Pune: Poets meet at crematorium to fight superstition

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Entry was free. The stage was set up near a spot where bodies are cremated. And anyone could recite poetry. About 20 artistes from different parts of Pune took part in the event, which was attended by about 500 people. Among the artistes were members of the Bhim Chava organisation and the Kabir Kala Manch.

Apart from discussing superstition and social issues, performers condemned the killings of MANS founder and rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, veteran communist leader Govind Pansare and Kannada scholar M M Kalburgi. But the highlight of the night was a solo performance by Kumar Aher on social reformer Mahatma Phule.

College student Swati Kadu from Baramati was among those who recited poems. Her poetry book, Mazi Mansa, was also released at the event. “I am happy my book was released at a poets’ meet in a crematorium, meant to create awareness against superstition,” said Swati. The MANS team presented a song, ‘Amhi Prakash Bije Rujvit Chalalo’, or ‘sowing the seeds of light’.

“People have fear, superstition and wrong beliefs in their minds when they think of a crematorium and amavasya. We tried to get rid of that by organising the poets’ meet. We will also hold an awareness meeting for school students and parents at a cemetery at 11 pm on Friday,” said MANS district president Nandini Jadhav.

Sunil Nikalje of the Siddhartha Sangh said, “We had obtained the necessary permissions for the meet. We put up a few posters in the area, but the message was mainly spread through social media. The response was very encouraging.”