A CORRESPONDENT
DHEKIAJULI: In a commendable stride towards fostering Xahitya Xabha culture and encouraging creative expression among budding and established writers alike, the Sirajuli branch of the Axam Xahitya Xabha successfully hosted its inaugural Spring Literary Meet on April 27. The gathering marked the beginning of a bi-monthly seasonal initiative designed to provide a vibrant platform for litterateur dialogue and cultural reflection.
Held at the residence of Dr Mohikanta Das, veteran educationist, honorary life member, and district executive of the Xabha, the meet was conducted under the graceful stewardship of branch President Dhruvajyoti Kakoti. Writers, poets, and literature enthusiasts from across Sirajuli assembled in large numbers to celebrate the written word and pay homage to Late Vaishnavite litterateur Kamiram Sharma, to whom the event was solemnly dedicated.
The proceedings commenced on a melodious note with a heartfelt rendition of the Axam Xahitya Xabha’s anthem ‘Chira Senehi Mor Bhasha Janani’ by local talents Dipanjali Hazarika Das, Hiranmoyee Baruah Das, Tarali Kalita, Moni Kalita, and Jayashree Kalita. What followed was an inspiring showcase of self-composed poetry, short stories, and essays, interspersed with musical and spoken-word performances that energized the audience.
Vice-President Sujit Kataki inaugurated the event, while Secretary Tonkeshwar Rajbongshi outlined the objectives of the seasonal literary initiative. A ceremonial lamp-lighting before the portrait of Kamiram Sharma, led by Dr Mohikanta Das, marked the official tribute, followed by a floral homage by all attendees, a heartfelt expression of collective reverence.
The meet featured a series of enriching literary presentations. Noteworthy among them were essays on Bihu by Associate Secretary Dharani Keout and senior writer retired teacher Rumi Hazarika Haloi. Sujit Kataki presented a timely essay titled ‘Endangered Assamese Culture,’ while Rajbongshi offered a deep dive into ‘Literary Sankardev.’ Contributions also included poems and stories by Sankeshwar Koch (Greater Sirajuli Poets’ Conference Secretary), retired teacher-poet Gobinda Nath, Krishna Acharya, Ajit Minz, Dhaniram Kalita, and Dhanada Saikia Kataki, Secretary of the Sirajuli branch Women Writers’ Association. Poets Dimpi Keout and Satyajit Saikia also lent vibrancy to the session with their original works.
Adding prestige to the occasion, Dr Sukdev Adhikari, President of the Sonitpur district Xahitya Xabha, Head of the Bihu Culture Council, and Principal of Lokanayak Omeo Kumar Das College, Dhekiajuli, graced the event as chief guest. He delivered an insightful keynote and offered a discerning critique of the literary pieces presented, enriching the discussion with his erudition.
Cultural resonance deepened with two soul stirring Kamrupia folk songs performed by folk artists Liladhar Das and Arun Nath from Majroumari, captivating the audience with the local traditional musical heritage.
The programme also featured a special address by former branch president and state awarded teacher Sachindra Baishya, who commended the society’s proactive steps toward community engagement. Among the distinguished attendees were Nagen Chandra Baishya (President of Elora Science Forum), Gunadadev Adhikari (President of the local Drama Council), Basu Haloi (Drama Council Secretary), and former Majroumari branch secretary Paresh Das. Over fifty literature enthusiasts attended, reinforcing the community’s enduring commitment to the arts.
The event concluded with a collective rendition of the national anthem, bringing to close a session that was as reflective as it was celebratory.
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