*‘Sahitya Seva’ Poetry Meet Held at Lok Bhavan under Seva Pakhwada-2026*
*Families of Freedom Fighters Honoured by the Governor*
A poetry meet titled ‘Sahitya Seva’ was organised at Lok Bhavan under Seva Pakhwada-2026 under the joint aegis of Lok Bhavan and the Himachal Sahitya Evam Sanskriti Manch, with Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta presiding over the programme. Families of freedom fighters from Himachal Pradesh were specially invited to the event and honoured by the Governor.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the programme was not merely a poetry meet but an opportunity to connect literature with sensitivity, service and patriotism. He said literature was the voice of society’s soul, while poetry went beyond an arrangement of words to express human emotions, social consciousness and the aspirations of a nation. A meaningful poem, he said, not only touches the heart but also inspires people to contribute towards society and the country. When poets give voice to social concerns, celebrate nature, remember the valour of national heroes, inspire the youth or draw attention to social challenges, their creative contribution also becomes a form of social service.
The Governor said that literature and poetry had played an important role in creating public awareness during India’s freedom movement by inspiring national consciousness, self-respect and the spirit of freedom. In the Indian tradition, literature has therefore been regarded not merely as a means of entertainment but also as an instrument of public welfare and national awakening.
Referring to the contribution and sacrifices of freedom fighters, he said that the India they envisioned was built on their courage, sacrifice and struggle. He said Himachal Pradesh had also made an important contribution to the freedom movement, with many brave patriots participating in the struggle against British rule. “We are honouring the families of freedom fighters today, but in reality, this is an honour to the memory and ideals of those great freedom fighters. Their struggle reminds us that nation-building is based not only on rights, but also on duties, sacrifice and responsibility,” he said.
The Governor added that Seva Pakhwada provides an opportunity to make the spirit of service a part of everyday life, stressing that service is not the responsibility of any one institution or government alone but a collective responsibility of all citizens.
Earlier, the Governor also recited a poem, which was appreciated by the gathering. Storyteller, novelist and poet Shri S.R. Harnot welcomed the Governor.
Shri Randhir Sharma, MLA from Naina Devi was also present on the occasion. He also honoured the Governor.
