Six eminent writers read out from their works in the Dalit Chetna programme organized by Sahitya Akademi on the occasion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s birth anniversary. Mahendra Singh Beniwal, Mamta Jayant, Namdev and Neelam recited poems and Puran Singh and Tekchand read out short stories.
In their presentations, all highlighted the basic teachings of Dr Ambedkar and his vision with the help of which a discrimination-free society could be created. First of all Mamta Jayant presented her five poems, titled “Sabhi Ne Chhua Tha”, “Jeevit Imaraten”, “Ishwar”, “Nahi Chahiye” and “Baheliyon Ke Naam”.
Namdev read out his poems titled “Baba Bhim”, “Gaadiwaan”, “Kuan” and “Pehchaan”, which reflected the current status of Dr Ambedkar’s dreams. The titles of Neelam’s poems were “Sabse Buri Ladki”, “Nayi Duniya Ke Rachhayita”, “Tumhari Umeedon Pe Khare Utrenge Hum” and “Utho Sangharsh Karo”. The poem “Sabse Buri Ladki” inspired the struggle for women’s rights and equality.
Mahendra Singh Beniwal read out poems titled “Tasveer”, “Aur Kab Tak Mare Jaoge”, “Bhediya” and “Aag”, which very accurately brought out the dual mentality of modern society. The story presented by Tekchand was titled “Gubaar”.
In this, the deep roots of ignorance among some communities of the Dalits were shown in a very simple way. Puran Singh read out his story “Hawa Ka Rukh”, which focused on the irony of a writer having to compromise as a result of various pressures. The programme was conducted by Anupam Tiwari, Editor (Hindi). A large number of writers, journalists and students were present at the programme.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
