my uttarakhand news Bureau
Dehradun, 9 Jan: The Doon Library and Research Centre this evening organised a programme to mark the birth centenary of noted environmentalist Sunderlal Bahuguna, during which his book B’aagi Tehri’ (reprinted edition) was formally released followed by an in-depth discussion on its contents. A significant number of academicians, environmentalists, journalists and social activists were present on the occasion, who reflected on Bahuguna’s life, thought and legacy.
The speakers at the programme included Professor at Doon University, Prof Harsh Dobhal, Prof Pragya Pathak from Meerut University, Vice-Chancellor of Swami Rama University Dr Rajendra Dobhal, journalist and son of Sunderlal Bahuguna Rajiv Nayan Bahuguna, independent journalist, Vijay Jardhari, activist Anoop Nautiyal and journalist Rahul Kotiyal. The proceedings of the programme were conducted by social historian Yogesh Dhasmana.
While paying tributes, the speakers recalled Sunderlal Bahuguna’s lifelong contribution to grassroots environmental conservation and described his Sarvodaya-based ideology as deeply significant for society. They highlighted his commitment to social justice, ecological balance and people-centric development, noting that his thoughts continue to inspire movements even today.
Speaking on Baagi Tehri, the speakers said the book offers a vivid portrayal of the socio-political environment during the Tehri monarchy and the freedom movement. They noted that it contains meaningful references to the political movements of Tehri, the history of student activism, the 1942 rebellion, the sacrifice of Sridev Suman, the Dang Chaura farmers’ movement, the devastation of Saklana, the clarion call for struggle in Tehri, and the merger of Tehri Garhwal, among several other significant events of that period.
Providing information about the reprinted edition of Baagi Tehri, Madhu Pathak said that she had come across several old diaries belonging to her father, and select details from those diaries have also been incorporated into the book to enrich its historical narrative.
During the programme, Jan Kavi Atul Sharma shared his personal experiences associated with Sunderlal Bahuguna and also recited his song “Ab Nadiyon Par Sankat Hai, Saare Gaon Ikattha Hon”, which was warmly received by the audience. At the beginning of the event, Chandrashekhar Tiwari, Programme Officer of the Doon Library and Research Centre, extended a cordial welcome to all those present in the auditorium.
Among those present on the occasion included senior academician BC Pathak, educationist BP Maithani, social activist Pawan Lal Chand, theatre personality Prerna Raturi, social worker Beena Dangwal, senior journalist Prem Pancholi, writer and social activist Surendra Sajwan, educationist Sundar Singh Bisht, DK Kandpal, senior citizen and social thinker Jaiprakash Khankariyal, litterateur Arun Kumar Asafal, social worker Kusum Rawat, senior academic HC Purohit, social activist Shailendra Semwal, educationist Yogendra Singh Negi, cultural activist Jagdish Babla, young social activist Sameer Raturi and student representative Ira Chauhan.
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