Edlabadkar's two new books launched: Calls for reviving reading culture through families

Nagpur: Two heartfelt collections of columns by senior journalist, columnist, and author Prakash Edlabadkar were launched in a literary gathering at Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh (VSS) complex on Friday evening. Titled ‘Kaivalyache Vatsalya' and ‘Chandanyache Zad', the books are compilations of Edlabadkar's popular columns previously published in a Marathi daily.

The event was jointly organised by VSS and Rudra Prakashan. Orator Vivek Ghalsasi was the keynote speaker. Senior journalist Sudhir Pathak, scholar of Sant Sahitya Dr Shyamala Mujumdar, Rudra Prakashan's Chandrakant Lakhe, and VSS president Pradeep Date also attended.

In his address, Ghalsasi appealed for the revival of reading culture in households, stressing that "in today's fast-paced world, reading habits are fading, and the responsibility lies with the educated classes." He emphasised that the tradition nurtured by grandparents must now be passed on by parents. "There is love in modern writing, but the spiritual essence ‘kaivalya' is missing," he remarked, expressing hope that such meaningful literature would inspire more readers.

Speaking about his newly released works, Edlabadkar said, "Both books are deeply personal and dedicated to my parents." He explained that the first book is a memoir of his mother, while the second explores the writings of women saints in the Sant tradition.

Dr Shyamala Mujumdar, reflecting on the books, said they evoke a deep sense of sensitivity and imagination. Pradeep Date praised Edlabadkar's contribution to literature and underlined the importance of publishing reflective and culturally rooted writings. Veteran artist Chandrakant Channe created the cover designs.