68th Foundation Day Celebrated
Udaipur: The 68th Foundation Day of the Rajasthan Sahitya Akademi was celebrated on Wednesday at the Academy’s main auditorium. On this occasion, a paper-reading session and a literary seminar on the theme *“Challenges in Literature and the Role of the Akademi”* were organized. A book exhibition was also held, featuring publications by the Akademi, other literary organizations, publishers, and writers.
The program was presided over by Akademi Administrator and Divisional Commissioner **Pragya Kevalramani**. The Chief Guest was **Vishnu Sharma ‘Harihar’**, President of the Chittorgarh Province of the Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad. Special guests included District Education Officer **Lokesh Bharti** and renowned educationist **Prof. Gayatri Tiwari**.
In his welcome address, Akademi Secretary **Dr. Basant Singh Solanki** said that the Rajasthan Sahitya Akademi was established on 28 January 1958 and has since become a leading institution for literary creation, promotion, and preservation in Rajasthan. For the past 68 years, the Akademi has continuously worked to preserve the state’s literary heritage and inspire new generations. In today’s era, he emphasized, the Akademi must adopt new and innovative mediums more actively so that Hindi, Rajasthani, and other regional languages can establish their significant presence on the global मंच.
Presiding officer **Pragya Kevalramani** stated in her address that literature is not merely a play of words, but a carrier of culture, values, and emotions. Even amid challenges, the Akademi should provide platforms to writers so they can present their works fearlessly. With joint efforts by the government and the Akademi to encourage young writers, Rajasthani literature can reach new heights.
Chief Guest **Vishnu Sharma ‘Harihar’** remarked that literature is a mirror of society, but in today’s times, market forces, the rush of social media, and commercialism are affecting its depth. Institutions like the Akademi can play an important role in confronting these challenges. Literature should not be limited to entertainment alone; it must also serve as a medium to awaken social consciousness. Preserving and revitalizing Rajasthan’s rich folk-literature tradition in contemporary contexts is our collective responsibility.
Renowned craftsman and litterateur **Hemant Joshi**, in his paper presentation, highlighted the Akademi’s 68-year literary journey and its significant contribution to Hindi literature. He also stressed the need to expand literary programs at school and college levels so that the younger generation remains connected to its cultural roots.
Special guest **Prof. Gayatri Tiwari** expressed that education and literature complement each other. While challenges such as language erosion and digital distractions affect literature, institutions like the Akademi can collaborate with educational institutions to cultivate literary awareness among youth. District Education Officer **Lokesh Bharti** stated that the Education Department considers literature an integral part of education and praised the Akademi for honoring writers as well as promoting literature through education. Senior litterateur **Dr. Sharda Pota** also shared her views.
The program featured cultural performances by TEAM Sanstha, along with exhibitions related to art, literature, and culture, which became major attractions. **Dr. Sharda Bhatt** began the ceremony with a Saraswati Vandana, followed by an enchanting Odissi dance performance by **Shaili Srivastava and her team**. **Rajat Meghnani (Kahani Wala Rajat)** captivated the audience with a storytelling session of a Vijaydan Detha tale. Art exhibitions by **Shailendra Sharma** (Anayaas Art Expression), the book *“Batiyati Kitaben”* by renowned critic **Kundan Mali**, paintings by **Nilofar Munir**, artisan potli crafts by **Ruchi Sukhwal**, and sketch art by **Rahul Mali** impressed visitors. The program was coordinated by **Sunil Tank**.
On this occasion, the January 2026 issue of the Akademi’s monthly magazine **“Madhumati”** (the first issue of its 66th year), featuring new creative works and literary articles, was officially released. The book exhibition held on the Akademi campus showcased publications of the Rajasthan Sahitya Akademi and *Madhumati*, along with books from the metropolitan unit of the Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad and Yugdhara literary institutions, drawing significant attention.
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