The Newz Radar
Mandi: Renowned writer Murari Sharma, from Mandi, the cultural capital of Himachal Pradesh, recently unveiled his latest literary masterpiece “Havāon kā Rukh” at the International Book Fair.
This collection of short stories offers readers a captivating journey through the intricate tapestry of human emotions, artfully woven against the backdrop of the Himalayan landscape.
Sharma’s storytelling prowess shines through in each of the 10 stories featured in the collection. From the poignant portrayal of “Master Dinanath’s Diary,” capturing the despair of lockdown-induced isolation, to the tragic tale of “Jalpaash,” which delves into the fatal consequences of modern obsession with technology, every narrative leaves an indelible mark on the reader’s psyche.
One of the highlights of the collection is “The Cry of Silence,” a timeless love story rooted in the rich folklore of the region. Through this narrative, Sharma skillfully brings to life the subtle nuances of traditional folk songs and customs, offering readers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Himalayan communities.
In “Havāon kā Rukh,” Sharma masterfully captures the essence of mountain life, depicting the serene beauty and underlying melancholy of the hills. Through the eyes of retired Subedar Jaswant Singh in the titular story, readers are transported to the heart of the village, where timeless tales intertwine with the rhythms of nature.
Each story in the collection serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and spirit of the mountain people, navigating life’s challenges with grace and fortitude. With its evocative prose and profound insights, “Havāon kā Rukh” stands as a testament to Sharma’s literary prowess and Mandi’s rich cultural heritage.
As readers immerse themselves in the pages of “Havāon kā Rukh,” they are transported to a world where the lines between reality and fiction blur, and the human experience unfolds in all its complexity and beauty. In a world inundated with noise and chaos, Sharma’s stories offer a quiet refuge, inviting readers to pause, reflect, and connect with the essence of life itself.
This is Murari Sharma’s fifth story collection. Before this, “Patthar Pighalte Nahin,” “Banmooth,” “Pahad Par Dhoop,” and “Dhol Ki Thap” have been published and have also gained popularity.
The “Banmooth” story collection has received the state-level literature award from the Himachal Pradesh Sahitya Akademi! The story “Fegde Ka Phool” is being taught in the syllabus of Himachal Pradesh University, and three students at Central University Dharamshala are doing PhD research on Murari Sharma’s stories. Additionally, there have been theatrical adaptations of many stories across the country.
“Havāon kā Rukh” is not merely a collection of stories; it is a literary journey that transcends time and space, inviting readers to explore the depths of the human soul and the timeless beauty of the Himalayas.
