Lucknow : The All India Sahitya Parishad, Lucknow South, organized a vibrant literary and poetry symposium on the occasion of Vyas Jayanti and Guru Purnima. The event, held on July 18, 2025, was a heartfelt celebration of the enduring significance of the guru-shishya (teacher-student) tradition, knowledge, and literary expression.
Presiding as Chief Guest, Professor Prem Suman Sharma, former Head of the Hindi Department and former Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Lucknow University, graced the event with her presence. The programme began with a Saraswati Vandana (invocation to the Goddess of knowledge), followed by a warm welcome to Professor Sharma and other dignitaries. Professor Sharma was felicitated with a symbolic memento, ceremonial shawl, and a bouquet as a mark of deep respect.
In her keynote address, Professor Sharma spoke eloquently about the timeless role of the guru, emphasizing that in the age of social media, a teacher’s responsibility has become even more crucial. “Today’s gurus are not only mentors but also navigators in an era overwhelmed by information. Their role in guiding young minds with clarity and purpose is now more essential than ever,” she said.
Speaker Monika highlighted the emotional bond between student and teacher, stating that holistic development is incomplete without a strong emotional connection with one’s guru. This sentiment was beautifully echoed in a poetic presentation by Mahak Gupta, who recited verses glorifying the guru’s selfless role—
“Seva, samarpan, tyag, balidan ka diya gyaan…
Geeta ke parijñan ka, maanav kalyan sabse hai jag mein nirala, jeevan mein hota hai isse ujala.”
Poet Anjali shared her own reflections on the essence of a guru, presenting evocative lines: “Band ho jaaye sab darwaze, raasta dikhate hain guru.”
Dr. Kumud Pandey spoke candidly about the challenges faced by the education system today and urged the younger generation to remain aware of these complexities. Dr. Poonam Singh, General Secretary of the Lucknow South unit, paid tribute to the first guru—mother, and recited emotional verses:
“Maa teri vandana main gaaun, nit sheesh mile aashish tumhara ke meethe bol sunaaun.”
The event was skillfully conducted by Professor Neetu Sharma, who also served as President of the programme. In her concluding remarks, she described gurus as pillars of transformation and enlightenment. “Just as parents rejoice in their children’s achievements, a true teacher feels immense pride in the success of their students,” she said, offering blessings to all present.
The programme also featured notable literary contributions from Dr. Sursari Tarang Mishra, Dr. Dhirendra Kaushal, Jyoti Kiran Ratan, Dr. Jahnavi Awasthi, Dr. Priya Singh, Dr. Madhulika Chaudhary, Sangeeta Pal, Deepshikha Rai, Kusum Lata, and Sneha Singh, all of whom added depth and flavor to the evening through their thought-provoking presentations and poems.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a fitting end to a gathering that celebrated tradition, wisdom, and the transformative power of the guru in shaping lives and literature.
