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Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar

A Melodic Journey into the Divine: A Review of “The Song Divine” by Dr Srilakshmi Adhyapak

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The Bhagavad Gita, a timeless and revered scripture of ancient Indian wisdom, stands as an extraordinary synthesis of spiritual discourse and profound poetry. Composed in the form of a sacred dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, it encapsulates the essence of life’s dilemmas and the eternal quest for truth and liberation.

The poetry in the Bhagavad Gita possesses a captivating beauty that transcends the boundaries of time and language, drawing readers into the ethereal realm of divine expression. Each verse weaves together eloquent words, rich metaphors, and evocative imagery, inviting us on a philosophical odyssey through the complexities of duty, righteousness, and the paths to self-realization. Its poetic brilliance is not only a testament to the wisdom of the ancient sages but also an eternal source of inspiration for seekers on the path of spiritual awakening and inner transformation.

The earliest attempt at translation of the Bhagavad Gita dates back to the late 18th century when Sir Charles Wilkins translated the Gita into English prose. However, it was the poetic translations of the 19th and 20th centuries that truly captured the imagination of readers worldwide. Renowned scholars, poets and seers like Swami Vivekananda, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, and Swami Sivananda offered their poetic renditions, bringing the profound wisdom of the Gita to a global audience. Dr Srilakshmi Adhyapak’s book shedding light into the greatest of the spiritual wisdom of the East serves as the most contemporary work on the same.

“The Song Divine,” a collection of captivating verses by Dr. Srilakshmi Adhyapak, transports readers to an ethereal realm where poetic expression dances with emotions and intertwines with profound insights. Dr. Adhyapak, a distinguished medical doctor and esteemed professor, infuses her poetry with a unique perspective derived from her experiences in both the scientific and spiritual domains, creating a tapestry of emotions, wisdom, and spiritual truths.

From the very beginning, the invocation sets the stage for a spiritual journey, inviting readers to bow before the all-pervading Lord supreme. The cosmic consciousness, symbolized by a majestic serpent coiled upon a divine seat, awakens and fills the world with serpentine blessings, silencing evil and enveloping the virtuous with celestial bliss. With this poetic symphony, the stage is set for the protagonist, a prince burdened by duty and facing an impending battle.

Through the prince’s inner turmoil and search for guidance, we witness the divine intervention that occurs at a critical juncture. The Lord, in His divine presence, offers solace and imparts wisdom, reminding the prince of his valiant glory and urging him to embrace steadfastness in duty. The chapters that follow delve deeper into the Lord’s teachings, exploring themes of devotion, action, discipline, and the interplay between knowledge and action on the path to salvation.

Dr. Adhyapak’s words resound with spiritual wisdom throughout each chapter, weaving a tapestry of profound insights and timeless truths. The transformation of the prince unfolds before our eyes, reflecting the struggles, dilemmas, and eternal quest for meaning and liberation that define the human condition. Each poem within “The Song Divine” is like a precious gem, shining with its unique brilliance and revealing a facet of the divine truth.

The beauty of Dr. Adhyapak’s words carries readers away, immersing them in the melodic rhythm of her verses. Her keen insight, profound knowledge, and unwavering devotion guide readers on a spiritual pilgrimage, igniting contemplation and illuminating their path with timeless wisdom. “The Song Divine” serves as an invitation to embark on a transformative odyssey toward the eternal truth.

Being in an organisation that brings hundreds of writers and others in the field of creative expression, I personally meet a number of people on a daily basis. However, rarely do we find a poet like Dr. Srilakshmi Adhyapak who is an exceptional individual who has established herself as both a prominent medical doctor and a profound spiritual being.

As the head of the Department of Cardiology at St. John’s Medical College, she has displayed exemplary expertise and dedication to the field of medicine. Beyond her medical achievements, Dr. Adhyapak’s spiritual journey has found expression in her book, “The Song Divine,” where her poetic verses beautifully weave together profound insights and wisdom.

