JAMMU, MARCH 27: Renowned Hindi writer and artist Rama Pandey’s latest literary offering, “Saptparni”, a captivating collection of stories, has been released here today.
The book, a compilation of seven enthralling tales, was unveiled by Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Education, Shantmanu, here at P S Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar.
The event witnessed a mesmerizing narration by Rama Pandey herself, as she presented her story “Darakht-e-Azad Hind”, leaving the audience enthralled. It was a saga of deep spiritual and emotional ties between an elderly woman and an ancient neem tree. Rama’s vocal storytelling and her masterful twist at the end left the entire crowd simply spell bound especially Shantmanu who insisted that Rama should turn them into audio books.
On the occasion, writer and director Rama Pandey said, “It has always been my resolve to raise those questions in Indian society through films, theatre and books, on which no one talks about.
“Sapt-Parni’ is a collection of 7 short stories in Hindi which explore the complexities of modern society with a blend of sensitivity, mystery and drama. The remaining stories are no less extraordinary, each a testament to Rama Ji’s impeccable style, evocative diction and storytelling finesse. They do not merely narrate; they resonate, linger and stir the soul.
“Sapt Parni” is another fine addition to Rama Ji’s Book shelf which already has her other great literary expressions in the form of Lallan MS, Maha Nagar Vienna, Giraftari, Guhar and Suno Kahani.
A trailblazer in media and arts, Rama Pandey holds the distinction of being Rajasthan’s first female media professional, with an illustrious career spanning Doordarshan, BBC London, film and television. Her latest work, published by Vani Prakashan, has already garnered acclaim with one of its stories, “Truck No. 1220”, set to be adapted into a film.
The ceremony was graced by Vijay Bakaya, Former Chief Secretary, who lauded the book’s narrative depth.
Shantmanu proposed integrating these stories into college curricula through audio-visual presentations.
Secretary J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, Harvinder Kour, also announced plans for a discussion forum on the book among Jammu’s literary circles.
The event was attended by Najmus Saqib, former IAS, Indu Chib, Chairman SSB, Principal Professor S.S. Parihar and Professor Hemla Agarwal, members from Hindi Sahitya Mandal, literature lovers, staff and students of the college.
Dr. Liaqat Jafri, Urdu poet conducted the proceedings while vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Sugandha Sharma, HoD Botney.
