Kala Ramesh: Championing the Haikai Tradition in India and Beyond
Kala Ramesh stands as a beacon of creativity and cultural exchange in the literary world, particularly in the realm of haikai poetry. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Kala has left an indelible mark on the global haikai community as a poet, editor, educator, and mentor.
A Visionary Leader in Haikai Literature
As the founder and director of Triveni Haikai India and haikuKATHA Journal, Kala Ramesh has created platforms that celebrate and elevate haikai poetry, nurturing a vibrant community of poets and enthusiasts. Her innovative Triveni Gurukulam Mentorship Program 2021 serves as a cornerstone for mentoring aspiring poets, reflecting her dedication to fostering creativity and craftsmanship in the haikai tradition.
A Legacy of Literary Excellence
Kala’s contributions to literature are as varied as they are impactful. She is the editor-in-chief of the award-winning anthology Naad Anunaad: An Anthology of Contemporary World Haiku (Vishwakarma, 2016) and the author of Haiku!, an illustrated children’s book that won accolades for introducing young readers to the beauty of haiku poetry. Reprinted in 2017, this work remains a cherished resource for children and educators alike.
Her book Beyond the Horizon Beyond (Vishwakarma) was shortlisted for the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize (2019), while her collection The Forest I Know (HarperCollins, 2021) has been celebrated for its depth and lyrical quality. Additionally, Kala co-edited Amber I Pause (Hawakal, 2023), further cementing her role as a pivotal figure in contemporary poetry.
Pioneering Haiku Education in India
Kala Ramesh’s contributions go beyond the written word. As an external faculty member of Symbiosis International University Pune, she designed and taught a groundbreaking 60-hour haikai course for undergraduates from 2012 to 2021—the first of its kind in India. This initiative introduced countless young minds to the art of haiku, tanka, and haibun, blending tradition with modern pedagogy.
Advancing Haiku Through Public Engagement
Kala’s commitment to bringing haiku into everyday spaces is evident in her extensive workshops and conferences. Over the past 19 years, she has conducted numerous workshops across India, inspiring poets and enthusiasts alike. A notable highlight was her session at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival on February 6, 2023, where her workshop drew such an overwhelming response that organizers had to display a “Haiku Housefull” board outside the venue.
A Global Voice for Haiku
Recognized internationally, Kala was invited by the Haiku Poets of Northern California on March 19, 2023, to discuss the state of haiku in India. Her insights during this event highlighted the evolution of haikai poetry in the country and its growing global resonance.
An Ongoing Journey of Inspiration
Kala Ramesh’s efforts to promote haikai poetry have transcended cultural and geographical boundaries. Through her visionary leadership, literary contributions, and commitment to education, she continues to enrich the world of poetry. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and dedication in shaping the literary landscape.