Appreciation & Awards

Books are windows to the the world

A strong belief of Dr. Suresh Dalal, on which was laid the foundation of 'Image Publications' established by him in 1995. A popular Gujarati poet, profile writer and editor, renowned orator and well know columnist of Chitralekha and Janmabhumi - Pravasi Dr. Dalal seems to be a man at, ease with the world at large and 'the world within himself.

Image Publications is a 'no profit no loss' organisation, the main objective being to promote Gujarati literature through cultural programmes and other activities. In the process, they aim to take Gujarati book culture to those who are away from their native place but not from their mother-tongue.

The programmes organised by the group are free for the public. Those too get over within an hour's time. "The idea is involvement of the lowest common denominator. They would not be able to spend a large amount on such things even if they are genuinely interested," explains Dr. Dalal. The events are so jam packed that people have sat on the stairs and aisle space to attend, but not gone back for lack of space. From launch of books and poetry reading to experimental theatre, thev've organised it all. But one thing remains common: they have to be related to a publication of the group.

"Image is not a one man's caravan," quips Dr. Dalal, "I'm backed by my colleagues and staff members." Image has evolved a unique scheme for spreading book culture with the task of enriching the libraries of Gujarat. The image Book Culture Trust has donated books worth about Rs. 69 lakh to over 6100 libraries in the last five years. The group has approached philanthropic Industry Housed and individuals to for donations. Their programmes too are sponsored that is how they can manage to organise them.

For the older generation, the programmes amount to a meaningful evening, as they find solace in literature However, Dr. Dalal would like more youngsters to attend the functions. He holds the parents responsible if the children are not conversant with their mother toungue. "It is fir then to take an initiative" The Children should first listen to the language and understand its sound, music and force. Then may me they can progress to reading it. People have sub-consciously created an allergy for literature." He doesn't see language as a barries to enjoying poetry, and aptly quotes T.S. Elliot "genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood."