Dr. Shailesh Gupta Veer Honored with Guftgu Award at Prayagraj Literary Festival 2026

Prayagraj, March 29, 2026: The literary organization 'Guftgu' organized the Prayagraj Literary Festival 2026 at Pink Hall, Arya Kanya Inter College. During the event, prominent poet and litterateur Dr. Shailesh Gupta Veer was bestowed with the prestigious 'Guftgu Award' for his writings that awaken and alert the nation and society. The award was presented to him by renowned film actor Raza Murad.

Notably, Dr. Shailesh is a distinguished bilingual poet, critic, editor, and multi-award-winning litterateur who writes in both Hindi and English. Holding a PhD in archaeology, he serves as editor of Micropoetry Cosmos and The Fatehpur Resolution. His works have earned international acclaim, with his poems translated into over 40 languages. His recently published doha collection 'Kab Tootengi Chuppiyan'  grabbed headlines last year. He also serves on the advisory board of 'Jan Swasthya Dharna', a publication of the Ministry of Family Welfare and Health, Government of India.

The event saw the presence of several eminent figures from India's literary and cultural spheres. Dr. Imtiyaz Ahmad Ghazi, President of the organization, extended thanks to all honored litterateurs.

Moroccan Writer and Translator Hassane Yarti Honored with the International Excellence Award "City of Galateo" in Italy

GORIZIA, ITALY, The Moroccan writer, translator, and anthologist Hassane Yarti has been officially announced as a winner of the XII International Excellence Award "City of Galateo 2025." This prestigious recognition was presented during a high-profile cultural ceremony held in Gorizia, designated as the European Capital of Culture 2025. The award, organized by the VerbumlandiArt International Association, celebrates outstanding contributions to literature, art, and cultural diplomacy. The 2025 edition gathered elite intellectuals, poets, and researchers from across the globe, emphasizing the role of the written word in fostering peace and human connection. Hassane Yarti, who is based in Barcelona, was recognized for his distinguished literary career and his influential role in building cultural bridges between the Arab world and Europe. His work in translation and the curation of international anthologies has been pivotal in introducing contemporary Arabic voices to the European literary scene. Upon receiving the news, Yarti expressed his profound gratitude to the jury and the VerbumlandiArt Association, stating: "Receiving this award in Gorizia, a city that symbolizes the unity of European culture, is an immense honour. It reinforces my commitment to literature as a universal language that transcends borders and celebrates our shared humanity." The "City of Galateo" award is named after the Renaissance humanist Antonio de Ferraris, known as "Il Galateo," and is considered one of Italy’s most significant cultural accolades for promoting excellence in the arts and social commitment.

RE-EMBRACING THE SUN - The new autobiographical book by Angela Kosta Edited by VELIERO APS Publishing House

Re-embracing the Sun, the new autobiographical book by Angela Kosta, is a work that touches the soul with a gentle yet profound step. Published by VELIERO APS within the Ombre series, the volume is born from a delicate period in the author’s life and presents itself as a journey of awareness, memory and rebirth. With sincere and luminous writing, Angela opens her inner world, transforming pain into words and fragility into strength. Each chapter is a fragment of life that recomposes itself, a piece that returns to the reader the complexity of a human journey marked by loss, migration, motherhood, illness, faith and rebirth.

An author with an international voice

Born in Elbasan and residing in Italy since 1995, Angela Kosta is a prominent figure in the international literary landscape. Journalist, translator, essayist, literary critic and publisher, she has published 36 books in numerous languages and her works have been translated into 45 idioms. Her cultural activity has led her to collaborate with magazines, academies and institutions in Europe, Asia and America, receiving prestigious recognitions and appointments. Her voice is one that crosses borders, cultures and generations. A book born from silence and returning to light. Re-embracing the Sun recounts a period of profound darkness: depression, experienced as a shadow that enters on tiptoe and envelops everything. The author describes with clarity and delicacy: the loss of self, illness, the grief for her brother, the death of her mother, migration, the empty home, restlessness, fragility that becomes truth. But she also tells what saves: her children, her grandchildren, faith, writing memory, the hope that returns. It is a book that does not ask for pity: it asks for listening. And in return, it offers a testimony of courage.

The images: evocative digital portraits

One of the most precious features of this edition is the presence of evocative digital portraits, created specifically to accompany the most intense chapters. Not simple illustrations, but symbolic images that visually represent the author’s emotions, amplifying the reading and offering the reader an immersive dimension. This care is the result of the meticulous work of the publishing house VELIERO APS, led by its president Francesca Gallello Gabriel Italo Nel Gómez, who dedicates artisanal attention to every work: if a book has value, the care dedicated to it must have value as well.

