Aditya Raj Das /NEW DELHI
A national conclave of leading poets chaired by the former Lok Sabha Speaker Mrs Meira Kumar on Wednesday paid rich tributes to thelate Babu Jagjivan Ram on his birth anniversary focusing on issues of tolerance for dissent, social justice, equity, universal brotherhood and communal harmony, which were dear to the heart of the departed leader.
In a unique gesture to the memory of the late Jagjivan Ram—fondly addressed by the people as Babuji—eminent poets from across the country paid homage by rendering their heart-felt compositions touching on his work and philosophy at the “Rashtriya Kavi Sammelan” organized by the Manvata Abhijan—a socio cultural organization.
The three-hour long conclave of poets kept the audience mesmerized as noted poets enthralled the poetry lovers with their beautiful compositions highlighting the ideals of the Babuji.
The other poets who drew rich applaud include Ashok Chakradhar, Sunil Yogi, Dinesh Babra, Munwar Rana, Anamika Jain Ambar, Arun Sagar and Surendra Dubey.
Speaking on the occasion the Lok Sabha Speaker Mrs Meira Kumar—daughter of Babuji—made a clarion call for sustained efforts to bring about a renaissance in the overall thinking process of the society to strive for equality and respect for one and all, universal brotherhood and communal harmony.
The audience had a pleasant surprise as she rendered her own composition, which she wrote down on the spot, touching on issues of universal brotherhood, tolerance for diversified views, communal harmony and social justice.
Speaking on the occasion the President of the Manvata Abhiyan, Mr M K Gandhi recited his compositions on the memory of the Babuji and made a powerful appeal to make an earnest and sincere effort to build up a compassionate society that respects tolerance for listening to diversified views, humanity, communal harmony, universal brotherhood and a life of dignity for one and all.
Expressing concern over growing phenomenon of intolerance, Gandhi said for the development of a pluralistic society, which is the hallmark of Indian culture and civilisation, it is essential that there should be room for tolerance for diversified views and philosophies.
“If we do not tolerate dissent and difference of views, there cannot be healthy development of society as well as building up of the environment for communal harmony,” he said,