Daily Current Affairs : 13-October-2023
In a momentous event in the realm of Indian literature, the acclaimed Tamil writer, Sivasankari, was honored with the prestigious ‘Saraswati Samman’ in 2022. This esteemed accolade was bestowed upon her in recognition of her remarkable memoir titled ‘Surya Vamsam.’ This essay delves into the life and achievements of Ms. Sivasankari, shedding light on her significant contributions to the literary world and the significance of the Saraswati Samman in Indian literature.
Sivasankari: A Literary Luminary
Born in the year 1942, Sivasankari’s literary journey has spanned over five decades, illuminating the world of readers with her profound storytelling. Her literary repertoire is awe-inspiring, comprising an impressive collection of 36 novels, 48 novelettes, 150 short stories, five travelogues, seven collections of essays, and three biographies. One of her most enduring contributions to Indian literature is the monumental four-volume work titled ‘Knit India Through Literature,’ a compendium that encapsulates the essence of Indian literary traditions.
The Prestigious Saraswati Samman
The ‘Saraswati Samman,’ established by the KK Birla Foundation, stands as a testament to literary excellence in India. This distinguished award not only recognizes exceptional literary works but also serves as a beacon, guiding readers to the gems of Indian literature. The honor comes in the form of a plaque, a citation, and a cash prize amounting to ₹15 lakh.
Significance and Selection Process
The significance of the Saraswati Samman reverberates through its rigorous selection process. This process involves three tiers of meticulous evaluation, culminating in a final decision made by the Chayan Parishad, currently under the able guidance of former Supreme Court judge, Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri. The award celebrates outstanding literary works in 22 Indian languages, covering a decade of literary brilliance.
In essence, the Saraswati Samman stands as one of the highest recognitions in the vast landscape of Indian literature, honoring writers who have enriched the literary heritage of the nation.
Other Literary Awards by the KK Birla Foundation
Apart from the Saraswati Samman, the KK Birla Foundation has instituted other notable literary awards, namely the ‘Vyas Samman’ and the ‘Bihari Puraskar.’ These awards, akin to the Saraswati Samman, recognize and celebrate exceptional literary achievements, fostering a culture of literary excellence in India.
Important Points:
- Sivasankari’s Literary Achievements:
- Born in 1942, Sivasankari boasts a literary career spanning over five decades.
- Authored 36 novels, 48 novelettes, 150 short stories, five travelogues, seven collections of essays, and three biographies.
- Noteworthy work includes the monumental four-volume series ‘Knit India Through Literature.’
- ‘Surya Vamsam’ and Saraswati Samman:
- Awarded the ‘Saraswati Samman’ in 2022 for her memoir ‘Surya Vamsam.’
- Saraswati Samman is presented annually by the KK Birla Foundation.
- The award includes a plaque, a citation, and a cash prize of ₹15 lakh.
- Significance of Saraswati Samman:
- Recognizes outstanding literary works in 22 Indian languages over the last 10 years.
- One of the highest honors in Indian literature.
- Selection process involves a rigorous three-tier evaluation and a final decision by Chayan Parishad, led by Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri.
- KK Birla Foundation Awards:
- Besides Saraswati Samman, the foundation also bestows the ‘Vyas Samman’ and ‘Bihari Puraskar.’
- These awards celebrate exceptional literary achievements in India.
- Legacy of Indian Literature:
- Saraswati Samman signifies the power of words and storytelling in shaping culture and history.
- Sivasankari’s work serves as a reflection of the nation’s cultural heritage.
- The awards inspire writers and readers, preserving the essence of literary brilliance in the country.
Why In News
In 2022, Tamil writer Sivasankari was honored with the prestigious ‘Saraswati Samman’ for her captivating book of memoirs, Surya Vamsam, a poignant narrative that beautifully captures the essence of her life experiences and cultural heritage.
MCQs about Saraswati Samman 2022
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What is the primary reason Sivasankari was honored with the Saraswati Samman 2022?
A) For her outstanding contributions to Indian cinema
B) For her remarkable memoir titled ‘Surya Vamsam’
C) For her achievements in social activism
D) For her scientific research in environmental studies
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What distinguishes the Saraswati Samman from other literary awards?
A) It is given for exceptional culinary writing
B) It recognizes outstanding literary works in 22 Indian languages over the last 10 years
C) It is exclusively for poets
D) It is awarded only to writers under the age of 30
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Who heads the Chayan Parishad, the final decision-making body for the Saraswati Samman selection process?
A) Former Prime Minister of India
B) Former President of India
C) Former Supreme Court judge, Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri
D) Current Chief Justice of India
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Apart from the Saraswati Samman, which other awards are instituted by the KK Birla Foundation?
A) Nobel Prize in Literature
B) Vyas Samman and Bihari Puraskar
C) Booker Prize
D) Pulitzer Prize for Fiction
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