New Delhi, Feb 24: Renowned scholar and poet Govind Chandra Pande has been selected for the 'Saraswati Samman' award insituted by the K K Birla foundation, for his collection of poems titled, 'Bhagirathi'. This is the first time that a Sanskrit work has been chosen for the award. Professor Pande, former vice-chancellor of the Allahabad and Rajasthan Universities, is one of the leading historians and philosophers of the country. 'Boudh Dharm Ke Vikas Ka Itihas', lectures on Jainism' and 'foundation of Indian culture and civilisation' are among many of his works which deserve a special mention. Four anthologies of his poetry have been published in Hindi. These are 'Agni Beej' Kshana Lakshana', 'Hansika' and 'Jaya'. Among his philosphical treatise are 'Aposiddhi' and 'Mulya Mimansa'. The 'Bhagirathi' is a collection of 250 poems divided into seven thematic parts: Loka, Kala, Vasantanal, Bhagirathi, Shatdalam, Dakshinapathe Jaisingh and Pratyagibimb. In this remarkable work, the poet's mature mind responds to the beauty in nature and tenderness in human relationship with a unique elegance. It has been chosen after consideration of works published in 18 Indian languages during the period 1993-2002. The award comprises a cash award of Rs five lakh and a citation.
Bureau Report