Poetry: Legacy of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar Ji

Hindi Shiksha Parishad UK and Katha UK, with The Nehru Centre, present a special Hindi Pakhwada celebration dedicated to the life, works, and legacy of National Poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar Ji — one of India’s most celebrated literary figures. This cultural evening will showcase the beauty of Hindi literature and Indian heritage through the recitation and discussion of Dinkar Ji’s powerful and timeless works.

First Section

The evening will begin with a heartfelt recitation of Dinkar Ji’s inspiring poetry by the talented students of Hindi Shiksha Parishad UK.

Second Section

This will be followed by a panel discussion where renowned Hindi scholars will share their insights into the greatness of Rashtrakavi Dinkar Ji and the influence of his poetry on various generations. The distinguished panel includes:

• Dr. Aruna Ajitsaria MBE – Hindi Scholar, Cambridge University
• Mr. Shivkant Sharma – Former BBC Hindi Radio Editor and Sanskrit Scholar
• Shri Vijay Rana – Former Senior Editor, BBC World Service Radio, documentary maker and historical researcher

The session will be conducted by Mr. Tejinder Sharma MBE, Senior Literary Figure of UK, Editor of Purvai Hindi Magazine, and General Secretary of Katha UK.

Special Presentations and Discussions

Dr. Manohar Thakur will present and share his thoughts on Dinkar Ji. Dr. Thakur has been serving as a skilled General Practitioner in the UK for the past twenty years. Educated at Netarhat Vidyalaya and Patna Medical College, he has nurtured a deep interest in poetry since his school days. His father, the late Professor Damodar Thakur, shared a close relationship with Dinkar Ji dating back to the early 1950s when both taught at L.S. College, Muzaffarpur. Dr. Thakur’s personal proximity to Dinkar Ji’s world adds a unique perspective to the evening.

Dr. Rakesh Ravi, Consultant Paediatrician in London, will recite selected poems of Rashtrakavi Dinkar. A graduate of Goa Medical College with roots in Bihar and Jharkhand, Dr. Ravi has been deeply inspired by Dinkar Ji’s works since his school years at Netarhat Vidyalaya. Even today, he draws energy and motivation from Dinkar’s poetry.

Vote of Thanks

The event will conclude with a vote of thanks by Ms. Udayati Dinkar, the great-granddaughter of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar Ji.