India boasts a rich heritage of knowledge, with its saints leaving behind a legacy of literature that continues to inspire generations. In a bid to uplift society intellectually, Prof. Dr. Vilas Adhav, Director of the Lifelong Learning and Extension Department at Savitribai Phule Pune University, has called for an intensified reading movement. He emphasized the fundamental role that books play in acquiring basic knowledge, urging individuals to take inspiration from great personalities like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, known for his continuous twelve-hour reading sessions.
Fostering a Reading Culture
Prof. Adhav made this call during an event organized by Annasaheb Magar College, which commemorated the birth anniversary of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The event, named “Kavismelan,” was conducted in collaboration with Savitribai Phule Pune University, the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension, the Department of Marathi, and the Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad (Hadapsar Branch). It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Vilas Adhav and Dr. Nitin Ghorpade, Principal of the college and a member of the management council of Savitribai Phule Pune University.
A Melody of Poetry
The event featured the recitation of poems by renowned poets such as Chandrakant Wankhede, Ghazalist Arun Katare, Prof. Hanumant Bhawari, and student poets like Vijay Andhare and Pandurang Pawar, among others. The contributions of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to the field of science, especially in positioning India as a capable nation in areas like nuclear technology, served as an inspiration to the youth. Dr. Nitin Ghorpade stressed the pivotal role of reading in enhancing knowledge and personality.
Poetry as the Soul of Society
Noted poet Chandrakant Wankhede aptly described poems as “the very soul of society,” as various poets captivated the audience with their compositions. The event was attended by Vice Principal Dr. Shubhangi Ooti, Head of the Marathi Department Dr. Praveen Sasane, several other professors, and approximately two hundred students.
Prof. Vandana Sonawale gracefully hosted the event, and Prof. Nitin Lagad proposed the vote of thanks. Prof. Dr. Nana Zagde efficiently coordinated the splendid program.
The day concluded on a joyous note, with attendees carrying the poetic expressions in their hearts.
