CHANDIGARH WRITERS MEET. 26 June 2010
Ek sham lekhakon ke naam!
Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi held a “Lekhak Milni” this evening, bringing together all the writers listed in its online Directory. This was an experiment which aimed at a healthy interaction within the writers’ community. The response it evoked was overwhelming. Approximately a hundred writers turned up. Among the senior writers was Prof V Mehndiratta, a former Chairman of the Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi. Also present was Dr Harnam Singh Shan, a Founding member of the Akademi. The presence of these two veterans added a vintage grace and dignity to the occasion.
Madhav Kaushik, secretary of CSA, welcomed all the writers. He explained that the akademi’s role is to reach out to the public through the promotion of literature. Accordingly, the CSA has been engaged in publications, in giving awards of recognition, and in the promotion of literature in the city. The immediate reason for this gathering, he said, was the announcement of the online Writers Directory. Proofs of the Directory were presented to the gathering and they were asked to make corrections and additions, as required, to their details. Manju Jaidka, Chairperson, CSA, requested all the writers to stay tuned to CSA activities through the internet, the blog and Facebook. She briefly outlined the proposed events of the coming year and appealed for the continued support of the people of the city.
Dr Mehndiratta was all praise for the achievements of the CSA; in particular, he appreciated its outreach into a much wider section of the society than before. Dr HS Shan also expressed his pleasure at the Akademi’s contribution towards the promotion of literature and culture. He was satisfied that the work he had begun with Dr KL Zakir many years ago was being carried on creditably by the akademi today.
All the writers present were given an opportunity to say a few words about themselves and their works. Dr DS Gupt, Vice-Chairman, brought the evening to a close with a formal vote of thanks.
