Patna: A grand celebration marking the birth anniversary of the eminent Hindi writer Phanishwar Nath Renu was held at Premchand Rangshala in Patna on Tuesday. Organised jointly by the Bihar government’s Department of Art, Culture and Youth and the Bihar Sangeet Natak Academy, the event featured literary discussions, tributes, and a theatrical performance honouring the writer’s legacy.
The ceremony commenced with Bihar’s Art, Culture and Youth Minister, Motilal Prasad, paying homage to Renu by garlanding his portrait. He then formally inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp. In his address, Prasad highlighted Renu’s profound literary contributions, describing his works as vivid portrayals of rural India.
“Renu’s writings amplified the voices of the marginalised. He was not just a writer but also a revolutionary,” said Prasad, recalling the author’s involvement in the student movement, the JP movement, and the struggle against Nepal’s Rana regime. “He even returned the Padma Shri in protest against the lathi charge on students. While he is no longer among us, his literary creations remain an enduring legacy.”
A discussion titled ‘Renu’s Creativity in Hindi Literature’ featured former Bihar Legislative Council member Prem Kumar Mani, who described Renu as a towering figure in world literature. “Remembering Renu is an act of pride. He was an organised writer, deliberate in his speech and actions. His unique reporting from the Vidhan Sabha for Dinman remains unparalleled,” he said.
Literary critic Surendra Narayan Yadav noted that Renu’s storytelling had an immediate and lasting impact on readers. “His literature captivates at first glance. He was a thinker, philosopher, and an astute observer of society.”
Dr Vinod Kumar Mangalam emphasised Renu’s ability to encapsulate the socio-political fabric of his time. “A great writer understands the country, its era, and circumstances. Renu embodied this brilliance.”
Offering a personal perspective, Renu’s daughter, Navneet, shared insights into his everyday life. “People know him as a writer, but to me, he was a father. He was fond of food, loved eating on banana leaves, and played the role of both father and mother in our lives,” she said.
The discussion extensively covered Renu’s seminal works, including Maila Anchal, Parti Parikatha, and Teesri Kasam.
The evening concluded with a theatrical adaptation of Renu’s renowned story Panchlight, directed by Punya Prakash and performed by Dastak Natya Sanstha. The play, depicting the simplicity and emotional depth of rural life, was well received by the audience.
Key performances included Rashmi Rani as Munri, Prince Suryavanshi as Godhan, Rahul Kumar as Sarpanch, and Vidushi Ratnam as Kaki. The production team featured music direction by Chandan Ugna, lighting design by Vinay and Sparsh, and costume design by Vidushi and Rashmi.
