Literature as a Driving Force for Nation-Building: Arjun Ram Meghwal

Ananya soch: Union Minister of Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, emphasized that literature is a powerful medium for nation-building and plays a vital role in shaping social consciousness, values, and positive change. He called upon writers and authors to create literature that awakens feelings of patriotism, sacrifice, self-respect, and responsibility towards the nation.

The Union Minister was addressing a special felicitation program organized by the Indian Language and Literature Forum, in collaboration with Veena Music, at Garvi Gujarat Bhavan on Akbar Road, New Delhi. The event was held to honor authors and writers participating in the ongoing World Book Fair.

Literature Beyond Words, A Force for Progress

During his address, Meghwal recited a folk song by renowned Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi, highlighting how her compositions instill a deep sense of patriotism among the masses. He noted that writers, too, should strive to create works that inspire society in a similar way. “When literature is aligned with national interest, it is no longer just words on paper; it becomes a force that propels society and the nation forward,” he said.

He further stated that the cultural consciousness and moral values of any nation are reflected through its literature. In a diverse country like India, literature has the unique ability to transcend boundaries of language, caste, region, and class, fostering a shared national identity.

Inspiring Youth and Strengthening Values

The Minister stressed the need for literature that inspires the youth, connects them with India’s culture, history, and values, and instills a strong sense of duty towards the nation. He added that patriotism should be reflected not only in slogans but also in thoughts, behavior, and creative expression. Literature rooted in values such as service, honesty, sacrifice, and self-respect, he said, has a profound and lasting impact on society.

Promoting Culture and Regional Languages

Meghwal also highlighted the government’s continuous efforts to promote literature, culture, and creative expression through various forums and initiatives. Referring to the Rajasthani language, he described it as simple, sweet, and globally spoken by the Rajasthani diaspora, and praised K.C. Malu for his remarkable contribution to cultural awareness through folk music.

At the start of the program, Hemjit Malu and Dr. Kumesh Kumar Jain welcomed the guests, while Senior Advisor Purushottam Diwakar expressed gratitude. Doordarshan Director Akhilesh Sharma and several literary figures were present.

Courtesy Meeting with Lok Sabha Speaker

Separately, a delegation of the Indian Language and Literature Sangam Jaipur met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to brief him on the organization’s activities. During their three-day Delhi visit, the delegation reviewed stalls at the World Book Fair and interacted with representatives of the National Book Trust and leading publishing houses.