Scholar Rambhadracharya and Lyricist Gulzar Honoured with Jnanpith Award by the President

The Jnanpith Award is the highest literary award in India, celebrating outstanding literary achievements in various Indian languages. It celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian literature by recognizing both established gurus and modern writers. However, Gulzar’s absence did not diminish the recognition and appreciation shown toward the recipients. The award honors their diverse achievements and serves to motivate writers and scholars in India. Rambhadracharya's awareness of Sanskrit and Gulzar's artistry nourish Indian culture.

Context:

• President Droupadi Murmu honors poet-lyricist Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya with the 58th Jnanpith Award for their significant contributions to Indian literature. 

• Gulzar is known for his notable contributions to Hindi cinema and poetry as well as Urdu literature, whereas Rambhadracharya is revered for his spiritual guidance and depth of Sanskrit literature. 

Key Points

• Awardees:

  • Jagadguru Rambhadracharya: Prominent Hindu educator and author in various genres of Sanskrit literature.

  • Gulzar (Sampooran Singh Kalra): A highly accomplished writer of poems and lyrics for Hindi and Urdu films.

• Contributions:

  • In addition to publishing many volumes, Rambhadracharya is an authority in Sanskrit literature and has composed four epics.

  • Gulzar is well-known for his creativity as a poet and lyricist, shaping the world of Hindi cinema and Urdu poetry alike.

• Recognition:

  • Rambhadracharya was honored with an award certificate, a financial prize, and a bronze image of Vagdevi Saraswati.

  • The President acknowledged Gulzar for maintaining his creative output despite undergoing various health issues.

• Presidential Remarks:

  • The President highly praised Rambhadracharya for his varied works in literature and society.

  • She pointed out Gulzar’s sensitivity in writing and expressed how he inspires both the arts and literature.

• Notable Facts:

  • Rambhadracharya started his education in religious scriptures even before adolescence and has received many educational honors.

  • Gulzar, at 90, is recovering from illness and was wished an early return to better health.

Jnanpith Award: Key Points

• India's oldest and most prestigious literary award, recognizing outstanding contributions to Indian literature

• Bharatiya Jnanpith formed and introduced the Jnanpith Award in 1961.

• Languages Covered: Writings in any of the Indian languages recognized by the Constitution are considered for the prize.

• First Award: The first Jnanpith Award was given to G. Sankara Kurup in 1965 for his work in Malayalam.

• Selection Process: A group of literary scholars reviews and chooses the honoree.

• Award Includes: Agreement certificate, Rs. 1,11,111, and a copper statue of Saraswati.

• Purpose: To honor outstanding literary achievement and perpetuate Indian literary culture.

• Notable Winners: G. Sankara Kurup, Amrita Pritam, Mahadevi Verma, Gulzar, and Rambhadracharya are among those who have received the honor.

Conclusion:

Honoring Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and Gulzar with the Jnanpith Award highlights India’s abundance of cultural and linguistic traditions. Their work ensures that the classical traditions live on while encouraging new generations to creatively carry forward Indian literature. This award promotes India’s dedication to honouring intellectual and artistic achievement by individuals from every part of the country and in every language.