by: Amogh Mishra
“Some Memories Some Essays,” by Dr. Raina is the exploration of writer’s experiences of life seamlessly weaving together two distinctive features.The initial aspect or feature assures readers of a collection unveiling memories derived from writer’s profound life- experiences and memories. These memories, sourced from his life, guarantee authenticity and emotional resonance, transforming the reader into an intricate dynamic of shaping life. The subsequent feature or the second introduces a series of essays researching into a spectrum of themes deeply rooted in the essence of Kashmir. Going beyond the personal experiences, these essays explore the expansive canvas of Kashmir’s life, literature, rituals, and persona. This signifies well-conceived exploration of cultural subtleties, offering readers a profound understanding of the region’s intricacies and traditions.
Dr. Raina’s attempt to organize a blend of memories and essays, each intricately connected to the dynamics of life, is a praiseworthy initiative. These compositions are presented as gateways, summoning readers to investigate into the rich experiences that collectively shape human existence. This dual approach, intertwining personal reflections with a broader exploration of culture, promises a diverse and enriching reading encounter. The preface establishes the anticipation that the collection surpasses a mere collection of writings; it is, instead, a stroke on the canvas of shared human experiences. He appears to encourage readers not just to observe the text but to actively participate in the intricate dance of life, literature, and cultural understanding.
The commitment to present experiential knowledge as a wellspring of inspiration and education is captivating. The themes under scrutiny are poised to strike a chord with the universal intricacies of existence, suggesting a narrative that transcends geographical boundaries. This invites readers from diverse backgrounds to discover common ground in the collective journey of human existence. His assurance that the collection will capture the imagination and deeply resonate with readers builds an expectation of a literary work that transcends mere entertainment. It serves as an invitation to engage actively, prompting reflection, learning, and imaginative exploration, indicating that the book aspires to offer more than a passive reading experience.
The standout essay, “Down the Memory Lane: Auspicious Occasion!” takes readers on a poignant journey as he recounts his visit to his hometown Jammu/Srinagar after an extended absence. The narrative beautifully captures the evolution of familial bonds over time, portraying the intricate web of emotions associated with reunions, shared joy, and the inevitability of loss. Dr. Raina’s prose is infused with a sense of longing and love, creating a deeply moving narrative that resonates with readers on a personal level.
“Respect for Writers” is another noteworthy essay that pays homage to the late Shri Prabhakar Shrotriya, a revered figure in the Hindi literary world. Dr. Raina’s recollection of a memorable encounter with Shri Shrotriya underscores the importance of valuing,respecting and cherishing writers and their contributions to society. This essay serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that literary figures can have on our cultural landscape.
“Some Memories: Some Essays” is a captivating literary collection that throws light on the essence of Kashmiri culture through some poignant essays. Apart from highlighting the profound significance of the Kashmiri Ramayan “Ramavtarcharit” in two essays, the book explores the works of distinguished writers like Dina Nath Nadim and Ali Mohamad Lone, Hari Krishan Kaul, Akhtar Mohi-Ud-Din, Pushkar Bhan, Amin Kamil, Sufi Ghulam Mohammad, Bansi Nirdosh etc. enhancing its literary value. Engaging essays such as “Vibrant Dubai” and “Love Lake of Dubai” share the author’s personal reflections, adding a touch of nostalgia. The inclusion of translated articles, notably “When I Wore Necktie” by Somnath Sadhu and “How was first Kashmiri Film Mehndirat Made?” by Pushkar Bhan, portray expressive diction of the writer as a translator. ”
The collection also probes into broader themes, such as cultural heritage and the significance of festivals like Diwali, Maha Shivratri, Raksha Bandhan and Ramadan/Ramazan. In the essay dedicated to Diwali, Dr. Raina skillfully articulates the deeper meaning behind the festival of lights. Beyond its visual splendor, Diwali symbolizes hope, positivity, and the triumph of light over darkness. Dr. Shiben’s reflections on Diwali are a powerful reminder of the transformative-power of unity, compassion, and spiritual awakening. According to the writer, Diwali is the Festival of Lights and Spiritual Enlightenment while Ramadan is the month of purity of heart, soul and body! Ramadan reminds us that it’s high time that moral values as laid down in our holy books are not only propagated widely but followed strictly in our day to day life. If that is done this world will, undoubtedly, turn out to be an abode of peace and tranquility, a bed of roses, besides! Maha-Shivratri symbolizes the unity of Shiv and Shakti. The writer enunciates that on the day of Mahashivratri, devotees worship Lord Shiva also known as Mahadeva. Mahashivratri is termed as the ‘Great Night of Shiva’ and it is said that Lord Shiva saved the entire Universe from a pot of poison that emerged from the ocean during Samudra Manthan/Ocean-Churning.
