REMEMBERING DINKAR IS EASY; INTERNALIZING IS DIFFICULT:DEVANAND SINGH

REMEMBERING DINKAR IS EASY; INTERNALIZING IS DIFFICULT:DEVANAND SINGH

24-SEP-ENG 10

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------The mere mention of Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’ evokes a vast realm within Hindi literature—one defined by vigor, self-respect, national consciousness, social justice, and a deep concern for the people. Born on September 23, 1908, in Simaria, Bihar, Dinkar did not view poetry merely as a medium for aesthetics or entertainment; instead, he used it to engage with the pressing issues facing society and the nation. This is why, even decades later, his works are not confined to literary volumes; they are frequently quoted in public discourse and continue to inspire new generations.

Today, on his birth anniversary, literary, social, and voluntary organizations across the country are hosting commemorative events. He is also being remembered at his birthplace, Simaria. Stages have been set, garlands offered, speeches delivered, and Dinkar’s verses recited to honor his contributions. While all this is essential, a significant question arises: are we merely remembering Dinkar, or are we actually integrating his vision into our own lives and actions?

Internalizing Dinkar means more than just reading his poems or reciting his famous lines. The restlessness found in his works stems from a deep-seated aversion to injustice; the outrage is directed against exploitation; the patriotism transcends mere slogans; and the sense of self-respect instills a profound sense of responsibility—extending from the individual to society and the nation at large.

Dinkar maintains a presence in the literary world today, yet a pertinent question remains: is the voice of social unrest and public concern—so characteristic of Dinkar—equally vocal in the literature of our times? This is not a question directed at any single poet or writer, but rather a matter for introspection for the entire literary community.

Today, numerous poets and writers are active at the regional level. They are incorporating the languages, cultures, social issues, and local concerns of their respective regions into their creative works. This is the power of literature. However, regional consciousness and national consciousness need not be at odds with each other. Dinkar’s literature offers us the broad perspective that one can remain rooted in one’s own soil while still caring for the entire nation and society.

Journalism faces a similar challenge today. A journalist’s role is not merely to record events but also to bring societal issues to the forefront. Drawing inspiration from Dinkar’s writing does not mean every journalist should imitate his language or style; rather, it means strengthening the traditions of fearlessness, public concern, and the spirit of questioning within journalism. Whether dealing with the establishment or society, the courage to raise questions where they are needed must be maintained.

For writers, too, perhaps Dinkar’s most significant message is that literature should engage in a dialogue with the times. Whether it is Karna in *Rashmirathi*, the understanding of war in *Kurukshetra*, the human and philosophical discourse in *Urvashi*, or the cultural vision in *Sanskriti Ke Char Adhyay*—viewing Dinkar through a single lens would diminish his vast and multifaceted personality.

Therefore, the need today is not merely to chant "Long live Rashtrakavi Dinkar." The need is to take his literature to the new generation. Serious discussions about his works should take place in schools and colleges. Literary organizations should not limit themselves to birth and death anniversaries but should organize readings, dialogues, and discussions throughout the year. Journalists should read Dinkar, poets should understand him, and social organizations should integrate the public concerns found in his literature into their own work.

The absence of the *Rashtrakavi* is not felt simply because there are no poets today; it is felt because there is a need to continuously strengthen the kind of broad public acceptance, fearless ideological voice, and tradition of linking literature with social consciousness that Dinkar embodied.

Tribute to Dinkar The most meaningful way to honor him is not merely to hold events in his name, but to read his works and engage with the questions they raise: What is the injustice of our times? What is the suffering of society? What is the role of a citizen in a democracy? What is the responsibility of literature? And what is the true meaning of patriotism?

Simaria, Dinkar’s birthplace, remains a focal point of his memory to this day. Events held across the country keep his popularity and literary legacy alive. However, the true test lies in whether future generations will remember Dinkar merely through monuments, photographs, and speeches, or whether they will internalize the consciousness embedded in his writings and apply it to their own lives.

Reading Dinkar means connecting with literature; understanding him means connecting with society; and internalizing his core consciousness means becoming responsible towards one’s own times.

Pay tribute to Dinkar not just with words, but with thoughts and deeds. That alone would be true respect for the 'Rashtrakavi' (National Poet).