Honoring Excellence in Journalism, Literature, and Culture: Hemkant Katyayan Memorial Ceremony Held in Mandi.
Shimla:
In a prestigious ceremony held on Wednesday at the Saraswati Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School auditorium in Mandi district, three eminent personalities were honored by the trust formed in memory of Himachal Pradesh’s first veteran journalist, Hemkant Katyayan. The event was graced by Additional Chief Secretary of the State Government, Onkar Sharma, who presented the awards to the honorees.
Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation, Virender Bhatt, Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan, Trust President Nirmala Katyayan, and several dignitaries from across the district were present at the occasion.
The awards included the Hemkant Katyayan Patrakarita Samman presented to veteran journalist Ramesh Bunta from Jogindernagar, the Sahitya Seva Samman awarded to Dr. Vijay Vishal, and the Kala Seva Samman posthumously given to Shehnai player Surajmani, which was received by his wife Meena Devi.
Onkar Sharma, the chief guest, highlighted Mandi’s significant contributions in the fields of journalism, literature, and culture. He expressed admiration for the organizers for establishing a tradition of honoring individuals who have made remarkable contributions, stating that the event was a unique tribute to Hemkant Katyayan’s legacy.
The ceremony, named Adaranjali, included floral tributes to the late Hemkant Katyayan, followed by the lighting of the lamp by Onkar Sharma. Nirmala Katyayan, president of the trust, shared that this annual event will continue to honor distinguished personalities and will be expanded next year.
Senior litterateur Murari Sharma presented an engaging account of Hemkant Katyayan’s life, while his son, Siddharth Katyayan, shared interesting anecdotes about his father. Vijay Vishal also expressed his thoughts, and a special Adaranjali souvenir was unveiled.
Cultural performances were a highlight, with Saraswati Vidya Mandir students presenting group songs and other acts, while artists from Sangeet Sadan showcased folk dances. Mandavya Kala Manch also presented a song in tribute.
Advocate Akash Sharma shared his personal experiences, and Trust Treasurer Birbal Sharma concluded the event with a note of gratitude, ensuring that this event would continue annually with widespread cooperation.
