The Indian literary world witnessed a momentous occasion as two exceptional writers, Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and renowned poet-lyricist Gulzar, were jointly awarded the 58th Jnanpith Award for 2023.
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu presented the 58th Jnanpith Award on Friday to two eminent personalities – Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and celebrated poet-lyricist Gulzar. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to Indian literature, and this year, both luminaries were honored for their distinct bodies of work.
Gulzar, whose real name is Sampoorn Singh Kalra, is known for his invaluable contributions to Hindi cinema and literature. He is not only a sensitive lyricist and director but is also considered one of the finest Urdu poets of this era. However, Gulzar was unable to attend the award ceremony in person due to health reasons.
Guardian of Sanskrit: Jagadguru Rambhadracharya
The 75-year-old Rambhadracharya is not only a great Sanskrit scholar but also a spiritual guru, academic, and social worker. The founder of the Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, Rambhadracharya has achieved remarkable literary heights despite being visually impaired since birth. He has authored over 240 books in Sanskrit, Hindi, Awadhi, and several other languages. These include four epic poems, a commentary on Ashtadhyayi, and profound interpretations of Brahmasutra, Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads.
In her address, President Murmu lauded his multifaceted contributions, stating that Rambhadracharya's insightful scholarship is an invaluable asset to Indian literature and spirituality. She described him as an intuitive poet, a profound philosopher, and a unique interpreter of scriptures.
Rambhadracharya's citation mentions that he began studying the Bhagavad Gita at the age of five and started reciting the Ramcharitmanas at seven. His profound linguistic understanding and exceptional memory earned him a gold medal at the university level. He has previously been honored with the Sahitya Akademi Award (2005) and the Padma Vibhushan (2015).
Merchant of Words: Gulzar
In Urdu and Hindi literature, Gulzar's name is synonymous with the subtle expression of emotions. 90-year-old Sampoorn Singh Kalra, known to the world as Gulzar, has profoundly impacted the public through film songs, stories, screenplays, and poems. Although he could not attend the ceremony due to “health reasons,” President Murmu offered her best wishes and praised his writing.
She stated that Gulzar has kept alive the tenderness and sensitivity in literature. He has developed a style that has connected new generations with the power of words.
Gulzar's citation notes that he brought a new rhythm and perspective to Urdu poetry. His songs, "Maine Tere Liye," "Dil Dhoondhta Hai," and "Chaiya Chaiya," have added emotional depth to Indian cinema. His work "Raahi Par" and other literary creations establish him as a serious storyteller. He has received numerous national and international awards, including seven National Awards, 21 Filmfare Awards, the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Padma Bhushan, an Oscar, and a Grammy.
Jnanpith: The Highest Honor in Literature
The Jnanpith Award is the highest civilian award given for outstanding literary contributions in Indian languages. The award includes a citation, a symbolic bronze statue of Vagdevi Saraswati, and a cash prize. This year, the award was presented to two distinct yet equally influential pillars of Sanskrit and Urdu/Hindi literature.
