Published on: 26 Apr 2015 @ 0:34
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday conferred the prestigious Jnanpith award on eminent Marathi litterateur Bhalchandra Nemade. Mr Nemade is the 50th recipient of the award. Speaking on the occasion Mr Modi said, creative writing has the capacity to touch lives of several generations. He emphasized that literature is extremely important in the current age of technology.
The Prime Minister reiterated that solutions to the problems of global warming and climate change, which the world is debating today, can be found in the Vedas. Praising the writing of Mr Nemade, the Prime Minister compared his views with those of Shri Aurobindo. He said the works of Mr Nemade will inspire several generations.
Modi also regretted the declining interest in habit of book reading. He said people must ensure a special place for books in their homes. The Prime Minister emphasized the combination of wisdom and prosperity are the key to India’s progress.
Paying tributes to the victims of earthquake Mr Modi said, today’s earthquake has made all very sad and reports are still coming on the extent of the damage. The Prime Minister said, he had spoken to the Prime Minister and the President of Nepal and have assured them that the entire nation is with them in this hour of need. He said, Nepal’s pain is India’s pain.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Nemade said, he will always abide by his commitment to write what is right. He said, writing is what binds him to his readers and to humanity.
The award carries a statue of Goddess Saraswati, a Shawl, a citation and a cash award of 11 lakh rupees.