By: Tania Saili Bakshi & Nikita Aggarwal
Pic Courtesy: Sachin Chauhan
Dehradun, 4 Aug: In a literary event that resonated with the spirit of poetic exploration and cultural exchange, VoW Café, Dehradun hosted a discussion on the book “DIVIJA” by esteemed author Indu Pande. The event, held today, brought together literature enthusiasts and scholars for an engaging evening filled with poetry, reflection, and insightful dialogue.
The session was moderated by Dr Sushil Upadhyay, a distinguished academician and literary figure known for his extensive contributions to language, media, and Hindi literature. Dr Upadhyay, currently serving as the Principal of the Government Aided Chamanlal Autonomous Post Graduate College in Landhaura, Haridwar, has a rich academic and literary background. He has previously held notable positions such as Deputy Director of the Uttarakhand Language Institute and Deputy Secretary of the Uttarakhand Hindi Academy, Dehradun. With 18 books and over 50 research papers to his credit, Dr Upadhyay brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion.
Author Indu Pande’s journey as a writer began in Urdu Shayari. His initial foray into this genre was marked by a deep love for the lyrical beauty and rich cultural heritage of Urdu poetry. However, recognising the need for a strong command over the language, Pande transitioned to writing in Hindi while continuing to nurture his affection for Urdu. This bilingual prowess is evident in his body of work, which includes early publications such as “Bombay Ek Nazariya” and “Raat- Ek Manzar”. These works capture the essence of Mumbai, where he was posted as an Income Tax officer in 1973, coming from a smaller town and experiencing the city’s vibrant yet overwhelming culture.
A favourite quote of the author, “If your daily life seems poor, do not blame it; blame yourself that you are not poet enough to call forth its riches, for the creator there is no poverty,” reflects his philosophical outlook and belief in the transformative power of poetry.
“DIVIJA” is a compelling collection of 51 poems that showcases Pande’s unique ability to weave together Hindi and Urdu poetry. Published by Doon Library and Samay Sakshya, the collection also includes English translations, making the rich cultural and linguistic tapestry accessible to a broader audience. The book’s title, “DIVIJA”, meaning “born of the sky” or “divine”, encapsulates the ethereal and transcendent quality of Pande’s poetic expression.
The poems in “DIVIJA” explore a wide range of themes, from personal introspection and philosophical musings to social commentary and cultural observations. Pande’s dual linguistic approach not only celebrates the beauty of languages but also bridges cultural divides, offering readers a unique literary experience.
The discussion began with Dr Sushil Upadhyay introducing Indu Pande and highlighting his contributions to Indian literature. Dr Upadhyay’s distinguished career, including his academic leadership and literary achievements, provided a robust framework for the evening’s dialogue. His deep understanding of language and literature enriched the conversation, providing context and drawing parallels between Pande’s work and broader literary traditions.
Indu Pande shared insights into his creative process, reflecting on his transition from Urdu to Hindi poetry and the challenges of mastering different linguistic and cultural nuances. He spoke passionately about the inspiration behind “DIVIJA” and how his experiences in Mumbai influenced his writing. The author also recited select poems from the book, captivating the audience with his expressive delivery and the evocative imagery in his verses.
The interactive session allowed attendees to ask questions and engage in discussions with the author. Topics ranged from the technical aspects of writing in multiple languages to the thematic concerns present in Pande’s work. The audience was particularly interested in Pande’s perspective on the contemporary relevance of traditional poetic forms and the role of poetry in social change.
Dr Upadhyay’s moderation was instrumental in guiding the discussion, ensuring a smooth flow and deeper analyses of the poems. His expertise in Hindi literature provided valuable insights into the cultural and historical contexts of Pande’s work. The houseful event concluded with the attendees getting an opportunity to interact personally with Indu Pande and Dr Upadhyay.
The discussion of “DIVIJA” at the Valley Of Words (VoW) Cafe was a celebration of poetry, culture, and the enduring power of language. The evening underscored the importance of literary events in fostering cultural exchange and promoting a deeper understanding of diverse literary traditions. As Indu Pande aptly noted, poetry is not just a form of artistic expression but a lens through which we can explore and appreciate the complexities of life.
