Literary legacy of Himachal's Chandrarekha Dhadwal gets scholarly recognition

The literary contributions of eminent local author Chandrarekha Dhadwal are set to receive academic attention with the commencement of a doctoral research project at the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP), Dharamsala. The study aims to critically examine her extensive body of work and its relevance in the context of India’s rich knowledge traditions.

Asha Sharma, Assistant Professor at Government College, Shahpur, is undertaking the research under the supervision of Prof Chandrakant Singh of the CUHP. Titled “A Study of the Complete Literary Works of Chandrarekha Dhadwal from the Perspective of the Indian Knowledge System,” the project seeks to analyse her writings through the lens of Indian philosophy, culture and literary thought.

According to the university, the research will offer a comprehensive evaluation of Chandrarekha’s published works while exploring how her writings reflect and reinforce the values embedded in India’s traditional knowledge systems. The study is also expected to highlight Himachal Pradesh’s vibrant literary heritage and strengthen academic documentation of regional literature.

Chandrarehka is a former Head of the Hindi Department at Government College, Dharamsala, and is widely recognised for her contributions to poetry, fiction, novels, essays and ghazals. Her acclaimed works include the poetry collection Jaroorat Bhar Suvidha; story collections Sivne Ughadti Hui and Roshani Ke Baabjood; novels Samay Mere Anurup Hua and Aag; and the Himachali poetry collection Akkhar-Akkhar Jugnu. She has also translated Urdu ghazals into Himachali and authored books on the state’s folk culture.

Academicians believe the research will not only preserve Chandrarekha’s literary legacy but also bring wider scholarly recognition to Himachal Pradesh’s rich literary traditions and the enduring relevance of regional voices in contemporary Indian literature.