“The Song Divine” is a mesmerizing collection of poetry that combines the scientific and spiritual realms, offering readers a captivating journey into the depths of human existence and our connection with the divine. Dr. Srilakshmi Adhyapak’s eloquent verses resonate with spiritual wisdom, reflecting the struggles and yearnings of the human spirit. Embrace this divine song, allow it to ignite contemplation within you, and let its timeless wisdom guide you towards self-realization and liberation.

Buy the book here: https://amzn.eu/d/cbVcnGV

Preeth Nambiar

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Preeth Nambiar, an Indian poet, journalist, and educationist, is a visionary leader in spreading humanitarian values through creative expression. The former department head of Cambridge University International General Certificate of Secondary Education ESL in the Maldives, he returned to India with a mission to imbibe values through the medium of literature. As the founder of the Writers Capital International Foundation, he has created a global platform for unity and understanding. His eloquent poetry reflects a blend of narration and mysticism, while his short stories captivate with their poetic essence. Advocating holistic education, he considers instilling universal values in the new generation must be a major aim of education. Through his organization, he organizes influential festivals and promotes minimalism and compassion. 

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Imagined Realities: A Poetic Pilgrimage through ‘Dakshina Kashi’

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Indian women poets have long been a powerful force in the realm of literature, using their words to express their unique perspectives, challenge societal norms, and unveil the depths of their emotions. Their poetry reflects a diverse range of experiences, capturing the essence of womanhood, love, identity, and social issues. Among these talented voices, Meera Vineeth emerges as a promising addition. With her collection “Dakshina Kashi,” Meera showcases her lyrical prowess and introspective depth, adding a fresh and captivating voice to the rich tapestry of Indian women poets.

In her masterful collection of poetry, “Dakshina Kashi,” Meera Vineeth Kodakadath weaves a tapestry of emotions, reflections, and vivid imagery, taking readers on a transformative journey through life’s complexities. With fifty thought-provoking poems, Meera explores the depths of human experience, offering a parable of her own personal odyssey and inviting readers to join her in this introspective exploration.

Through her verses, Meera captures the essence of poetry as a song of the heart, pulsating with emotions of pleasure, grief, and passion. She delicately dances between the fluid realities of life and the realms of the imagination, creating a mesmerizing blend of the tangible and the ethereal. Her words carry an air of contemplation and introspection, urging readers to delve deeper into their own thoughts and feelings.

Meera’s poetry is characterized by its profound ability to reflect varied emotions, vividly and artfully expressed. With each poem, she offers glimpses into her innermost thoughts and experiences, transporting readers into a world of wonder and self-discovery. Sometimes abstract and enigmatic, her verses challenge readers to unravel the intricacies of her mind and emotions, opening up a space for introspection and understanding.

One of Meera’s defining qualities as a poet is her ability to effortlessly bridge the gap between the real and the imagined. Through her words, she paints vibrant scenes and creates evocative metaphors that resonate with readers. Her ability to juxtapose the richness of history, spirituality, and mythology in her poems adds depth and layers of meaning to her work. She skillfully intertwines cultural symbolism, allowing readers to explore the intersections of memory, tradition, and contemporary life.

Meera’s poems are not only deeply reflective but also profoundly meditative. She uses her verses as a conduit for exploring inner turmoil, existential questions, and the pursuit of solace and peace. Throughout the collection, she guides readers through moments of contemplation, gently urging them to reflect on their own lives and search for meaning within.

With a lyrical and captivating writing style, Meera’s words flow like streams of a boundary-free river, touching the hearts of readers and resonating long after the poems are read. Her imagery is vibrant and chromatic, evoking a vivid sensory experience that transports readers to the landscapes of her imagination. Whether she is describing the serene course of the River Periyar or exploring the enigmatic mysteries of life, her words leave a lasting impression.

“Dakshina Kashi” is Meera Vineeth Kodakadath’s second collection of poems, and it solidifies her place as a poet of exceptional talent and introspective depth. Through her verses, Meera invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where emotions flow freely and thoughts find solace in the power of words. Her poems touch the essence of what it means to be human, urging readers to embrace life’s challenges with resilience and seek the beauty that lies within.

