![Former secretary of JKAACL, Ramesh Mehta and other dignitaries launching poetry book of Sheikh Mohammed Kalyan. Former secretary of JKAACL, Ramesh Mehta and other dignitaries launching poetry book of Sheikh Mohammed Kalyan.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/page7-6-7.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 20: “Pahadh Apni Jagah Chhod Raha Hai”- a collection of poetry by renowned Hindi litterateur Sheikh Mohammed Kalyan was released today in a simple yet impressive function organized here at Press Club.
The function, organized by Sanskriti Manch Jammu (SMJ) in collaboration with the Press Club Jammu, was presided over by veteran litterateur and former Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Cultural and Languages (JKAACL), Ramesh Mehta. Another prominent Dogri litterateur of the State and convenor Dogri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Darshan Darshi was the chief guest.
In his welcome address, SMJ president Abhimnyu Sharma, who is also the vice president of Press Club Jammu, said that the Club is committed to the progressive, socialist values which it promotes through its programmes.
He also announced that SMJ’s popular literary programme “Vasant Key Harkaarey” would be resumed very soon. “In the programme, papers would be presented critically analyzing the poetry of a young poet, who would also recite some of his selected poems. A poster-exhibition based on his or her poems would also be organized,” he said.
President, Press Club Jammu, Ashwani Kumar, in his brief address reiterated his commitment to encourage artists and litterateurs and promote their literary endeavours in every possible manner.
On this occasion, well-known Hindi poets and critics Kamaljeet Chowdhary and Dr Rajni Bala also presented papers appreciating Kalyan’s poetry vis-a-vis contemporary Hindi poetry scenario.
Sheikh Mohammed Kalyan stated that the poetry for him was integral to his persona and the verses would come to him as his principles, his values which he cherished throughout his life. He also recited some of his selected poems from the collection.
Darshan Darshi said that he (Kalyan) was able to move with his honest expression. “His poetry reflects the regional flavour of Jammu in its purest and the best possible form,” he added.
Ramesh Mehta, in his presidential remarks, said, “Kalyan’s poetry ably weaved tension, anxiety and conflicts in the contemporary scenario which are all outcome of fast paced life and prevailing consumerist culture. Dramatic elements make them interesting and poet’s simplicity in expression helps readers to relate themselves to it and also with the marginalized sections.”