Maverick writer’s 29th book ‘Yatra Chakra’ released

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, JAN 17: Acknowledging that Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Dogri Sanstha, have been inspiring generations of budding writers, Prof Shiv Nirmohi, well known writer, said that had it not been for the timely encouragement of the above two institutions, he would have never thought of becoming a writer.
Prof Shiv Nirmohi, the maverick writer of Duggar, who has done seminal work in recording the socio-historic and ethnographical aspects of Duggar, was speaking at the release function of his 29th book, organized by J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, at the K L Saigal Hall, here today.
He said as part of life-long mission to document the salient features of history and culture of Dogra communities and tribes, he has been moving from place to place and recording information only to publish the same in form of books.
Tilted as ‘Yatra Chakra’, the book in Dogri is a travelogue comprising of accounts of journeys undertaken to 30 destinations by Prof Shiv Nirmohi in different parts of the country in past few decades. It is second of three-part autobiographical trilogy by the author. The first was ‘Jeevan Chakra’ and third in the offing is ‘Ghatna Chakra’.
Prof Lalit Magotra, President Dogri Sanstha, and the chief guest of the function, in his address while praising the yeoman efforts of Prof Nirmohi in documenting salient as well as unique aspects of Dogra culture and history, said that his books will have a reference value for future researchers.
Earlier in her welcome address, Academy’s additional secretary, Jammu, Savita Bakshi said that the Academy had a series of important functions lined up for the Jammu which include two major events namely All India Urdu Mushaira and 2-Day Dogri conference to be held on 28th of January and 5th of February respectively.
A paper written by Dr Rattan Basotra on the book was also presented on the occasion by Academy’s Editor Dogri language, Ashok Gupta. Dr Neeru Sharma, Chief Editor, Dictionary, gave vote of thanks. The event was conducted by Ms Rita Rani, research assistant, Dogri Dictionary.