The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : Poetry has a major role in making mind cultured, says Governor

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Apr 04, 2006

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Poetry has a major role in making mind cultured, says Governor

Staff Reporter

Collection of poems by former Supreme Court judge S. Mohan released

BOOK RELEASE: Governor Surjit Singh Barnala releasing a book of poems by former Supreme Court judge S. Mohan (right), in Chennai on Monday. The Chief Justice of Madras High Court A.P. Shah (left), receives the first copy. — Photo: R. Ragu

CHENNAI: Poetry and music have a major role to play in making the mind cultured, Governor Surjit Singh Barnala said on Monday.

Releasing a book of poems, `Yu Hsi-Many Splendoured Gem,' penned by the former Supreme Court judge, S. Mohan, he said: "Poetry has a soothing effect on the minds of the readers. It appeals to the heart ... does not have national barriers."

Mr. Barnala said man could never be balanced or harmonious unless his emotions were trained, developed and sublimated. "So the function of the art is to train our emotional nature," he said, stressing the need to develop a rational, ethical and spiritual state of mind.

As president of the World Academy of Arts and Culture Mr. Mohan had carved a niche for himself in poetry. "A versatile personality — for him poetry comes naturally. His poems are a real delight to read," the Governor said.

Noting that Mr. Mohan had poured his heart and soul in admiration of his friend (Yu Hsi), he said spontaneity and simplicity marked the poetic composition. "His verses have a tone of sincerity. He has a powerful urge for expression."

Chief Justice of Madras High Court Ajit Prakash Shah, who received the first copy, said poetry was the first love of Mr. Mohan. The new collection of his poems reflected his "personality, authenticity and originality."

Media baron B. Sivanthi Adityan said that besides being a highly respected judge, Mr. Mohan was a brilliant orator and well known for his wise and well-reasoned judgments.

G. Manilal, president, World Peace Council, which organised the function, and vice-president B. Shivkumar offered felicitations.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Mohan said poetry, the finest form of expression, helped him in delivering judgments.

The inspiration for his new collection was his multi-faceted Taiwanese friend, whom he met four years ago in Seoul, South Korea.

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