Mahakavi Neeraj.
A grand cultural evening, âKarvan Geeton Ka⦠Neeraj', was organised at Rang Sharda Auditorium in Mumbai to mark the eighth death anniversary of legendary poet-lyricist and Padma Bhushan awardee Mahakavi Gopaldas âNeeraj'.
The programme was jointly organised by the Mahakavi Gopaldas Neeraj Foundation Trust and Bharat Express News Network, bringing together eminent personalities from the fields of literature, music and media.
The event's Patron, Upendrra Rai, Chairman, Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Bharat Express News Network, delivered an emotional address, sharing his deep personal association with Mahakavi Neeraj. His heartfelt remarks received a standing ovation and prolonged applause from the packed auditorium.
"I have not come here as a guest. I am a part of this family, and I consider myself its guardian," said CMD Upendrra Rai.
Recalling his long-standing association with the Neeraj family, CMD Upendrra Rai said that Neeraj's sons, Shashank and Mrigank, have worked alongside him since 2010, strengthening a relationship built on mutual respect and shared values.
Sharing memories of his first meeting with the legendary poet, CMD Upendrra Rai recalled receiving the Bharosa Patrakar Samman from Mahakavi Neeraj during a poetry gathering in Indore on February 11, 2010. Renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar was also honoured at the same event.
CMD Upendrra Rai also narrated an anecdote from a later meeting when Mahakavi Neeraj visited his office in a wheelchair. Curious about philosopher Osho's frequent references to the poet, CMD Upendrra Rai asked about their relationship.
According to CMD Upendrra Rai, Neeraj smiled and replied:
"Osho was my closest friend, and no one loved me more deeply than he did."
CMD Upendrra Rai also shared Neeraj's admiration for Osho's extraordinary memory and intellectual brilliance.
Reflecting on his professional journey, CMD Upendrra Rai recalled a lesson from his mentor, veteran journalist Uday Shankar.
"Never try to sell your own face. Create new faces instead," he said, describing the advice as a guiding principle throughout his career.
During his address, CMD Upendrra Rai highlighted Neeraj's contribution of more than 150 timeless songs to Hindi cinema and recited the poet's celebrated lines:
"Chhip-Chhip Ashru Bahane Waalon! Moti Vyarth Lutane Waalon!
Kuch Sapnon Ke Mar Jaane Se, Jeevan Nahin Mara Karta Haiâ¦"
The audience joined in paying tribute to the legendary poet, whose literary works and film songs continue to inspire generations.
Born on January 4, 1925, in Puravali village of Uttar Pradesh's Etawah district, Mahakavi Gopaldas âNeeraj' passed away on July 19, 2018. He received both the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contribution to literature. Over his distinguished career, he wrote more than 150 iconic Hindi film songs and collaborated with legendary composers including S D Burman, Shankar-Jaikishan, Laxmikant-Pyarelal and Jaidev.
The programme concluded with musical performances celebrating Neeraj's poetry and songs, reaffirming that his words, music and philosophy continue to live on in the hearts of millions.
