Poetry Appreciation Workshop
To celebrate World Poetry Day, the University Library System at Ahmedabad University hosted a heartfelt and enriching workshop titled "Whispers in Words: A Journey to Poetry". Held on March 26, 2025, the session welcomed 12 enthusiastic participants into an intimate and creative space where poetry took centre stage not just as literature but as personal expression.
Leading the workshop were Professor Chirag Trivedi and Professor Jalaj Singh, both passionate poets and faculty members who brought warmth, wisdom, and a deep love for language into the room. Professor Jalaj began the afternoon with a thoughtful look at the art of translating poetry into English. His insights sparked conversation about how much more language holds beyond words, rhythm, feeling, and cultural depth.
Then, Professor Chirag introduced a Gujarati poem and walked the group through its structure and soul. Even for those unfamiliar with the language, his explanation made it clear: poetry speaks to something universal in all of us.
After a short tea break at 4:00 PM, the session turned interactive. Everyone was invited to respond to a few reflective prompts thoughts that soon blossomed into original poems. With gentle guidance from the professors, many participants found themselves writing lines they hadn’t expected, expressing emotions and ideas in fresh, poetic ways. Some even read their pieces aloud, filling the room with raw honesty and shared inspiration.
The workshop wrapped up with an appreciation circle, where a handful of standout poems were recognised for their depth and creativity. But more than awards, it was the spirit of participation and expression that defined the day.
Whispers in Words was more than just a workshop it was a celebration of poetry’s quiet power. Everyone left feeling a little more connected to their inner writer, and a lot more inspired to keep exploring their poetic voice.