Literature as a Source of Inspiration for Realizing Ideals

In a significant gathering at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi, the Sahitya Akademi, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, hosted a Literary Conference titled “How Much has Literature Changed?” The event, inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu, attracted a diverse group of writers, poets, and literary scholars from across India. The conference aimed to explore the evolution of literature and its reflection on societal changes.

President Murmu’s Inaugural Address

During her inaugural speech, President Murmu expressed her deep admiration for writers and her long-held desire to host them at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She quoted Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, interpreting his words to reflect her gratitude for being part of the nation’s literary heritage. Drawing from the Valmiki Ramayana, she highlighted the story of Sita-Rama as a unifying element in society. The President shared a personal anecdote about how Fakir Mohan Senapati’s story “Rewati” profoundly influenced her, emphasizing that literature can inspire ordinary people to pursue their ideals. She praised Pratibha Ray’s novel “Draupadi” as a classic that resonates with human sensibilities. While acknowledging that literature evolves over time, she noted that core elements like compassion and sensibility remain unchanged. Furthermore, she remarked that contemporary literature is shaped by personal experiences rather than didactic teachings.

Reflections on Society and Literature

Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who served as the Guest of Honour, shifted the focus from the changes in literature to the transformations within society itself. He argued that literature mirrors societal changes, citing the works of Munshi Premchand, who critiqued social evils through his writings. Shekhawat emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership, India is experiencing a cultural revival, and the organization of this literary conference under the President’s aegis signifies a conscious effort towards cultural renaissance in the country. His remarks highlighted the interconnectedness of literature and societal evolution, suggesting that understanding one requires an understanding of the other.

Achievements of the Sahitya Akademi

Ms. Ranjana Chopra, Special Secretary and Financial Advisor at the Ministry of Culture, took the opportunity to commend the Sahitya Akademi for its significant contributions to Indian literature. She highlighted the Akademi’s recent achievements, including the publication of a book on Netaji Subhas Bose and the organization of international literary events like Unmesha. Chopra acknowledged the challenges literature faces in the context of rapid technological and social changes, stressing the importance of preserving literary originality amidst these transformations. Her insights underscored the Akademi’s role as a pivotal institution in nurturing and promoting literary culture in India.

A Celebration of Poetry

The inaugural ceremony culminated in a Poets’ Meet titled “Straight from the Heart,” featuring poets from various Indian languages. Dr. K. Sreenivasarao, Secretary of Sahitya Akademi, honored the poets with Angvastram, celebrating their contributions to literature. The session included recitations from renowned poets such as Sri Ranajit Das (Bengali), Smt. Mamang Dai (English), and Sri Shafi Shauq (Kashmiri), among others. Each poet shared heartfelt expressions of joy, sorrow, love, and longing, creating a profound connection with the audience. Eminent Urdu poet Sri Sheen Kaaf Nizam, who chaired the session, emphasized that poetry transcends mere listening; it is an experience to be felt. The event not only showcased the rich diversity of Indian literature but also reflected on its enduring legacy and future trajectory.

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