Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Launches 'Kaho Kalidas!', Discusses Female Characters in Poet's Works
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched the book 'Kaho Kalidas!', written by Yugal Joshi, in New Delhi. During the event, he remarked that female characters in Kalidas's works are not merely symbols of beauty but embodiments of dignity and consciousness. The event was attended by several dignitaries from the fields of literature and art.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched the book 'Kaho Kalidas!' at an event held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi. Authored by Yugal Joshi and published by Manjul Publishing House, the book explores various facets of the life and literary contributions of the legendary Sanskrit poet Kalidas.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Minister Shekhawat stated that the women depicted in Kalidas's works are not merely subjects of beauty. He emphasized that the poet portrayed them as symbols of love, dignity, and consciousness. The book serves as an effort to bring to light the lesser-known aspects of the poet's personal life, for which historical records are limited.
The minister remarked that imagination is an essential part of human life and that literature provides an opportunity to understand dimensions of history that go beyond mere facts. He praised author Yugal Joshi, noting that the book offers the current generation a chance to establish a new dialogue with the works of Kalidas.
Author Yugal Joshi referenced the famous writer Goethe, stating that Kalidas's work 'Shakuntalam' offers a remarkable confluence of heaven and earth. He emphasized that Kalidas does not belong to any single region but is a treasure for the entire nation.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries from the fields of literature, art, and education. Speakers agreed that the works of Kalidas remain as relevant today as they were in his time. The book provides a fresh perspective on his life and creative sensibilities.
Discussions during the event also touched upon various themes in Kalidas's work, such as nature, separation, and human emotions. Minister Shekhawat expressed hope that the book would be widely read and would help readers gain a deeper understanding of the poet's profound sensibilities.