National Seminar on 'Role of Hindi, Marathi, Sanskrit, Gujrati Literature in Indian Freedom Movement'
Organised By
SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai & The Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan, Lucknow, and the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan
Venue: Hindustani Prachar Sabha, Charni Road, Mumbai
20th - 21st January, 2023
Introduction:
The two-day National Conference on the Contribution of Indian Literature to the Indian Independence Movement was organized jointly by SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai, the Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan, Lucknow, and the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan, with the aim of exploring the pivotal role played by Hindi, Marathi, Sanskrit, and Gujarati literature in India’s struggle for independence. The conference, held on January 20-21, 2023, brought together scholars, researchers, and literary enthusiasts to delve into the rich heritage of Indian literature and its profound impact on the freedom struggle.
Day 1 Highlights:
The inaugural session, chaired by Prof. K.K. Pandey, Vice-Chancellor of Nagpur University, commenced at 10:30 AM. Notable speakers included Prof. Ujwala Chakradeo, Vice-Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University, and Mr. R.P. Dwivedi, Director of the Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan, Lucknow. The session focused on highlighting the significance of Indian literature as a catalyst for social and political change during the independence movement.
Keynote Address:
Mr. Manoj Kumar Shrivastav, Additional Director of the Madhya Pradesh Government and eminent literary critic, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between literature and freedom struggle. He elucidated how poets, writers, and intellectuals used their literary prowess to inspire the masses and ignite the spirit of nationalism.
Panel Discussions:
The conference featured three panel discussions on the first day, covering various aspects of Indian literature's contribution to the freedom struggle. Panelists included Dr. Adwaita Tripathi, Principal of Allahabad University, Dr. Ashwini Dubey, renowned literary figure from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and Dr. Aditya Dubey, Principal of Gorakhpur University. Discussions ranged from analyzing the themes of patriotism and rebellion in literary works to exploring the role of regional languages in shaping the discourse of freedom.
Day 2 Highlights:
The second day of the conference commenced with an insightful session chaired by Prof. K.K. Pandey, focusing on the significance of poetry in the Indian independence movement. Eminent poet Dr. Bharatendu Mishra, celebrated author and educator from New Delhi, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the power of poetic expression in galvanizing the masses towards the cause of freedom.
Panel Discussions:
Three panel discussions were held on the second day, exploring the role of various literary genres such as novels, plays, and essays in fostering nationalist sentiments. Panelists included Dr. Mohan Hatimari, literary scholar from Prayagraj, Dr. Manmohan Upadhyay, literary critic from Uttar Pradesh, and Dr. Anandita Srivastava, renowned novelist from Mumbai. Discussions revolved around the thematic evolution of Indian literature amidst the socio-political upheaval of the independence era.
The National Conference on the Contribution of Indian Literature to the Indian Independence Movement provided a platform for scholars and enthusiasts to delve into the profound legacy of Indian literature and its enduring impact on the nation's journey towards freedom. As we reflect on the insights gained from the conference, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of Indian literary heritage for generations to come.