Interview with Angela Kosta:

– In the book you describe depression as “a dark shadow that enters on tiptoe.” When did you realize that your rebirth had begun?

When I saw a small light at the end of the tunnel. It wasn’t a sudden miracle, but a glimmer. The reduction of medication, the return to reading, the simple gesture of a magazine arriving punctually… these were the first signs that something was changing.

– Your children and grandchildren are central presences. What role did they play in your recovery?

They were my anchor. My children are the light that never goes out, my grandchildren the smile that breaks the silence. In them I found the strength to continue living.

– The loss of your brother and your mother are two deep wounds. How do they live today in your memory?

They are wounds that do not close, but become part of you. My brother is a memory that accompanies me, my mother a voice that remains. They continue to live in my gestures, in my thoughts, in my way of loving.

– Writing appears as a return to life. What does it represent for you today?

 

It is salvation. It is the place where I can transform pain into words and fragility into strength. Writing allowed me to find myself again.

– Is there a message you wish to leave to readers?

That even in the deepest darkness there is a light. Sometimes it is small, almost invisible, but it exists. And it is worth searching for.

RE- EMBRACING THE SUN is available in all Italian bookstores and in Amazon available on Amazon in three editions:

Kindle, Paperback, Hardcover

As the publisher, I wish to thank Angela Kosta for entrusting VELIERO APS with such an intense and luminous work. Her story is not just a book: it is an emotional legacy, a gesture of love that crosses time. VELIERO APS is proud to welcome this title into its catalogue and to accompany the author in this new chapter of her journey.

By Francesca Gallello Gabriel Italo Nel Gómez Publisher – VELIERO APS

Kota Honours Poet Dr. Shailesh Gupta ‘Veer’: Tributes Flow for His Modern Doha Legacy

In Kota, Rajasthan, on Tuesday, a ceremony filled with literary dignity and creative fervor honored renowned poet Dr. Shailesh Gupta 'Veer' with the 'Saraswat Samman'. Skillfully convened by Dr. Nalin, the event presented a powerful example of the beautiful synergy between poetry and culture. Presiding over the ceremony, Dr. Giri Girivar remarked in his address that Dr. Shailesh Gupta 'Veer's' compositions are enriched with sensitivity, social realism, and profound expressions of human values, leaving a lasting impact on readers' minds. On this occasion, Dr. Nalin praised his literary contributions, stating that his role in strengthening and enriching contemporary Hindi literature—particularly the Doha movement—is remarkably significant. The program was effectively and engagingly compered by the sharp wit of satire maestro Rameshwar Sharma 'Ramu Bhaiya', who especially highlighted Dr. Shailesh Gupta 'Veer's' literary dedication, widespread prestige, and international recognition. 

The highlight of the second session was the poetry recital, where Dr. Nalin, Dr. Giri Girivar, Bhagwati Prasad Gautam, Rameshwar Sharma 'Ramu Bhaiya', Vishnu Sharma 'Harihar', Dr. Shailesh Gupta 'Veer', Nand Kishor Sharma 'Anmol', Yogiraj Yogi, Dr. Krishna Kumari 'Kamsin', Radheshyam Sharma, and several other litterateurs enthralled the audience with their powerful poetry recitations, moving them deeply.

NIHFW Hosts Full-Day Online Hindi Workshop, Experts Stress Language’s Role in Healthcare Outreach

A full-day online Hindi workshop was organized at the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW), New Delhi, in compliance with the Government of India's Official Language Implementation Policy. The workshop featured Professor Vandana Jha from the Centre of Indian Languages, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Dr. Nagendra Sharma, Hindi Officer, Inter-University Accelerator Centre, as the chief guest speakers.

Professor V.K. Tiwari, Director, NIHFW, welcomed the participants and inaugurated the workshop. Professor Vandana Jha emphasized the importance of Hindi in achieving the vision of a developed India, stating that real development is possible only through languages. She highlighted the need for Hindi text materials in the medical field and stressed that health-related schemes can be effective only when people are informed in their own language.

In the second session, Dr. Nagendra Sharma discussed official correspondence and provided practical examples of note-taking and drafting. The workshop was attended by faculty members, research officers, administrative and technical officers, and other staff members of NIHFW. Professor Ankur Yadav proposed a vote of thanks, and Dr. Ganesh Shankar Srivastava, Officer-in-Charge, Hindi, coordinated the program.

