Constructing Narratives

But what started as a means to build sustaining clientele soon grew to have a life of its own. “Many people began calling to know how they could subscribe to our magazine or what they could pay to get it. But it wasn’t a money-making venture for us. We have been dedicated to promoting Marathi literature without a cost. We would ask people to simply drop at our office and pick up a copy for themselves,” says Hinge,adding that they grew to printing 3,000 copies and eventually releasing an e-version. They also began to give the magazine to certain schools,colleges and libraries in the city to be able to reach more people.

“For some,the journal is like a trip down nostalgia lane as they read the works of authors that shaped their thoughts. For the young,it’s an exposure to unadulterated expression,” says the editor,adding that it has become a collector’s special for many.

The response,both from litterateurs and readers alike,has undoubtedly kept him going. “We always get in touch with writers or their family members to seek permission in using their material. Literary giant Babasaheb Purandare,who is 91 years old now,is particularly encouraging. He tells us not to give the honorarium amount for his works but to keep going,” shares Hinge. Another incident has constantly challenged Hinge. “I once wrote to poet Mangesh Padgaonkar back in 2003 for permission to use his work. He wrote back saying it was a good venture but it should not be arambhshoor without being able to sustain. It keeps ringing in my memory,” says the editor.