Professor Archana R Singh launches her anthology, Kavita To Kahi Nahi, in a unique manner

Gurnaaz Kaur

Chandigarh-based The Narrators Performing Arts Society brought to life a poem by Archana R Singh, professor, School of Communication Studies, Panjab University, at the launch of her poetry anthology Kavita To Kahi Nahi.

Beginning with a four-minute performance, where one saw a new style of storytelling, as Archana recited her poem, Kabhi Vachal Kabhi Maun, Jas K Shan, a known dance instructor from the city, enacted it. Nisha Luthra, the brainchild behind the presentation, was the director. This act, a mix of storytelling, dance and recitation, was screened, as Archana R Singh unveiled her book. Writing is therapeutic for this professor and this collection of 62 poems in six chapters had a soothing effect on her. “It is clear from the book’s title Kavita Toh Kahi Nahi – the collection does not fit into the traditional genres of poetry. The poems are dedicated to women who have to work under so many constraints.”

Unique concept

Adds Nisha Luthra, co-founder of The Narrators Performing Arts Society and the director, “We have tried to usher in a new visual performance art initiative — performed poetry in the region.”

Jas K Shan, an alumna of School of Communication Studies, PU, could relate to each word in the poem, just as any woman would. “It’s a matter of pride for me to enact the performed poetry that’s written by my mentor and professor from the university, Dr Archana R Singh,” she says.

While an offline event was held at Dance Dacha Elite Studio in Sector 9, a virtual book launch was also held.