Clamor of Autumn, a Poem by Rafia Bukhari

Besides a few spring days,

Autumn prevailed around,

Within a hustling bustling haze,

There arose an unusual sound.

Evening with its sealed lips,

Tapped on the closed door,

Stillness tightened its grip,

The thunder rumbled more.

Three were intimate friends,

Setting sun, birds, and she,

They created new trends,

They followed a bumble bee.

- Rafia Bukhari

Pakistan

Email: srafia360@gmail.com

Rafia Bukhari is a distinguished English-language poetess, translator, and researcher from Larkana, Sindh, Pakistan, whose literary voice has emerged as a powerful embodiment of pain, suffering, and human resilience. With a poetic style marked by emotional depth and imaginative expression, she has carved out a unique space in contemporary literature, both at home and abroad.

Her poetic journey began with the publication of her debut anthology, The Painful Payment (2021), a collection that introduced readers to her haunting portrayal of grief, longing, and inner turmoil. This was followed by A Flight of Broken Wings (2023), which further cemented her reputation as a poetess capable of weaving complex emotional landscapes with lyrical grace. Her work often explores the unseen dimensions of suffering, while also engaging with metaphysical and spiritual themes — elements that echo the rich mystical traditions of South Asian literature. Shortly after its publication, her first book The Painful Payment was also translated in her mother tongue Sindhi.

Though primarily celebrated for her rich imaginative poetry, Rafia Bukhari has also made significant contributions to literary translation. Her 2025 publication, Reflection, presents English translations of selected Sindhi short stories, offering global audiences access to regional narratives and cultural insights that are often overlooked in mainstream literary discourse. Through this work, she bridges linguistic and cultural gaps, affirming her role not just as a poetess, but as a cultural mediator.

Rafia’s literary work has been featured in a variety of national and international literary journals and anthologies, where critics and readers alike have praised the sensitivity and intensity of her voice. Over time, she has come to be recognized as a "poetess of pain and suffering" — a title that speaks to her ability to articulate the complexities of human emotion with rare sincerity and skill.

Beyond her creative pursuits, Rafia Bukhari is also an accomplished academic. She is currently conducting an in-depth research project focused on the English translations of Shah –jo-Risalo, the seminal poetic work of the revered 18th-century Sufi saint and poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Her research seeks to explore the intricacies of translating spiritual and mystical thought across languages and cultures, further demonstrating her dedication to the preservation and reinterpretation of South Asian literary heritage.

Rafia Bukhari stands today as a multifaceted literary figure — a poetess, translator, and scholar — whose work continues to resonate with a wide and diverse readership. Through her commitment to exploring the human condition in its many forms, she contributes meaningfully to the evolving landscape of English literature in Pakistan and beyond.

Universal values spontaneously connect - By Dr. Hc Maria Elena Ramirez

"Universal values spontaneously connect with the essence of human quality for a quality of life rooted in peace as the inherent value of human beings"

By Dr. Hc Maria Elena Ramirez

The human feeling of peace is a universal value rooted in loyalty, justice, and freedom, fused with three great and harmonious superpowers that flow through our veins: empathy, compassion, and humility. Without this union, our essence stagnates, becomes blocked, and our human qualities become destabilized. That is why they are essential.

Let us remember that we must always be loyal if we desire justice and freedom; to carry peace from the soul as a divine gift, aware of universal values and a culture of peace based on profound ethics, with the goal of eradicating all forms of war. Sometimes, we feel powerless when we witness injustice, but it is not good to be filled with hatred, as it distorts and destabilizes our peace. Feeling is part of growth. The pacifist is resilient, enduring circumstances that shape their spirit.

Empathy, compassion, and humility, as values that transform a culture of peace, are essential for facing any circumstance in life. We are imperfect human beings, learning every day, like a diamond whose light shines naturally. We are living torches, embodying universal values as we tirelessly strive for justice and freedom.

Universality encompasses all these values that spring from the soul, such as the compassion we feel when we raise our voices for human rights. Empathy, compassion, and humility are intrinsically linked; it is our duty. If humanity embraces these values, we will sow seeds that will germinate for a prosperous and lasting peace, challenging war in all its forms: it is a constant battle.

