Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 21: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages today released the autobiography “Deh Dhaaran Ka Dand” penned by renowned academic and literary stalwart Prof Raj Kumar.
Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL, formally released the book in the esteemed presence of Padma Shri Prof Lalit Magotra, Dr Arvinder Singh Amn, former Additional Secretary, JKAACL, Swaran Kanta, wife of the author, and Dr Chanchal Sharma, Editor Hindi, JKAACL.
Delivering the welcome address, Harvinder Kour praised Prof Raj Kumar’s immense contribution to Hindi literature and academia. She described the autobiography as a profound reflection of a life lived with intellectual intensity, spiritual resilience, and an unwavering commitment to truth and scholarship.
Prof Lalit Magotra, in his speech, offered a heartfelt reflection on the challenges of autobiographical writing. “Autobiography is not merely a recounting of events, but a courageous act of introspection-an attempt to peel off the layers of one’s existence with honesty, without adornment or evasion. Prof Raj Kumar has accomplished this with grace and clarity,” he said.
Dr Arvinder Singh Amn presented an insightful introduction to the book, highlighting its thematic depth and literary elegance. He shared that “Deh Dhaaran Ka Dand” (The Penalty of Embodiment) chronicles not only Prof Raj Kumar’s personal and professional journey, but also presents a contemplative exploration of life’s trials, relationships, detachment, and the quiet strength drawn from self-awareness.
Rajeshwar Singh Raju presented an elaborate paper on the book.
Having retired from the Department of Hindi at the University of Jammu, Prof Raj Kumar continues to lead a serene and introspective life. His autobiography reveals his philosophical insight into the inevitability of criticism in the presence of true merit, and his acceptance of life’s hardships with the clarity and grace of a sage.
Among his acclaimed works are short story collections like Khule Haath, Jaal, Waiting Room, and Antim Nirnaya, and poetry anthologies such as Is Bhoo-Mandal Par, Ikkisvin Shatabdi ke Naam, and Khoon ka Rang To Hai.
Dr Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, Jammu (JKAACL), delivered the vote of thanks. Proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr Chanchal Sharma, Editor Hindi, JKAACL.
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