Chandigarh
6 June 2022
DIVYA AZAD
The land of bountiful harvest, a myriad culture and a benevolent heart, Punjab entails an array of substantial stories that are worth telling! And the same translates in celebrated writer and storyteller, Yuvika Grewal’s latest literary endeavour titled ‘Short Stories from Punjab’ that was released at Chandigarh Press Club here today.
The book was released by the Chief Guest, Dr Sumita Misra, IAS, Chairperson Chandigarh Literary Society. The Guests of Honour were Mr Vivek Atray (Ex-IAS, Vice Chairperson CLS, Author), Mr Ajaypal Singh Brar (Author), Mr. Affan Yesvi (Director Rhyvers Press).
Mr. Vivek Atray complimented the writing skills of Ms. Grewal and wished the book a grand success. Mr Brar mentioned some incidents about the village life in Punjab. Mr Yesvi emphasized the significance of the storytelling culture in our society. He appreciated the author for coming out with this book which would act as a window into Punjabi culture.
“This book comprises twelve intricately woven tales that are set against the incredible milieu of rural Punjab. The collection evokes pathos, which moves the reader to examine the sensitivities and vulnerabilities of the characters,” shared Grewal.
“While keeping pain and agony as the recurring motif, I have made a modest attempt to empathise with the susceptible side of humans. Together, the varied themes in this book expose the subtle and major flaws of the social arrangement and the societal setup,” she further added.
The stories featured in this book inspect Punjab across its different timelines of the past. The vivid village scenes take the readers to the landscape of rustic Punjab, pleasantly so close to the characters and their unique lifestyles. Whereas, the lucid characterisation of the people of all ages brings to fore their quirks, desires, and cravings; thereby establishing a telepathic connection with them and their lives.
Crafted with part imagination, these stories are sure to teleport the reader to a languid and slow-paced world, away from the hustle-bustle of everyday life.
In spirit, this book is a collection of love stories wherein each story pulsates with a different form of love, longings, and obsessions. Through the flow of events and actions, every character in the book reaches a personal understanding and a new awakening.
“These stories take us through the dilemma of existentialism and disillusionment, thereby appealing to the heart and mind, in equal measure. Thus, each story is potent enough for the reader to remember, long after it is read,” smiled Grewal while concluding.
Published by Rhyvers Press, New Delhi, Short Stories from Punjab promises to be a good read for people of all age groups. It is available for sale on Amazon and Flipkart and will soon be available in offline stores as well.
The Keynote Speakers Dr Swairaj Sandhu (Author, Film actor) and Ms Sonia Chauhan (Author, Lawyer) gave speeches about how the book carries the essence of rural Punjab. They also read out some excerpts from the book.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sumita Misra appreciated Ms Grewal for penning down beautiful stories which carry the essence of Punjab. Dr. Misra acknowledged the support of publisher Rhyvers Press for providing a platform to budding writers of the region. She in her speech emphasised on exploring the art of writing and also urged the new writers to do more disciplined writing.
