The annual Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia Poetry Award, a tribute to the multifaceted luminary Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia, celebrated poet, educator, social reformer, environmentalist, and freedom fighter, continues to illuminate the literary world. Presented by the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival in collaboration with the Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia Foundation, this prestigious award honors poets whose work resonates with the spirit of Sethiaji’s legacy. The 2024 edition of the award has bestowed its honor upon Arundhathi Subramaniam, marking another milestone in the poetic landscape.
The esteemed jury panel, comprising luminaries such as Namita Gokhale, Sanjoy Roy, Jaiprakash Sethia, and Siddharth Sethia, convened to deliberate on this year’s recipient and unanimously selected Arundhathi Subramaniam for her exceptional contributions to the world of poetry.
Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia, renowned for his timeless composition “Dharti Dhora Re,” often hailed as the unofficial anthem of Rajasthan, left an enduring imprint on the literary tapestry of India. His profound insights into the human condition, coupled with a deep-rooted commitment to social change and environmental consciousness, continue to inspire generations. Sethiaji’s influence transcends boundaries, as evidenced by the recognition his work has garnered, including the National Award – the Golden Lotus for the documentary film “Land of Sand Dunes,” directed by Gautam Ghosh.
Arundhathi Subramaniam, a luminary in her own right, stands as a beacon of poetic excellence. Her body of work exemplifies a profound understanding of the human experience, navigating themes of spirituality, identity, and the interconnectedness of existence. Through her eloquent verses, Subramaniam weaves a tapestry of emotions that resonate deeply with readers across cultures and generations.
The award ceremony, a momentous occasion celebrating Subramaniam’s literary prowess, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 3rd January, at 2 pm at the Front Lawn during the 17th Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival. Alongside the jury citation, Subramaniam will be presented with a cheque of INR 100,000, symbolizing not just recognition but also a token of appreciation for her invaluable contributions to the world of poetry.
Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia’s legacy lives on through initiatives like the Mahakavi Kanhaiyalal Sethia Poetry Award, which seeks to nurture and celebrate poetic talent that echoes the ethos of Sethiaji’s vision. His profound impact on Indian literature, coupled with his unwavering commitment to social causes, serves as an enduring inspiration for generations of poets and readers alike.
As the literary world converges at the Jaipur Literature Festival, a celebration of words, ideas, and creativity, Arundhathi Subramaniam’s recognition serves as a testament to the enduring power of poetry to illuminate, inspire, and provoke introspection. Her words, like Sethiaji’s, resonate with a timeless wisdom that transcends the boundaries of language and culture, forging connections that endure through the ages.
For those eager to immerse themselves in the literary extravaganza of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the complete program for the 2024 edition can be found on the festival’s website. Additionally, exclusive ‘Friend of the Festival’ packages, offering a unique and immersive experience with special hospitality, are available for booking through the festival’s website. For further information and updates on the festival, visit the official Jaipur Literature Festival website.
