Lucknow: The Young Word Session unfolded as an emotionally charged and deeply inspiring literary evening, bringing together celebrated poets Anamika Joshi and Aanchal Dhaara, with the session elegantly moderated by Dr. Radhika Sharma. The discussion focused on poets whose verses have gone viral on social media, exploring the reasons behind their widespread appeal and the profound emotional connection they share with audiences.
Anamika Joshi reflected on her much-loved and powerful poem “Maa, Tum Bhi Ghalat Ho Sakti Ho”, a defining milestone in her poetic journey. She revealed that the poem was written just a day before one of her performances, sparked by a simple yet evocative moment when she saw her mother walking. As she began to describe her mother with honesty and vulnerability, she later realised that the emotions she expressed mirrored the experiences of countless others. Many listeners saw their own mothers and stories reflected in the poem, turning it into a collective voice of shared emotion.
Anamika also spoke candidly about a difficult phase in her life, recalling a decade-long entrepreneurial journey marred by severe financial distress and a debt of nearly ₹50 lakh. This period of struggle became the emotional backbone of her poem “Tangi”, which moved the audience with its raw truth, resilience, and quiet strength.
Poet Aanchal Dhaara mesmerised the audience with her evocative poem “Jab Maa 25 Ki Thi”, which received overwhelming appreciation. She shared that poetry often feels as if it flows through her naturally, as though guided by an unseen force. Reflecting on her personal journey, Aanchal spoke about watching black-and-white films in her younger years and yearning for a mentor figure like the iconic characters portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan. Although she never found such guidance externally, she eventually discovered her own inner compass and strength. This journey of self-realisation is deeply woven into her poetry, making her work profoundly relatable and emotionally resonant.
Throughout the session, both poets recited several of their viral poems, each striking a deep chord with the audience through themes of motherhood, struggle, self-discovery, and resilience. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, empathy, and shared understanding.
The session was thoughtfully and sensitively moderated by Dr. Radhika Sharma, whose perceptive questions and gentle facilitation allowed the poets’ stories and emotions to unfold with grace and depth.
The Young Word Session ultimately stood as a powerful reminder of poetry’s enduring strength in the digital age—where authenticity, lived experience, and emotional honesty transform words into movements that resonate with and inspire millions.
