karanth who has delineated the mythical and realistic mode in it and Maimanagala Suliyalli by Karanth where the polygonal faces of life is narrated in a psychoanalytical manner. H.S. Raghavendra Rao in his speech pointed out that the modern fiction writings are crisp in style and theme. Nataraj Honnavalli spoke on the plays and also discussed different playwrights. The readings K.Y. Narayanaswamy from the plays by young writers concluded the session. During the valedictory session held in the evening, C.N. Ramachandran said that we could see both amity and assortment in the L-R: Narahaili Balasubramanya delivering his speech whole gamut of Kannada literature of To his left C.N. Ramachandran, M.H. Krishnaiah and N.B. Chandra Mohan the present century. The modern Kannada literature is quite vivacious, he said. Sahitya Akademi organised a literary Kannada literary world and he was a Narahalli Balasubramanya spoke on programme to pay tribute to Chi. source of inspiration for young writers. the intimate friendship that he had with Sreenivasa Raju’ on 1 December 2013 Amaresh Nugadoni spoke on the Sreenivasa Raju. N.B. Chandra Mohan in collaboration with B.M. Sri Pratishtana, writings of Yashwanth Chittal, Anantha quite interestingly remembered Sri Raju at B.M. Sri Kala Bhavana, Bengaluru. Murthy, Kum. Veerabhadrappa, Veena who was so resolute, clear and transparent A full day programme was held Shantheshwara, Bhanu Mushtaq and ahost in his behavior and activities. M.H. highlighting the various genres of of other fiction writers and compared Krishnaiah, eminent critic and who also Kannada literature besides rich tributes their style of writing with the style of happened to be a teacher of Sreenivasa paid to Kannada writer and literary contemporary young writers. Raju, recalled his interactions with him. exponent late Prof. Chi. Sreenivasa Raju. The first session was dedicated to Mulakat with Young Tamil Writers poetry, wherein Vikram Visaji presented his paper. Thereafter, in the session Sahitya Akademi arranged at ‘Mulakat’ programme on 12 Ocober 2013 at Salem devoted to short fiction, Amaresh Tamil Sangam, Salem, Tamil Nadu. K. Sudhandiram delivered the presidential Nugadoni and Vikram Hatwar delivered address and explained the literary creations of Maupassant, Kandekar, Rahulji their lectures. In the session on novels and Sri Sri. S. Velayudhan spoke on great works of Thakazhi, Vaikom Mohammed K. Satyanarayana and H.S. Raghavendra Basheer, Chandu Menon and their masterpieces. R. Venugopalsamy discussed on Rao gave their views and K.Y. early Greek and later British literary traditions and also commented on Narayanaswamy and Nataraja Honnavalli Anandharangapillai’s Dairy. He concluded with a comparative study of Tagore also spoke during the session on drama. and Bharathi. K. Tamilmaran spoke on Bengali literature and also Tamil translations P.V. Narayana, eminent Kannada of great Kannada works. Aranga Srinivasan lauded the role of translation as writer gave his introductory speech. He a ‘new age’ tool. The achievements of R. P. Sethupillai, Vaiyapuri Pillai, Mu. informed that late Prof. Chi. Sreenivasa Va. were recounted by him. Raju had immensely contributed to the

54 BENGALURU of Malayalam novel with good number of examples. Munjinadu Literary Forum Padma Kumar spoke about the style, theme and narrative techniques of Malayalam Literary Scenario, Post Modern Literary Theories contemporary Malayalam short and History & Heritage of Malayalam Poetry stories. The programme ended on a good spirit as students interacted with the Sahitya Akademi and the Department of Malayalam poetry. G. Padma Rao speakers and got enriched through the of Malayalam, Sree Shankaracharya explained the remarkable peculiarities discussions. University of Sanskrit, Regional Centre, Panmana (Kollam) jointly organized a ‘Literary Forum’ on 12 December 2013. Sheela Kumari, Campus Director of the university delivered the welcome speech and C.R. Prasad, presided over the meet. He delivered a lecture on contemporary scenario of Malayalam language and literature. Prasanna Rajan explained the post-modern literary theories which are popular in Malayalam criticism. Chavara K.S. Pillai gave a lecture on the history, and heritage and present situation L-R: Sheela Kumari delivering her speech along with other guest writers

Kavisandhi Bhavani Devi, Telugu poet

Sahitya Akademi organized two ‘Kavisandhi’ programmes with Chillara Bhavani Devi, eminent Telugu poet on 22 December 2013 at NTR Auditorium, Telugu University, Hyderabad and Kopparthy Venkata Ramana Murthy, eminent Telugu poet on 22 December 2013 at Anam Rotary Hall, Rajahmundry. Yendluri Sudhakar, Member, Telugu Advisory Board welcomed the guest and gathering and also introduced Sri Murthy to the audience. The poet, while addressing the audience, explained his sojourn in poetry from social consciousness to individual awakening. For him, poetry was an outcome of experience and exploration. He said that he had never gone for poetry but waited for it to come to him. The poet read out selected poems from his anthologies already published and also a few unpublished ones. The two programmes witnessed the rich tradition of poetry in Telugu. Sahitya Akademi’s interest and effort to promote literature and literary figures was highlighted by the audience in the interactive session.

