New Delhi, Dec 7: A vibrant literary event brought together over fifty literature enthusiasts to celebrate Sunset in a Cup, the latest work by acclaimed poet and author Dr. Santosh Bakaya. The event was chaired by Dr. Amarendra Khatua, a distinguished poet, diplomat, and former Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, adding gravitas to the occasion.
Dr. Usha Mujoo Munshi, Chief Librarian of the India International Centre (IIC) Library, introduced Dr. Bakaya, highlighting her impressive body of work and myriad achievements. The discussion that followed featured an erudite panel comprising Dr. Radha Chakravarty, writer, critic, and translator; Dr. Payal Nagpal, Professor of English at Janki Devi Memorial College, University of Delhi; and Ms. Satbir Chadha, poet and novelist.
The panelists delved into various aspects of Sunset in a Cup, offering insights into its themes, poetic devices, and the profound connection between Dr. Bakaya’s poetry and nature. The discussion also touched on the use of literary techniques such as alliteration and personification in her work, leading to a lively and intellectually stimulating question-and-answer session with the audience.
Dr. Bakaya shared her creative journey, revealing that the book’s title, Sunset in a Cup, was inspired by a poem by Emily Dickinson. She captivated the audience by reciting When the Dead Stirred from the Graves, a poignant piece from the book, which was met with widespread appreciation.
Ms. Mandira Ghosh, Treasurer of the IIC, spoke about Dr. Bakaya’s broader literary contributions, emphasizing the varied moods and themes across her works. She particularly highlighted Ballad of Bapu, Dr. Bakaya’s poetic biography of Mahatma Gandhi, urging everyone to read it for its unique perspective and historical depth.
The event successfully celebrated the magic of poetry and literature, leaving attendees inspired and eager to explore more of Dr. Bakaya’s writings.
Ms. Mandira Ghosh [Treasurer, IIC] spoke about Dr. Bakaya’s other books, emphasizing that the reader experiences a different mood in each of her books. She also said that her book, Ballad of Bapu, the poetic biography ofBapu,should be read by all.
Dr Usha Mujoo Munshi ( Chief Librarian, India International Centre )
Ms Mandira Ghosh ( Treasurer, India International Centre
