Remembering Nissim Ezekiel: A Centennial Tribute in Verse and Memory

In this reflective episode, poet and editor Vinita Agrawal takes us through Nissim Ezekiel, Poet & Father: A Centennial Celebration (1924–2024)—a rich and intimate anthology she curated to mark the hundredth birth anniversary of one of India’s most iconic modern writers.

Vinita shares how the anthology came together through heartfelt tributes, critical essays, and deeply personal recollections from writers, friends, and family. She offers insight into Nissim Ezekiel’s enduring influence on Indian English poetry, his complex legacy, and the quieter aspects of his life that shaped his work.

We explore how editing this collection became both a literary and emotional journey for Vinita, especially as she balanced editorial responsibilities with deep respect for the poet’s memory and the voices of those who knew him best. She also reflects on the ethics of literary curation and the significance of honoring a life through the written word.

This episode is a moving tribute to a towering figure in Indian literature—and a celebration of those who keep such legacies alive through care, memory, and the power of collective storytelling. A must-listen for lovers of poetry, literary history, and the quiet force of editorial vision.

Chapters

00:00 Highlights

01:12 Introduction to Vinita Agarwal and Her Work

02:35 Inspiration Behind 'Nizim Ezekiel: Poet and Father'

04:09 Editing a Diverse Collection of Voices

05:05 Kavita's Perspective on Her Father

06:47 Nisim Ezekiel: The Poet and His Craft

09:23 Contributions from Renowned Poets

11:53 Nisim as a Mentor to Young Poets

14:24 Vinita's Book 'Eartha' and Its Themes

16:03 The Role of Poetry in Environmental Awareness

18:44 Upcoming Projects and Future Works

19:22 Reading from 'Eartha'

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Mohua Chinappa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohua-chinappa/

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Vinita Agrawal

https://www.instagram.com/vinitaagrawal18/

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Book Link

Nissim Ezekiel, Poet & Father: A Centennial Celebration (1924-2024)

https://www.amazon.in/Nissim-Ezekiel-Poet-Father-Celebration/dp/191373823X

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