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– Kalpna Singh-Chitnis Awarded at the 30th Poseidonia–Paestum International Poetry Prize in Italy. Paestum, Italy — May 20, 2025 — Renowned Indian-American poet, filmmaker, and literary activist Kalpna Singh-Chitnis has been awarded First Prize (Foreign Poets Section) at the prestigious 30th Poseidonia–Paestum International Poetry Prize
The Hryhorii Kochur Literary Award is a major state honor in Ukraine that celebrates excellence in poetic translation and has traditionally been awarded for translations of classical works into Ukrainian. This is the first time a work by a contemporary poet, translated by a fellow poet and soldier, has received this recognition—a significant milestone for both the author and the translator.
On the eve of its 77th Independence Day, the world looks towards India, filled with wonder and high hopes. Meanwhile, India looks toward the world with hopeful anticipation, yearning for prosperity and global peace, particularly after the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Like any other country, India has its own unique challenges, problems, and ways of handling them, often not in line with Western approval. India’s distinct cultural identity, along with its social and political ideologies, does not conform to the template of Western culture and socio-political norms. Yet, India, since its independence on August 15th, 1947, has stood firm, akin to the Himalayas, regardless of the approval or disapproval of nations that feel challenged by its strong presence not only in South Asia but on the world stage.
by Kalpna Singh-Chitnis The lives of indigenous people, their land, culture, identity, and virtue mattered, yet they didn’t. October 12th is celebrated as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in America, previously called Columbus Day. I am happy to see this change and awakening in America. We can’t sweep our history under the…
It is startling to see how China, the greatest violator of human rights in Tibet, Magnolia, Hong Kong, Gilgit Baltistan; the torturer of Uyghur Muslims, democracy and peace activists; the supporter of terrorism with Pakistan in Kashmir; the destroyer of India’s relationship with Nepal, Iran, and the protagonist of imperialism doesn’t concern many people in India or in the USA.
I hope we can make stricter laws for criminals who perform such barbaric acts against women and in many cases, against men and children also. We need to provide sex education and encourage women, men and children to learn martial arts to protect themselves and defend others in crisis. Politicians and administration must be held accountable for not taking actions against such crimes. All sex offenders must be registered, and their records must be made public for people to be aware of their backgrounds. The families also have an obligation to provide moral education to their children and teach them their social responsibilities. Some people may need psychotherapy, which is still a stigma in our society. But we must be open to provide support and transform the lives of people who can still use our help to stop this menace.
