Sahitya Sabha
An exceptional literary programme, Sahitya Sabha, took place on the evening of Saturday, 08 June 2024. It was a collaboration between the prominent Bengali literary magazine, 'Bombay Duck' and the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) of University of Mumbai, and Centre for Advanced Studies in Culture, Happiness and Ethics (CACHE). Despite our country's rich diversity, it is rare to witness such a transcultural and translingual literary event.
Distinguished guests included Dr. Kishan Pawar (Principal – KJ Somaiya College of Arts and Commerce as well as poet, author scriptwriter) as Chief Guest, Prof. Dr. Savita Pawar (Professor of English, Sydenham College) as Guest of Honour, Dr. Santosh Rathod (Professor of English, CDOE, University of Mumbai and poet and playwright), Fr. Magi Murzello (Rector, St. Andrew’s College of Arts, Science and Commerce and Founder, CACHE), Prof. Dr. Preeti Oza (Associate Professor, St. Andrew’s College), eminent watercolour painter Samir Mondal, and Chief Editor of 'Bombay Duck', Mr. Arghya Dutta.
The first half featured original poetry recitals in Hindi, English, Bengali, Marathi, and Banjara by both established and emerging poets. The segment was very efficiently hosted by Ms. Suzie D' Silva. The second half began with two uplifting Tagore songs performed by the 'Mumbai Orchid Choir' group. The main event was the official release of the 2024 edition of 'Bombay Duck' magazine. Dr. Santosh Rathod's collection of Marathi poems, Bin Budacha Itihaas, (Baseless History) was also released on this occasion. This was followed by the presentation of 'Prabir Roychowdhury Memorial Award' to renowned poet Ms. Mohor Bhattacharya from Pune. The audience eagerly awaited the honouring of eminent writer and poet Sri Saikat Mukhopadhyay from Kolkata, who received the 'Sanghamitra Literary Prize' for 2024. Afterward, Sri Mukhopadhyay engaged in a captivating discussion on various aspects of literature with the audience and the session was conducted by Mr. Siddharth Mukhopadhyay, joint editor of ‘Bombay Duck’. Throughout the event, various artistes enriched the programme with their beautiful poetry recitals. The second half was excellently hosted by Ms. Urmi Roy. Such wonderful literary events that transcend provincial and linguistic barriers should be more common in Mumbai.
- Supriyo Lahiri