Change arises from the most sublime. The little things in life teach us to value and be grateful, so that we never lose our human empathy, our compassion for others, and the humility that springs from the soul. Personal excellence embodies the dream of peace, climbing mountains to reach the light that lies beyond. Universal values spontaneously connect with the essence of human quality, leading to a quality of life rooted in peace as an inherent value of humankind.

My torch remains lit.

- Dr. Hc Maria Elena Ramirez/Venezuela 

ANGELA KOSTA AND CHANEL BASHHYSA, OF ARBËRESH HERITAGE, WIN THE “DIVINELY WOMAN” INTERNATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD AT THE ITALIAN SENATE

On March 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM, the prestigious Sala Zuccari of the Italian Senate hosted the third edition of the International Excellence Award “Divinamente Donna,” organized by the VerbumlandiArt APS Association.

Among the distinguished women recognized from diverse fields—art, literature, culture, journalism, entrepreneurship, and contemporary society—the International Excellence Award for Culture was presented to renowned international cultural promoter, translator, and writer Angela Kosta. She was honored with the following citation:

"For her outstanding cultural and literary contributions, capable of building bridges across peoples, languages, and diverse sensibilities, in the spirit of dialogue and peace… Poet, writer, journalist, and tireless cultural promoter, Angela Kosta has given words an international dimension, transforming them into a tool for unity and awareness. Her profound and refined literary work addresses universal themes such as identity, exile, human dignity, and women’s condition, giving voice and light to contemporary female experiences. Through her cultural initiatives and collaborations with international artistic institutions, she has elevated culture as a creative force for dialogue, respect, and collective growth. For the coherence of her career, the quality of her work, and for making culture a means of emancipation and intercultural exchange, she represents an authoritative example of intellectual excellence and human sensitivity."

The award was also presented to ten-year-old Albanian author Chanel Bashhysa for her debut book, “Michelle and Her Princess Dream,” which is gaining remarkable popularity in Italian bookstores. Her citation reads:

"For her sensitivity and extraordinary creativity at such a young age, transforming imagination into a story that inspires and captivates. In 'Michelle and Her Princess Dream,' Chanel Bashhysa, at just ten years old, delivers a delicate and radiant tale, where desire is not only fantasy but also the drive for growth, courage, and self-confidence. Through the purity of a child’s perspective, she reminds us that every girl can be the princess of her own destiny—not by a crown, but through the strength of heart and the beauty of values. By giving voice to the magic of childhood, inspiring other girls to believe in their dreams, and proving that talent knows no age when fueled by genuine passion, she emerges as a promising new voice in literature and a symbol of hope for the future."

In her acceptance speech, Angela Kosta thanked the VerbumlandiArt APS Association, its President Regina Resta, and the Honorary Scientific Committee:

"This award carries responsibility and encourages me even more—not only to promote, but also to continue building cultural bridges even where I have not yet reached, so that the Albanian language, literature, and voice are recognized across the most distant countries and continents. This honor is for all of us—not just Albanian women, but everyone contributing to contemporary art and culture, both in our country and throughout the diaspora."

The 2026 Jury composition underscores the prestige of the Divinamente Donna Award, celebrated for its dedication to literary and artistic excellence, scientific research, social engagement, and the promotion of women’s voices worldwide. To ensure authority, diversity of vision, and the highest quality in selected works, the extraordinary Jury included prominent cultural figures from Italy and abroad, with Angela Kosta serving as the representative for the Foreign Authors category.

Official Language Workshop Held at Gargi College

Renowned Author Dr. Ganesh Shankar Shrivastava Delivers Keynote Address

New Delhi: Gargi College, University of Delhi, hosted a workshop on "India Government's Official Language Policy and Use of Hindi in Administration" at its Siri Fort Road campus. The event featured Dr. Ganesh Shankar Shrivastava, a distinguished Hindi author, poet, and former editor of the Rajyasabha Secretariat, Indian Parliament, as the chief guest and keynote speaker.

Professor Vandana Luthra, Principal of Gargi College, presided over the program, which was coordinated by Dr. Shweta Mishra. In her opening address, Professor Luthra welcomed Dr. Shrivastava and emphasized the importance of continuing to work in Hindi.

Dr. Shrivastava stressed that using Hindi in official capacities is a constitutional duty for Union employees and advocated for the use of simple and intelligible Hindi in government work. Faculty members, administrative and technical officers, and students attended the workshop. Dr. Veena Sharma proposed a vote of thanks, and Dr. Bina Negi conducted the program.

49th Annual Day Celebrated at the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare

New Delhi, 9 March 2026: The National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW), an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, celebrated its 49th Annual Day on Monday at the NIHFW Auditorium in Munirka, New Delhi. The event highlighted the institute’s contributions to strengthening public health systems, capacity building, and research in health and family welfare.

The function was graced by Shri PratapraoJadhav, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, and Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services,Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, served as the Guest of Honour.

The programme commenced with the arrival of dignitaries, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and an invocation, followed by a green welcome and felicitation of the guests by Dr. Sunil Vilasrao Gitte, Director, NIHFW. In his Welcome Address and presentation of the Annual Report, Dr. Gitte highlighted the institute’s key achievements over the past year, including advancements in public health training, research initiatives, and collaborations aimed at strengthening the country’s health systems.

During the event, the institute’s annual publications, “Dharna”, the HPPI Journal, and “Brochure of Placement Cell”, were formally released by the dignitaries. Awards were also presented to outstanding employees, students, and sports achievers in recognition of their dedication and excellence.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister Shri PratapraoJadhavji emphasized the importance of strengthening public health institutions and highlighted the role of NIHFW in building skilled health professionals and supporting national health programmes. He said that we are expanding the digital health infrastructure under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. We are strengthening primary health services through Health and Wellness Centres. We are also expanding immunization efforts, introducing new vaccines, and making disease surveillance systems more effective.

Dr. Sunita Sharma, Directorate of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also appreciated the institute’s continued contribution to public health research, training, and policy support for the Government of India.He said that the institute has played an important role in strengthening the capacity of India’s health workforce and in the effective implementation of national health programmes.

The celebration also featured cultural performances by students, reflecting the vibrant academic environment of the institute.

The Annual Day celebration reaffirmed NIHFW’s commitment to advancing public health education, research, and policy support, with the aim of improving healthcare delivery and population health across the country.Dean of the Institute, Prof. V. K. Tiwari, delivered the vote of thanks to all the distinguished guests and attendees. The programme was compered by Dr. Geetanjaly and Dr. Ganesh Shankar Srivastava.

IMPOSSIBLE LOVE, A POEM BY PROF. LJILJANA SAMARDŽIĆ

They've never seen each other.

Physically worlds apart,

They loved with their souls,

First tenderly, then passionately,

As if they had lived together,

Yearning for one another for years...!

When the tides of life drew them near,

They gave up on the meeting.

Why?

Who could ever know!?

There was also the fear

That their deep love of souls,

In a reality such as this,

Would not survive.

They were disappointed and angry 

with themselves,

With the world they live in,

Powerless to change anything,

Aware that our lives are governed

By world rulers and powers.

Then, all communication

between them ceased.

They tried to forget each other,

But they didn't succeed.

Constantly in each other's thoughts,

Aware of past mistakes,

Mending themselves,

Maturing through the hurdles,

They reconnected once more,

Confessing their love anew,

Yet still, they haven’t met...!

They knew a meeting,

After all these years,

Would only be a confirmation

That their love is real,

Undying and eternal...

And what then?

World War III is beginning,

They can't get out of the own skin.

They can only love each other

With their souls,

As they have all this time.

If they live long enough,

Maybe they'll meet one day...!

-Prof. Ljiljana Samardžić

Novi Sad, Serbia 🇷🇸

[Poet/Prof. Ljiljana Samardžić]

SHORT REVIEW OF THE POEM-

"IMPOSSIBLE LOVE" by Prof. Ljiljana Samardžić is a poignant exploration of love bound by distance and circumstance. The poem's sparse, evocative lines capture the ache of soulmates separated by worlds, yet fused in spirit. It begins tenderly, swells passionately, and reflects life's unpredictable tides where proximity teases reunion, only for fear and external forces to intervene. The central question—what if meeting shatters the ethereal bond?—echoes existential dread, amplified by rage against forces beyond control. The narrative builds emotional depth without melodrama: passion, severance, forgetting, and renewed confession. Samardžić's imagery of souls yearning amid chaos elevates personal longing to universal tragedy. Her free verse flows with raw authenticity, infusing quiet resilience. The open-ended hope lingers, affirming love's transcendence over flesh and fate. A haunting meditation on impossibility, it resonates deeply in our divided world, proving true connection defies borders and bombs.

-Dr. Shailesh Gupta Veer 

(Editor of The Fatehpur Resolution)

Fatehpur, UP, India

[Reviewer/Dr. Shailesh Gupta Veer]