Bokaro: Bokaro’s vibrant literary and cultural identity was celebrated on Wednesday evening as poets from across three states gathered for a national poets’ conference at the 24th Ispatanchal Swadeshi Mela grounds in Sector-4 Mazdoor Maidan. The event was organised by Swadeshi Jagran Manch, with Kalika Creations hosting it under the banner of Rashmipunj Sahitya Sansthan.
Presided over by noted Bokaro poet Arun Pathak and conducted by Dr. Govind Gajab, national president of the literary body, the conference kept audiences engaged for hours with poems, songs and ghazals reflecting love, patriotism, struggle and human emotion. The programme opened with a ceremonial lamp lighting by chief guest Manikant Dhan, Head of Communications at Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL), along with special guest Alok Kumar, Deputy General Manager (Liaison & Administration/Official Language), and participating poets. Guests and performers were later honoured with shawls and mementos.
In his address, Dhan highlighted Bokaro’s distinctive standing in education, literature, art and culture, noting BSL’s continued support in promoting creative pursuits. Kumar also lauded the talent on display and expressed appreciation for the initiative.
The recitation session began with a Saraswati Vandana by poet Karuna Kalika. A series of performances followed, featuring voices from Nalanda, Nawada, Jamshedpur, Sahebganj, Bokaro, Ranchi, Patna and Raebareli, each presenting diverse themes—from social reflection and national sentiment to personal struggle and lyrical expression. The evening concluded with Arun Pathak’s Maithili Holi song, which drew warm applause.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Kumar Sanjay of Swadeshi Jagran Manch. Coordination of the programme was handled by Karuna Kalika, with support from Arun Pathak. The event witnessed participation from a large gathering of literary enthusiasts and local dignitaries, reflecting the city’s continuing engagement with cultural and artistic activities.
