Avoiding the Politics of Hatred, Embracing Humanity Through Fraternity: Prof. Subhash Ware at 7th World Fraternity Poetry Festival

Pune: “Some attempted to politicize Hindu-Muslim hatred in the wake of the Pahalgam incident, but the common people and the people of Kashmir thwarted that ploy. At a time when society is being fragmented by casteism, economic disparity, and reservation issues, we must connect people through empathy and the spirit of fraternity,” said senior socialist thinker Prof. Subhash Ware. He was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 7th World Fraternity Poetry Festival, held to mark Fraternity Day.

The event was jointly organized by the Vishwabandhuta Sahitya Parishad, Rayat Shikshan Sanstha’s Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar College in Aundh, and Kashay Publications. It took place at S.M. Joshi Auditorium, Navi Peth, Pune, and witnessed a gathering of prominent literary personalities and social thinkers.

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A Call to Uplift Human Values Through Fraternity

Prof. Ware emphasized the relevance of planting the seeds of fraternity and equality in society. “The guiding principle of any true movement is ‘Sow the thought, and action will grow’. If we wish to bring about positive, sustainable change, we must stay passionately committed to our goals. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had once expressed concern in the Constituent Assembly about the lack of fraternity and equality in society. Today, through efforts like those of the Bandhuta Parivar, we are witnessing a movement to connect humans to humans,” he stated.

He also expressed concern over the increasing attempts to demonize Muslims. “After ‘Operation Sindoor’, the real culprits are still at large. To build a strong society, we must turn to books and self-reflection. Even within the Muslim community, reforms and awareness are necessary to nurture better citizens,” he added.

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Not Just Poetry, But a Message to Society

The poetry festival was presided over by renowned Marathi ghazal poet Siraj Shikalgar, who used his presidential address to highlight the poet’s role in society. “A poet voices the agony of society through verse. Words have the power to inspire transformation. Marathi literature is a reflection of its time, and though it must be understood in context, it should be written using standardized, respectful language. The increasing distortion of Marathi under the influence of foreign tongues is a threat to its purity,” he warned.

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Literary Contributions Unveiled

On the occasion, two significant literary works were released — Siraj Shikalgar’s “Ghazal Prakash” and a thought-provoking book titled “Bharat: Vishwabandhuteche Tirthakshetra” (India: The Pilgrimage of Universal Fraternity). These works underscore the transformative power of poetry and literature in today’s socio-political context.

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Honoring Voices of Fraternity

To celebrate literary excellence and commitment to the cause of social unity, several poets from across Maharashtra and beyond were felicitated with the Bandhuta Kavyapratibha Puraskar. Awardees included Arun Puranik (Pune), Prabhakar Shelke (Jalna), Raju Athawale (Akola), Palavi Patange (Mumbai), Tukaram Kamble (Nanded), Sarla Kapse (Wardha), Rajshree Marathe (Hyderabad), Rajesh Nagulwar (Wardha), Manisha Gore (Solapur), Hridaymanav Ashok (Pune), and Pratibha Vibhute (Pune).

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Fraternity Is the Soul of Humanity: Prakash Rokde

Veteran activist and Bandhutacharya Prakash Rokde reflected on the long journey of the fraternity movement. “In these 50 years, many with hearts full of love have supported this cause. There’s satisfaction in knowing we’ve upheld humanity. In today’s conflict-ridden world, the teachings of Buddha and the values of fraternity are more crucial than ever,” he stated.

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Women Leading the Way

The event also had an impressive female presence. Prof. Bharati Jadhav delivered the welcome address, Dr. Arun Andhale presented the introductory remarks, poet Sangeeta Zinzurke conducted the program, and Prof. Chandrakant Wankhede proposed the vote of thanks.

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Fraternity as the Foundation of a Just Society

The 7th World Fraternity Poetry Festival not only celebrated poetic brilliance but also reinforced the idea that true unity comes from empathy, mutual respect, and cultural understanding. In an era where divisive narratives often dominate, events like this serve as powerful reminders of the core values enshrined in India’s Constitution — liberty, equality, and above all, fraternity.