Valley of Words Cafe was abuzz with literary energy as it hosted “Author from the Valley,” an evening dedicated to Hindi poetry and cross-cultural exchange.
This unique session welcomed the eminent Padmashree Leeladhar Jagudi, whose towering legacy in Hindi literature drew poets, students, and book lovers from across the city. As the author of acclaimed collections such as Natak Jari Hai and Shankha Mukhi Shikharon Par, and recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award for his anthology Anubhav Ke Aakash Mein Chand, Jagudi ji’s reputation as a literary giant is well established. His poetic journey, crowned by the Padmashree in 2004, reflects a commitment not just to craft but to nurturing new voices in Hindi literature. In his inimitable style, Jagudi ji dived into the interplay between the poet and poetry, language and script, underlining how creative expression is both a personal and cultural act. He urged young writers to embrace originality rather than imitation, emphasizing the power of simplicity, rootedness, and cultural consciousness in Hindi writing. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly when Jagudi ji recited his own poetry, his words weaving together personal experience and universal emotion, leaving the audience visibly moved.
Adding an international dimension to the conversation, Matt Reeck – Guggenheim Fellow in Translation who is well-known for his translations in both the USA and India – offered insight into the process of translating poetry across languages and cultures. Reeck discussed the challenge of preserving both the literal and emotional essence of Jagudi ji’s poems in English, describing translation as a “dialogue between worlds.” His remarks reminded the gathering of the crucial role translators play in carrying the voice of Indian poets beyond borders, expanding the reach of Hindi literature and inviting a new readership globally. The audience, many of whom were encountering their favourite Hindi verses in English for the first time, appreciated the care and nuance that such literary translation requires.
Anchoring the evening was VoW’s esteemed Dr. Sushil Upadhyay, whose moderation was both scholarly and accessible. As Principal of Chamanlal PG College in Haridwar and former Deputy Director at the Uttarakhand Language Institute, Dr. Upadhyay brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion, seamlessly guiding the session through personal anecdotes, sharp literary analysis, and open dialogue. His deep understanding of both language and media, reflected in his eighteen published books and over fifty research papers, ensured the conversation remained engaging and thought-provoking for all present. Dr. Upadhyay’s ability to connect the dots between the worlds of the poet, the translator, and the reader added a unique dynamism to the evening, with his moderation frequently drawing nods and applause.
The magical evening refused to come to an end as the impression of “Author from the Valley” was palpable. Guests lingered long after the final applause, discussing lines of poetry and exchanging thoughts inspired by the session. The event not only celebrated the enduring richness of Hindi literature but also highlighted the essential bridges built by translation and scholarly engagement. By bringing together the creative brilliance of Leeladhar Jagudi, the interpretative artistry of Matt Reeck, and the insightful moderation of Dr. Sushil Upadhyay, VoW reaffirmed its reputation as a vibrant centre for literary arts not only in Dehradun – but pan-India, one where the magic of the written word, lingers on.
