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International Hindi Association hosts poetry symposium in Virginia

The poets tackled contemporary issues with their distinctive mix of humor and critique.

Poets on stage at poetry symposium in Virginia / Image- Courtesy Photo

International Hindi Association (IHA) recently organized a Kavi-Sammelan (poetry symposium) bringing together a diverse lineup of Indian satirists, poets, and stand-up comedians in Falls Church, Virginia.

Dr. Narendra Tandon introduced the poets– Arun Gemini, Shambhu Shikhar and Mumtaz Naseem while Pratap Singh, president of the IHA DC Chapter, served as the master of ceremonies. Dignitaries from the Indian Embassy including Neha Singh, First Secretary (Culture and Education), Ravish Kumar, Second Secretary (Press, Information and Culture), and Rajiv Ahuja, Attache graced the event.

Audience in poetry symposium / Image- Courtesy Photo

Gemini a writer, poet, satirist, and TV presenter is a distinguished member of the Kavi Sammelans around the world. He has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Kaka Hathrasi Award from the Hindi Academy, Government of Delhi, and the Haryana Gaurav Samman from the Haryana Sahitya Akademi, Government of Haryana. 

Arun Gemini / Image- Courtesy image

The Bihari- origin poet has made appearances on popular Indian shows such as  "Wah! Wah! Kya Baat Hai!" and "The Kapil Sharma Show." 

Shambhu Shikhar who rose to fame on StarPlus's show "The Great Indian Laughter Challenge” is a prolific writer, and poet. His recent novel, was "Organic Love II," hile he is working on crafting his forthcoming book, "Chini Ko Jama Karke Fir Se Ganna Bana Du.” He is a popular participant in Kavi Sammelans at iconic venues such as the Red Fort and various cities across India, North America, and the UAE.

Shambhu Shikhar / Image- Courtesy Image

Mumtaz Naseem,a poet with a melodious voice is known for evoking powerful emotions in the audience through her recitations that includes geet, ghazals, and nazms. She often performs  in various venues across Dubai, Qatar, Pakistan, Oman, the UAE, and other countries. 

Mumtaz Naseem / Image- Courtesy Image

The event underscored the remarkable ability of comedy to uncover truths and initiate significant discussions, a statement by the organizers said. “The satirists and poets delivered a captivating blend of insightful humor and artistic expression, making for an unforgettable evening that highlighted the enduring relevance and impact of Hindi literature and comedy in today's world, “ it added.

The National Council of Associations in America (NCAIA), GIA, Association of Indian Muslims (AIM), The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)-Metro DC, Dr. Vivek Vaid, Dr. Suresh Gupta, and Maninder Singh sponsored the symposium.

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