Celebrating life and legacy of Kedarnath Singh
Kedarnath Singh (7 July 1934 – 19 March 2018) was an Indian poet who wrote in Hindi.
Early Life And Education
Kedarnath Singh was born on July 7, 1934, in the village of Chakia, located in the Ballia District of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. He hailed from a Gautam Rajput family. Singh completed his early education locally before pursuing higher studies at Udai Pratap College in Varanasi. He earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in Hindi from Banaras Hindu University. His academic journey led him to teach at various institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, where he eventually became a professor and head of the Hindi Language department.
Career And Achievements
Kedarnath Singh pursued higher education at Banaras Hindu University, earning an MA and a PhD in Hindi literature. Singh’s career as an academic included teaching positions at various institutions, culminating in his role as a professor and head of the Hindi Department at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. Singh’s poetry is celebrated for its simplicity and profound connection to everyday life. His major works include poetry collections such as “Abhi Bilkul Abhi,” “Zameen Pak Rahi Hai,” “Yahan se Dekho,” “Akaal Mein Saras,” and “Baagh.” His long poem “Baagh” is particularly renowned and widely studied in Hindi literature. Singh’s essays and critical works, such as “Mere Samay ke Shabd” and “Hindi Kavita Mein Bimb Vidhan,” further showcase his literary prowess.
Throughout his career, Singh received numerous prestigious awards. He was honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1989 for his poetry collection “Akaal Mein Saras” and the Jnanpith Award in 2013, India’s highest literary honor. Additionally, he received the Kumaran Aashan Award, the Vyas Award, and several other accolades, cementing his legacy as a towering figure in Hindi literature. His work continues to inspire and influence readers and writers alike.
Notable Events And Milestones
Kedarnath Singh career included teaching positions at various institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University, where he served as a professor and head of the Hindi Department. Significant milestones in Singh’s life include receiving the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1989 for his poetry collection “Akaal Mein Saras” and the prestigious Jnanpith Award in 2013. His poetry, characterized by its simplicity and profound themes, resonated deeply with readers, making him one of the most celebrated modern Hindi poets.
Kedarnath Singh’s contributions to society and culture are immense. His works often explored the beauty and struggles of everyday life, connecting deeply with the common man. He was part of the “Teesra Saptak,” a group of poets who revolutionized modern Hindi poetry through experimentalism. Singh’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of poets and writers, ensuring his lasting impact on Hindi literature and cultural discourse.
Awards And Honors
Kedarnath Singh, a distinguished Hindi poet, essayist, and critic, received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. Some of the notable ones include:
- **Jnanpith Award** (2013): India’s highest literary honor.
- **Sahitya Akademi Award** (1989): For his poetry collection “Akaal Mein Saras”.
- **Kumaran Asan Award**: Recognizing his contributions to literature.
- **Vyas Samman**: Another significant literary award.
- **Maithili Sharan Gupta Puraskaar**: Honoring his literary achievements.
- **Jeevan Bharati Puraskaar**: For his lifetime contributions to literature.
- **Dinkar Puraskaar**: Celebrating his impact on Hindi poetry.
These accolades reflect his profound influence on modern Hindi literature and his enduring legacy.
Additional Resources
To delve deeper into the life and works of Kedarnath Singh, here are some recommended resources:
Books
- **”Matdan Kendra Par Jhapaki”** – A collection of poems that reflect Singh’s unique style and themes.
- **”Akaal Mein Saras”** – This poetry collection earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award.
- **”Baagh”** – A long poem with the tiger as its central character, widely read in Hindi literature.
- **”Abhi Bilkul Abhi”** – Another notable collection of his poetry.
Documentaries
- **”The Tragic Tale of Kedarnath”** by National Geographic – This documentary explores the impact of the 2013 floods on the Kedarnath region.
- **”The Stillness of Kedarnath”** by National Geographic – Highlights the resilience and historical significance of the Kedarnath Temple.
Museums and Exhibits
While there may not be specific museums dedicated solely to Kedarnath Singh, his contributions to Hindi literature are often highlighted in literary festivals and exhibitions in India. Additionally, institutions like the **Sahitya Akademi** and **Jnanpith Award** exhibitions often feature his works and achievements.
These resources should provide a comprehensive understanding of Kedarnath Singh’s literary legacy and his impact on modern Hindi poetry.
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