Lucknow: In a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and womanhood, Lucknow Women’s Association and Jyoti Kalash Cultural Institute jointly organized a grand event marking the release of four books and the felicitation of distinguished women achievers. The ceremony, held at the premises of the Lucknow Women’s Association on Mahatma Gandhi Marg, commenced with a soulful invocation and lamp lighting by Archana Gupta. Asha Srivastava offered floral tributes to Goddess Saraswati while singing “Bharati Maa Tere Aangan Mein Deep Jalati Hoon,” setting a devotional tone for the evening.
In her welcome address, Association President Pratima Vajpayee highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it was the first time such a combined celebration of book launches and honors was being held. Four books were released on the occasion: Aao Seekhein Ka Kha Ga and Amalanjali authored by Kanak Verma, and Bharat Ki Pratham Mahila Vibhutiyan and Beeti Tahi Bisar De penned by Dr. Lakshmi Rastogi. The books were formally launched by an esteemed panel comprising Dr. Purnima Pandey, Dr. Usha Sinha, Shiva Singh, Jyoti Kaul, and Dr. Usha Rai.
To mark World Book Day, four accomplished women were conferred with the “Jyoti Shri 2025” award for their contributions to literature and culture. The honorees included renowned poet Dr. Usha Rai, poetess Alka Pandey, Kathak Guru Dr. Purnima Pandey, and Squadron Leader Toolika. The event media coordinator, Jyoti Kiran Ratan, emphasized that the program was a fitting tribute to World Book Day, as it showcased women authors and honorees, symbolizing the strength and achievements of half the population.
The cultural segment of the evening added further charm to the event. Sneha Rastogi captivated the audience with a graceful dance performance based on the song Madhur Pyaar Ke Aavalanban. She was accompanied by Chandrashe Pandey on synthesizer and Yogesh on tabla, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere of rhythm and melody.
The event was presided over by Dr. Usha Sinha. Several dignitaries and active members from both organizations, including Jyoti Kaul, Sudarsh Bala, Vimal Pant, Neera Mishra, Rita Singh, Ranjita Agarwal, Archana Gupta, Vinita Singh, Rita Srivastava, Indira Srivastava, Shiva Singh, Kamal Gupta, Neelima Mohan, Pramita, Sarita Agarwal, and Rekha Agarwal were present at the occasion.
The event stood as a testament to the cultural richness and literary spirit thriving in Lucknow, particularly driven by the city’s empowered women.
