Jammu, April 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) Monday hosted a distinguished literary event at K.L. Saigal Hall to release the autobiography ‘Deh Dhaaran Ka Dand’, authored by renowned academic and literary figure Prof Raj Kumar.
The book was formally launched by Secretary, JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, in the presence of eminent personalities including Padma Shri awardee Prof Lalit Mangotra, former Additional Secretary of JKAACL Arvinder Singh Amn, the author’s spouse Swaran Kanta, and Chanchal Sharma, Editor (Hindi), JKAACL. In her welcome address, Harvinder Kour praised Prof Raj Kumar’s exceptional contributions to Hindi literature and higher education. She described the autobiography as a deeply reflective account of a life marked by intellectual intensity, spiritual insight, and unwavering commitment to truth.
Prof Lalit Mangotra, in his keynote remarks, highlighted the challenges inherent in writing one’s own life story. “Autobiography is not merely a chronological account,” he said. “It is a bold act of self-examination—one that Prof Raj Kumar has undertaken with rare honesty and clarity. His narrative invites readers to confront their own truths.” Arvinder Singh Amn offered a thoughtful introduction to the book, noting its thematic richness and literary finesse. He described Deh Dhaaran Ka Dand (The Penalty of Embodiment) as more than a memoir—it is a meditative exploration of life’s trials, personal detachment, and the quiet resilience found in spiritual awareness. Award-winning writer Rajeshwar Singh Raju delivered an analytical presentation on the book, drawing attention to its philosophical undertones and contemporary relevance. He emphasised how Prof Raj Kumar’s introspective narrative transcends the personal to resonate with universal human experience.
Now retired from the department of Hindi at the University of Jammu, Prof Raj Kumar continues to live a contemplative life. His autobiography captures his philosophical acceptance of criticism and adversity, portraying endurance with the clarity of a sage—drawing metaphoric inspiration from mythological motifs such as Lord Shiva’s endurance of poison or Krishna’s acceptance of fate. With a literary career spanning over three decades, Prof Raj Kumar has authored acclaimed works across genres including fiction, poetry, and cultural studies. The vote of thanks was delivered by Javaid Rahi, Divisional Head, Jammu (JKAACL), who commended the autobiography for its honest, spiritually enriching, and intellectually resonant narrative. He remarked that the book would serve as a source of inspiration for young minds and literary enthusiasts alike. The event proceedings were conducted with elegance by Chanchal Sharma, who ensured the smooth and dignified flow of the ceremony.
