A stimulating symposium on the literary legacy of Balakrishna Bhatt was held at P.G.D.A.V. College (Evening), jointly organized by the Authors Guild of India and the Delhi Hindi Sahitya Sammelan. The event brought together renowned scholars and literary figures who delved into Bhatt’s significant contributions to Hindi literature, journalism, and socio-cultural reform.
The program began with a welcome address by senior journalist Mr. Dilip Chaube, who praised Bhatt as a foundational figure in Indian journalism. He highlighted how Bhatt’s fearless and principled writings laid the groundwork for modern investigative and bold journalism in India.
Prof. Harish Arora, the keynote speaker and a prominent academic from the Hindi Department at Delhi University, reflected on Bhatt’s deep literary insight, historical awareness, and social responsibility. He credited Bhatt as a pioneer in shaping Hindi prose and poetry, blending logic with emotion in a way that laid the ideological foundation for the Bharatendu era.
Dr. Vijay Shankar Mishra drew parallels between Bhatt and Western intellectuals, dubbing him the “Edison of Hindi” for his originality and innovation. Dr. Radheshyam Mishra highlighted the poetic depth in Bhatt’s prose, offering vivid examples that showcased Bhatt’s mastery over language and style.
Dr. Harisingh Pal, Secretary General of the Nagari Lipi Parishad, recognized Bhatt as a fearless voice who championed clarity and conviction in writing — qualities that continue to shape contemporary Hindi journalism.
In her special remarks, Dr. Asha Joshi focused on Bhatt’s commitment to social issues such as child marriage and overpopulation. She likened his clarity of thought to that of Kabir, noting the sharpness and simplicity in his essays. Young writer Ms. Neha Kaushik explored Bhatt’s contributions to cultural identity through translation, stating that his translated works went beyond language, serving as cultural reinterpretations.
Chief Guest Dr. Veena Gautam emphasized how Bhatt’s thoughts still resonate today, especially in the context of social evils and rising Western influence during his time. She argued that his ideas remain strikingly relevant to modern society.
Presiding over the session, Prof. Mukesh Agrawal described Bhatt’s literary vision as an embodiment of collective national consciousness. Quoting from Bhatt’s famous work Venusanhar, he remarked: “Khila gul Hind mein awargi ka” (A flower of vagabondage bloomed in India), symbolizing Bhatt’s bold literary spirit.
The event was ably coordinated by Dr. Shiv Shankar Awasthi, who acknowledged that while Bhatt’s work might not always reach artistic perfection, its ideological clarity and social relevance firmly establish him as a guiding light in Hindi literature. He declared Bhatt an essential figure in the evolution of modern Hindi essays and criticism.
The symposium saw active participation from a wide range of writers, linguists, and academicians from Delhi and neighboring areas. The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Mr. Satyapal Chawla, bringing to a close a memorable celebration of one of Hindi literature’s most influential minds.
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