Dharamsala writer shines in prestigious Hindi anthology

It is a moment of great pride for any writer to be featured among the nation’s most distinguished litterateurs. Chandrarekha Dadwal, a renowned Hindi scholar-writer from Dharamsala, Kangra district, has achieved this honour. Her latest book, a collection of 25 compelling stories, was released alongside works of legendary Hindi authors like Prem Chand, Ramakant Srivastava, Mahesh Darpan, Shankar, Hariyash Rai, Narmadeshwar, Sushma Munindra and Gaurinath.

Speaking to The Tribune, Dadwal expressed her gratitude: “I feel humbled to be placed among celebrated authors who have made significant contributions to Hindi literature. This recognition inspires me to continue capturing human emotions and societal concerns through my writing.”

The book release was an initiative of Antika Prakashan, which selected works from 10 notable Hindi writers for its new anthology series, Pratinidhi Kahaniyon Ki Nayee Shrinkala: Pachhis Kahania. Seven books, including Dadwal’s, were launched in the first phase.

Celebrated writer and critic Abdul Vishmillah praised the collection, stating, “These 25 stories are true masterpieces — deeply thought-provoking and reflective of human experiences.”

The prestigious event was attended by several renowned literary figures, including Janaki Prasad Sharma, Mahesh Darpan, Gaurinath, Shankar, Manoj Pandey, and Ajay Kumar Sinha. The books are now available in leading bookstores and online platforms.

Born in Dharamsala, Chandrarekha Dadwal is a former Head of the Hindi Department at Government College Dharamsala. Over the years, she has made remarkable contributions to poetry, stories, novels, essays and ghazals. Some of her notable works include Jaroorat Bhar Suvidha (poetry collection), Sivne Ughadti Hui and Roshani Ke Baabjood (story collections), Samay Mere Anurup Hua and Aag (Novels), and Akkhar-Akkhar Jugnu (Himachali Poetry). She has also translated Urdu ghazals into Himachali and written books on folk culture.