This collection will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on readers, as they reflect on Meera’s words, immerse themselves in her imagery, and find their own echoes in the tapestry she weaves. “Dakshina Kashi” is a poetic masterpiece that shines a light on the nuances of human existence and the enduring power of the written word.

Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar

About the author

Preeth Nambiar, an Indian poet, journalist, and educationist, is a visionary leader in spreading humanitarian values through literature. As the founder of the Writers Capital International Foundation, he has created a global platform for unity and understanding. His eloquent poetry reflects a blend of narration and mysticism, while his short stories captivate with their poetic essence. Advocating holistic education, he considers instilling universal values in the new generation must be a major aim of education. Through his organization, he organizes influential festivals and promotes minimalism and compassion. Preeth Nambiar’s contributions have garnered international recognition, including the YMG Gandhi International Award and the World Icon of Peace Award.

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North vs South India: Understanding the Great Divide

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South India and North India are two distinct regions of India that have a rich cultural and historical legacy. Although they share certain similarities, they are also vastly different from one another in terms of language, cuisine, dress, religion, customs, and traditions.

One of the most significant differences between South India and North India is the language. South India is home to four major Dravidian languages: Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. In contrast, North India has a more significant diversity of languages, with Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali, and Gujarati being the most prominent ones. While Hindi is the official language of North India, each state in South India has its official language, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the region.

Another significant difference between the two regions is the cuisine. South Indian cuisine is known for its spicy and tangy flavors, which often include rice, lentils, and coconut. Idlis, dosas, vadas, and sambar are some of the most popular dishes in South India. In contrast, North Indian cuisine is characterized by its rich and creamy gravies, tandoori bread, and use of dairy products like ghee and paneer. Roti, naan, paratha, biryani, and butter chicken are some of the most famous North Indian dishes.

Religion is also a differentiating factor between the two regions. While Hinduism is the predominant religion in both regions, the form of worship and the customs associated with it differently. In South India, there is a more significant emphasis on temple worship and rituals, with Dravidian architecture being prevalent in the temples. In contrast, North India has a more significant Islamic influence, with many Mughal-era monuments like the Taj Mahal and Red Fort being located in the region.

Dress is another aspect that sets the two regions apart. Traditional South Indian attire for men includes a dhoti, a veshti, or a lungi, while women usually wear a sari or a salwar kameez. In contrast, North Indian men wear kurta pajama, and women wear sarees or suits.

Customs and traditions also vary significantly between the two regions. For instance, South Indian weddings typically involve the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom, while North Indian weddings often include a baraat or a procession of the groom on a horse. Festivals like Onam, Pongal, and Vishu are celebrated with much fervor in South India, while Diwali, Holi, and Dussehra are celebrated with equal enthusiasm in North India.

In a nutshell, South India and North India are two distinct regions with unique identities, cultures, and traditions. While they share certain similarities, they also have significant differences that make them stand apart from each other. Understanding these differences can help promote greater appreciation and respect for the diverse cultural heritage of India.

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When Social Media Challenges Quality literature: Editorial

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Social media is a giant neon sign that flashes continuously, ‘LOOK AT ME,’ while it saps our time and leaves us empty-handed. – Nir Eyal

Being in the Writers Capital Foundation and its subsidiaries, where we communicate with hundreds of writers from across the world, we have an opportunity to read a number of works on a daily basis and mostly through social media. While some of the works create strong impressions, some of the works not only fail to exhibit greater standards but also leave a shock on how social media interferes with quality in literary works.

In the age of social media, it has become increasingly common for writers to post their literary works on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While this may seem like a convenient way to share one’s writing with a wider audience, the reality is that the quality of literature is often lost in the pursuit of likes, shares, and comments.

Many writers post their work on social media simply for the dopamine boost of receiving validation from others. In doing so, they often sacrifice the time and effort necessary to produce high-quality writing. The result is an oversaturation of mediocre content, drowning out the truly exceptional works of literature.

Compounding this issue are the fake Facebook organizations that have sprung up, purporting to support and promote literary works. In reality, these organizations are often fronts for self-promotion or outright scams, preying on the hopes and dreams of aspiring writers.

