The Madan Mohan Malviya Auditorium at Hansraj College, University of Delhi,
came alive with cultural pride and scholarly enthusiasm as the Literary Society
of Hansraj College, in collaboration with the Bougainvillea Art Foundation,
hosted the grand launch of Dr. Kaynat Kazi’s monumental works on the
monasteries of Bodhgaya.
The event marked the unveiling of two exquisitely crafted coffee table
books —
"The Monasteries of Bodhgaya: Abode of Cultural Amalgamation of South
Asia" (English) and
"Bodhgaya ke Vihaar: Dakshin Ashiyaee Deshon ki Vividh Sanskrti ke
Vaahak" (Hindi).
A Gathering of Eminent Minds
The evening was graced by an array of distinguished personalities.
Philanthropist and celebrated author Mrs. Sudha Murty officially
unveiled the books, with Mrs. Vanathi Srinivasan chairing the session. Dr.
Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of the Indira Gandhi National Centre
for the Arts (IGNCA), attended as Guest of Honour, while renowned archaeologist
and Padma awardee Mr. KK Mohammed enriched the audience with his
insights on the importance of cultural documentation.
Professor (Dr.) Rama, Principal of Hansraj College, extended a warm
welcome to all dignitaries, and the program was seamlessly anchored by Dr.
Prabhansu Ojha, Assistant Professor, Hindi Department.
Books That Bridge Borders
Dr. Kazi’s works are the result of meticulous cultural documentation at 41
monasteries in Bodhgaya. They offer readers not only a visual and textual
journey through these sacred spaces but also a deeper understanding of South
Asia’s shared cultural heritage.
A core philosophy of the project is accessibility — both books are
available in English and Hindi, and free e-book downloads are offered
through the Bougainvillea Art Foundation website.
Mrs. Sudha Murty lauded the effort, saying:
“These books beautifully capture the soul of Bodhgaya’s monasteries,
weaving a narrative that transcends borders and unites South Asia’s diverse
cultural heritage. Dr. Kazi’s work is not just a literary accomplishment but a
valuable resource that opens windows to our shared history for students,
scholars, and culture enthusiasts alike.”
Cultural Conversations
The launch featured an engaging discussion led by Mr. KK Mohammed on
the role of cultural documentation in shaping national identity. Dr.
Sachchidanand Joshi further emphasized how institutions can help preserve
cultural narratives and foster research.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Kazi shared:
“Documenting Bodhgaya’s monasteries has been a profound experience,
uncovering stories of unity, diversity, and resilience in their walls. These
books are my humble attempt to preserve these cultural gems and make them
accessible to all, proving that our history belongs not to a few but to
everyone who seeks to learn and grow from it.”
The launch of Monasteries of Bodhgaya was more than a literary event
— it was a celebration of heritage, accessibility, and the enduring power of
cultural storytelling.
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