NEW DELHI: The special issue of Samiksha Varta, a journal dedicated to Hindi literary criticism and book reviews, was released at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi on Saturday. The event brought together noted academicians, literary critics, journalists, and scholars, who underscored the enduring importance of book reviews and literary criticism in strengthening India’s intellectual and cultural traditions.
The gathering focused on the role of critical literary discourse in preserving knowledge, encouraging research, and fostering meaningful public debate. Speakers agreed that book reviews go beyond evaluating published works and serve as valuable academic resources that shape literary thought and intellectual engagement.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shri Ramesh Chandra Gaur, who introduced the newly released special issue and highlighted that it contains reviews of twenty-two important books. He said such publications create opportunities for deeper intellectual discussions and provide readers with access to serious literary analysis. Gaur also stressed the importance of encouraging literature from India’s North-East, describing it as an essential part of the country’s diverse cultural landscape.
Literary Reviews Are Valuable Research Resources
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Satyaketu Sankrit described Samiksha Varta as an important contribution to the tradition of Hindi literary criticism. He recalled that the publication traces its origins to 1967 and has continued its journey with dedication for several decades.
According to him, literary criticism should not be viewed merely as an assessment of books but as an academic exercise that helps readers understand new ideas, literary developments, and evolving intellectual traditions. He said critical reviews contribute significantly to research by documenting important works and providing analytical perspectives for future scholars.
Prof. Sankrit also emphasised the need to document literature related to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), stating that such efforts would help bring serious scholarship before readers while encouraging new writers and researchers. He added that a vibrant culture of literary criticism is essential for building an informed society and contributes to the broader vision of a developed India by 2047.
Speakers Discuss Objectivity and Academic Responsibility
Dr. Abhishek Tandon, former National President of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), appreciated the decision to dedicate the centenary issue of the journal to literature associated with the RSS. Reflecting on his own experiences in public life, he said the organisation had instilled values of discipline, equality, and selfless service, which influenced his intellectual development. He remarked that the strength of any institution lies in its culture and commitment rather than publicity.
Senior journalist Shri Anant Vijay focused on the principles of fair and objective literary criticism. He argued that books should be selected for review on the basis of their literary quality and intellectual contribution rather than the popularity or public image of their authors.
Recalling his interactions with noted literary critic Namvar Singh, Anant Vijay observed that meaningful criticism begins with a careful reading of a text followed by an honest and balanced evaluation. He also acknowledged the influence of respected critic Gopal Rai in inspiring generations of reviewers and scholars to maintain academic integrity in literary discourse.
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Serious Literary Criticism Remains Relevant in the Digital Age
Presiding over the programme, eminent journalist and Padma Bhushan awardee Shri Ram Bahadur Rai described Samiksha Varta as a multi-dimensional journal that reflects diverse streams of Indian intellectual thought.
While appreciating the inclusion of books related to the RSS, he expressed a different perspective on the belief that social media has reduced the importance of literary criticism. According to him, serious scholarship and well-researched criticism continue to remain relevant despite the rapid expansion of digital platforms. He said thoughtful literary analysis continues to influence readers and researchers even in an era dominated by online communication.
Rai also referred to the writings of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and other distinguished scholars, noting that the journal deserves appreciation for expanding the scope of literary reviews by covering diverse subjects and viewpoints.
Historian Prof. Anand Vardhan also addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to the IGNCA Library for supporting his academic work over the years. Viewing the discussion from a historian’s perspective, he highlighted the importance of studying the intellectual and cultural contributions of the RSS. Referring to the book Bharat Vaibhav, he described it as an example of contemporary nationalist scholarship that deserves critical academic engagement.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ragini Sankrit, Editor of Samiksha Varta. She shared her personal journey of continuing the publication established by her father more than five decades ago and acknowledged the encouragement she received from Shri Ram Bahadur Rai. She expressed confidence that the journal would continue to serve as an important platform for literary criticism, scholarly research, and intellectual dialogue.
The event was conducted by Dr. Mahendra Prajapati, who coordinated the proceedings and introduced the speakers. Following the formal release of the special issue, scholars and participants engaged in discussions on contemporary literary criticism and research. Many attendees described the latest edition of Samiksha Varta as a significant contribution to Hindi literary studies, reaffirming the continuing relevance of critical discourse in India’s evolving intellectual landscape.
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