En Lit Award
When I applied for the EN Lit Award for Thulir's Stroll, I submitted the book in the Poetry category. The book is a collection of narrative poems that readers can sing along to while taking a stroll through the hills.
After submitting my application, I simply carried on with my work and honestly forgot about it. I wasn't actively thinking about the award at all. Then, one day, I received a phone call informing me that Thulir's Stroll had been selected and that I would need to travel to Pune to receive the award.
I was speechless with happiness. I knew immediately that, no matter what, I had to make the trip. This would be my very first book award.
It was a hot day in Pune, but the atmosphere inside the bookstore was filled with energy and enthusiasm. Everyone was attentive, engaged, and genuinely invested in celebrating children's literature. When I finally received the award in the Poetry category, it felt incredibly special.
The experience also made me realize something surprising: very few people seem to be writing poetry for children anymore. I find that strange because children often learn best through rhythm, sound, repetition, and rhyme. Poetry has a unique ability to make language memorable and joyful.
I sincerely hope that the art of writing poetry for children is not lost, and that more writers choose to explore this wonderful form.
My heartfelt thanks to Ms. Vrushali and all the jury members for recognizing the merit of Thulir's Stroll. Their encouragement means a great deal to me.
Overall, it was a successful trip, a memorable experience, and a milestone that I will always cherish.
