‘Enriched Jammu’s literary, cultural scene as a trendsetter’
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Renowned litterateur and cultural-activist Manoj Sharma with his path-breaking approach gave a new momentum to the growth of Hindi literature in Jammu.
He not only created young literary comrades but also helped them creating a niche for themselves on the literary firmament. With a clear vision, he mentored them to be an integral part of contemporary Hindi poetry.
This was stated by the participants in a function organised by Sanskriti Manch Jammu (SMJ) to accord farewell to its founder member, celebrated poet and columnist Manoj Sharma on his superannuation.
In an impressive function organised at the Press Club Jammu, Manoj was also felicitated with a special souvenir, denoting the unadulterated warmth of literary, cultural and artist fraternity of Jammu. Veteran litterateur and former president Hindi Sahitya Mandal Jammu Prof Kiran Bakshi, well known director-producer and general secretary Punjabi Lekhak Sabha Jammu Dr Baljeet Singh Raina shared the presidium on this occasion. Renu Sharma, the wife of Manoj Sharma also graced the occasion. Overwhelmed by the affection showered upon him, Manoj extended gratitude to all.
While sharing memorable parts of his literary journey, he specifically recalled his enriching association with the grand old-man of Dogri Padmashri Prof Ram Nath Shastri, veteran scribes Balraj Puri, Ved Bhasin, Dogri poet Ved Pal Deep, Bal Krishan Sagar, former JKAACL secretary Ramesh Mehta, founder SMJ and Punjabi litterateur Mahinder Singh Ranjoor.
“Even in their absence, the memories live on. Given these rich memories here, I always considered Jammu as my second home,” Manoj struck an emotional chord.
He aptly summed up his address at a touching note by reciting his new poetic creation “Vidai Samaroh” (farewell function).
Earlier at the outset, SMJ Secretary General Sheikh Mohammed Kalyan gave an overview of significant contribution of Manoj to promote literary movement in the region and his enviable achievements on this account.
He also brought to the fore some rare traits of Manoj’s affable persona.
SMJ president Abhimanyu Sharma, while delivering welcome address, added an emotional quotient as he recalled Manoj’s creative journey during his stay, spanning around three decades, in Jammu. He shared some of his memories which underlined his (Manoj’s) refined traits.
“Manoj touched new milestones and charted path, difficult for others to follow or emulate. As a trend-setter in the field of journalism and cultural or literary spectre, his role can never be forgotten,” Abhimanyu said.
Well known cartoonist of J&K Shekhar Bunty, on this occasion, gifted Manoj and Abhimanyu their wonderful caricatures.
Prominent theatre artiste and litterateur Rajkumar Bahurupia presented a paper highlighting the varied facets of Manoj’s multi-dimensional personality. He noted that that SMJ founder member never compromised with his ideology and facing all odds, the kind of literature he created would remain exemplary for the new breed of litterateurs.
“His critical reviews are still recommended for references,” Bahurupia mentioned.
Former president Hindi Sahitya Mandal Dr Chanchal Dogra, litterateur Amita Mehta besides other prominent personalities of literary, cultural arena of Jammu region too cherished moments spent with Manoj.
Another highlight of the function was a photo-exhibition based on the new poetic creations of Manoj Sharma. The proceedings of the function were ably conducted by the well-known presenter and cultural activist Alka Sharma.