Translators Meet

Translators’ Meet was held at Tamil Sangam, Puducherry on 30 December 2013. Maruthanayagam, Ilambharathy, Krishnamurthy, Manjakkal Upendiran and Sundara Murugan participated in the programme.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 55 National Book Week & Story Reading Programme Literary Programmes A story reading at a Literary Forum was held on 16 November 2013 at Cuddalore. R. Marshal Antony Leo In the event of the celebration of the National Book chaired the session. Valava. Duraiyan, P. Jeevakarunyan, Week, a book exhibition and a few literary programmes Bharathikumar and K. Asaithambi read their short stories. were organised from 14 to 20 November 2013 at Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. Mulakat with Tamil Writers

‘Mulakat’ programme was held at Cuddalore on 18 November 2013. S. Sivaraman (Sasi) chaired the programme. Pallavikumar, Kavi Mano and Jayasri recited their recent poems.

Kurinjivelan, well-known fiction writer was invited as the guest. Ve. Sabanayagam, eminent Tamil writer inaugurated the National Book Week. Noted writer Palki delivered the felicitation speech. A series of literary programmes Mulakat, Narichetana, Loka: The Many Voices, Liteary Forum and a Poets’ Meet were organised in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu Loka: The Many Voices Narichetana Tamil Women Writers ‘Loka Many Voices” programme was held at Cuddalore ‘Narichetana’ programme was held at Cuddalore on 15 on 19 November 2013. A folklore programme by Yelelo November 2013. P.Vijayalakshmi, District Librarian chaired Troupe performed three colourful song and dance sequences the poets’ meet. Vetriselvi Shanmugam, Ketharin, Padmabharathi on literary themes. Navajothi explained the varied features and Indira recited their poems. of folklore.

56 BENGALURU Valedictory Meet Poets’ Meet

In the valedictory meet at the end of the National Book Sahitya Akademi organised a ‘Poets’ Meet’ on 17 November week was held on 20th November 2030, valedictory address 2013 in Thiruchirappalli in which young poets recited their was delivered by Prapanjan, veteran Tamil fiction writer. R. recent poems. Ko. Kalia Murthy welcomed the gathering Viswanathan, principal of Periyar Govt. Arts College, and R. Kamarasu, General Council Member chaired the poets’ Cuddalore presided over and felication address was given meet. by R. Janarthanam. The eminent translator Kurinjivelan Rathika recited a poem on class-room stories that children proposed a vore of thanks. read. P. Ilangumaran recited three poems and K. Sathishkumar also read his poems. Tamil writers such as Angarai Bhairavi, Gandhi, Siva and Lenin participated in the discussion after the poetry reading. Many other poets, writers and lovers of literature attended the poetry reading programme. A ‘Literary Talk’ programme was held on 20 November 2013. R. Viswanathan, Principal, Periyar Govt. Arts College, Cuddalore delivered a talk on the best books and the best way to derive maximum benefit from them. Prabanjan, veteran fiction writer delivered the valedictory address on the role of books towards shaping the future of individuals and society and Rama Janarthanam delivered the felicitation speech. Kurinjivelan, a well-known writer and translator spoke on the occasion.

R. Viswanathan speaking. Prapanjan, Kurinjivelan and others

Mulakat with Tamil Writers

‘Mulakat’ programme with four Tamil fiction writers was organised on 19 October 2013 at Gopalasamuthiram, Mannargudi. R. Kamaraj, Tamil critic and General Council Member, Sahitya Akademi delivered the introductory address. K. Nachimuthu, Convenor, Tamil Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi chaired the ‘Mulakat’ programme. He called upon young writers to participate in Sahitya Akademi’s literary activities. Four short story writers spoke on their creative experience. R. Kamaraj introducing the writers. K. Nachimuthu (at the centre) and Vaimainadhan described the rural scene in and around Vaimainadhan, Ezhilmynthan and Mannarkudi Viswanathan with him Thanjavur in pre-Independence days. He was inspired by Subramania Bharati and Baharatidasan; Akilon’s fiction and edited by him. Veteran writer Solai Sundaraperumal spoke Kannadasan’s magazine Thendral also inspired him. The local on his works that described the social issues and conflicts environmental hazard was another source of inspiration to between the landlords and labourers in the fertile district write his novel Naali. of Thanjavur. Ezhilmynthan penned the history of freedom fighter V.O. Mannarkudi Viswanathan spoke on his first short story Chidambaram and had also published 11 short story collections. that dealt with the story of the parents with three daughters. His stories strive to be simple, powerful and realistic. He One of his stories was made into a short film by Balu also mentioned about a journal Kizhakku Vasal Udhayam being Mahendra. M. Devi proposed a vote of thanks.

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2013 57