Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 16: Poet Anila Rakhecha’s debut Hindi poetry collection Kajal Ki Med was formally released at a function on Saturday at the Nandan 3 auditorium. The book launch was organized by Neelamber, a Kolkata-based literary and cultural organization. The book has been published by Vaani Prakashan.
Mr Mrityunjay Kumar Singh, patron of Neelambar, spoke about the sensitivity and thoughtfulness of Rakhecha’s poems in his welcome address. The evening brought together writers, critics and performers in a celebration of poetry, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Rakhecha’s literary journey.
Presiding over the programme, Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poet Arun Kamal described the first book as a turning point in any poet’s life. He said, “Rakhecha’s poems bring together experiences of love, family and society while also engaging with contemporary challenges. The collection introduces a distinctive new poetic voice.”
Speaking about her journey, Anila Rakhecha said the book represents both dreams and memories shaped over years of writing. For her, Kajal Ki Med is not just a title but an attempt to preserve humanity through poetry. She also read from the collection.
Poet and author Yatish Kumar noted the use of vivid imagery drawn from nature and everyday life, while young critic Vinay Mishra highlighted the resilience and determination reflected in depictions of women’s lives.
Poet and critic Priyankar Paliwal said the work preserves fine emotional details at a time of shifting perspectives in literature. Critic Arun Hota pointed to the many shades of love and hope present in the poems.
Actress Kalpana Jha performed selected poems from the book. The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Anand Gupta, Secretary of Neelamber, who described the poems as an evocative exploration of love, relationships and human values. The programme was conducted by radio and television presenter Chayanika Datta Gupta.
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