Devotees celebrate this festival with zeal and zest. According to mythology, it is said that Lord Shiva got married to Goddess Parvati on the day of Mahashivratri. Women perform Puja and worship Goddess Parvati also known as Gauri and it is said that Goddess grants them a boon in the form of a decent and virtuous husband and a long-married life. Similarly highlighting the significance of Raksha Bandhan festival, Dr.Raina mentions: ‘while traditionally celebrated between blood-related brothers and sisters, the festival has expanded to include cousins, close friends, and even neighbors who share a brotherly or sisterly bond. This inclusivity reflects the universal message of love and protection that a festival suggests. And this is how festivals contribute to strengthening the concept of unity amongst the people in the country they live in.’
Essays like ‘Benefits of Seeking Second Opinion’, ’Pitfalls of Self-Promotion’, ’Misunderstanding in Relationships’, Moral Education’, ’Teachers are Nation Builders’, ’Art of Translation’ etc. are based on the writer’s deep study and understanding of the respective subjects and thus are worth reading.
Throughout the essays, Dr. Raina’s writing is characterized by insight, wisdom, and a deep appreciation for the exquisiteness of human relationships. His ability to convey complex emotions with clarity and sensitivity is proof of his literary prowess. The collection is not merely a compilation of essays; it is a mosaic of lived experiences, each piece contributing to the vibrancy and vividness of life.
“Some Memories Some Essays” stands out as a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant work, inviting readers to reflect on their own memories and experiences. Dr. Shiben Krishen Raina’s literary contribution is immense, and this book further solidifies his reputation as a distinguished writer and observer of life’s profound moments. As readers immerse themselves in the pages of this collection, they are sure to be captivated by the depth of insight and the universal truths that transcend individual experiences.
All in all, the collection offers a profound exploration of human nature. The writer, through the probing of personal anecdotes and reflective narratives, invites readers to contemplate the universal aspects of the human experience. Themes such as resilience, love, loss, and the enduring human spirit are woven into the essays, creating a mosaic of emotions that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level.
The essays within “Some Memories: Some Essays” are more than just a collection of words on paper; they are an invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration. The author’s ability to navigate the complexities of Kashmiri life, literature, and human nature with sensitivity and depth makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking not only literary enrichment but also a profound understanding of human behavior and attitude.
Dr. Shiben Krishen Raina, author of “Some Memories Some Essays,” is a distinguished educationist, a seasoned translator, and a notable contributor to Hindi literature. Renowned for translating works from Kashmiri, Urdu, and English into Hindi, his work of art, the translation and transliteration of the Kashmiri Ramayana “Ramavtar Charit,” published by Bhuvan Vani Trust, Lucknow, earned him the prestigious Tamra-Patra from the Bihar Rajya Bhasha Vibhag in 1975. Bhartiya Anuvad Parishad, Delhi, honored him with the Anuvad-Shri award. Dr. Raina’s involvement as a senior fellow (Hindi) with the Ministry of Culture and as a non-official member of the Hindi Salahkar Samiti of the Ministry of Law and Justice (Government of India) from 2015 further underscores his contributions. Authoring around a hundred papers and sixteen books.
Having obtained a first-class-first postgraduate degree from Kashmir University in the year 1962, Dr. Raina earned his doctoral degree from Kurukshetra University on UGC Fellowship way back in 1968.He possesses a master’s degree in English language and literature from Rajasthan University also.
Amogh Mishra, Devi Ahilya University, Indore M.P.
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