Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 29: A Dogri short stories collection ‘Bilkadi Dharat, Gunga Gaas’ by Neeru Sharma, was released at a function at KL Saigal Hall here today. Published by Nidhi Publications, the released book incorporates 12 short stories on various social issues.
This is the first book of the writer who has served as Chief Editor in J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and widely honoured by various organizations for her literary contribution. Neeru Sharma is also the President of Rashtra Bhasha Prachar Samiti, Jammu
In his welcome address, Chhatrapal, president of Dogri Sanstha said that Sanstha has been encouraging creative writers by providing them its platform. Every new book in Dogri stands for a firm stride towards the enrichment of literature and promotes peace and harmony in the society, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Pawan Gupta, Minister of State for Finance and IT, said that literature reflects our culture, traditions and invaluable heritage besides enriching our lives. He said the intellectuals are cream of society and have special responsibility to promote human values. Congratulating the writer on the publication of her first collection of short stories in her mother tongue, he made a fervent appeal to all the Dogras to give Dogri due respect in their life and popularize it by making its maximum usage in day to day life.
In his presidential address, Dr Lalit Magotra, noted writer, intellectual and convener, Sahitya Akademi’s Advisory Board for Dogri, said modern Dogri literature has rich tradition of short story and stalwarts like Madan Mohan, Narindra Khajuria, Ved Rahi, Bandhu Sharma,OP Sharma, Dr Manoj , Chhatrapal and Om Goswami, have written memorable short stories. Dogri Sanstha has credit of publishing many short story collections .
Dr Arvinder Singh Amn, Additional Secretary, J&K Cultural Academy, in his address praised the writer for keen observation and social consciousness marked in her writing .
Neeru Sharma presented her story ‘Bebu Ji’ from her book which was liked by the audience. The literary function was conducted by well known Dogri/Hindi poet and general secretary Dogri Sanstha, Dr Nirmal Vinod.
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