The effects of social media on quality literature are significant. By prioritizing likes and shares over quality writing, we risk losing the very essence of what makes literature great – its ability to transport us to other worlds, to challenge our assumptions and beliefs, and to evoke strong emotions within us.

It is crucial that we take steps to combat this trend. We must encourage writers to prioritize the quality of their work over the immediate gratification of social media validation. We must also be vigilant in identifying and exposing fake literary organizations that seek to exploit the literary community.

At the same time, we should not dismiss social media entirely. When used responsibly and in conjunction with traditional literary channels, social media can be a powerful tool for promoting high-quality literature and engaging with readers in meaningful ways.

Social media can have negative effects on the quality of literature and the industry as a whole. The emphasis on quick, easily-digestible content can lead to a decrease in attention spans and a preference for shorter, simpler works. Additionally, the pressure to constantly produce content for social media can lead to a focus on quantity over quality, and the proliferation of fake organizations and online scams can further erode trust in the industry.

A writer may not be a great influencer, however, an influencer can intelligently act as a great writer with the so-called technologies of branding and communication skills. However, the fact is that ultimately, only quality works remain here and the rest will be eventually discarded.  Like that of the Sanskrit phrase ‘Satyameva Jayate’, which means “Truth alone triumphs,” only quality literary works would prevail in the ever-changing sphere of literature.

We must recognize the dangers that social media poses to quality literature, while also embracing its potential to support and elevate literary works. I eanestly believe that by striking a balance between the two, we can ensure that the literary community thrives in the digital age.

Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar
Author-Poet, Educationist & Humanitarian
President & CEO, Writers Capital International Foundation
preethpadmanabhannambiar@gmail.com

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Splendid Signature: Rhythmic Strokes of a Quill by Malakshmi Borthakur: A Review

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Malakshmi Borthakur’s collection of poetry, Splendid Signature: Rhythmic Strokes of a Quill, is a noteworthy contribution to the domain of women’s writing. This collection of 50 poems deals with various themes such as individuality, love, mythology, economic deprivation, childhood, and social violence. Borthakur has a direct and simple style of writing that communicates the deep questions women face regarding their rights to equality, dignity, and independence.

The poems in this collection are an expression of the poet’s concerns with cultural, ideological, and value-related hurdles, which are problematic if not threatening. The language used in the poems is straightforward and easily understood, making the collection accessible to a wide audience.

The poetry collection captures the essence of hope and positive intervention through the struggles women face in contemporary society. The poet asserts that motherhood, family, and traditional norms are not the only concerns women face. The larger social expanse has its influence on women’s lives at both subtle and unsubtle levels.

The simplicity of Borthakur’s writing takes over in most poems, making the reader feel that all is not right with the world. Despite this, the poems also express a sense of fulfillment and hope in a few places, emphasizing positive intervention. The use of apparent clichés in some of the poems is done softly and easily, but there is a suggestion of a dramatic shift when we consider the title under which these lines are placed.

Borthakur’s concern with the travails of existing norms bearing upon sensitive sections in our midst is reflected in her exploration of the theme of love. The poet aims to project emotions as part of experience she visualizes in contemporary surroundings. The images of love in the collection are of a distinct character, not associated with the conventional relationship between a man and a woman.

The book also deals with questions of culture, where poetry is situated. The poet’s aim is to grasp the contentious truths of culture, ideology, and the folk tale, and build an account of distinct creativity. Borthakur’s poems are a form of feminism taking shape as the individual mind grapples with the nuances of complex living.

Splendid Signature: Rhythmic Strokes of a Quill is a valuable collection of poetry that explores the themes of women’s rights, culture, and feminism. Borthakur’s simple and direct style of writing makes this collection accessible to a wide audience. This collection of poems is an excellent addition to the literary domain and is highly recommended for readers who are interested in exploring women’s writing.

I wish you the author the very best in further contributing greatly to the ever-changing sphere of literature.

Preeth Padmanabhan Nambiar
Author-Poet, Educationist & Humanitarian
President & CEO, Writers Capital International Foundation
preethpadmanabhannambiar@gmail.com

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