On the 19th of August, we went to DELNET, which is located in the
calm and beautiful JNU campus, for a learning experience of a lifetime brought
to us by the much celebrated Poetry Society of India and the two very
knowledgeable facilitators Ms. Sanjula Sharma a freelance journalist, writer
and poet who conducts workshops called Happy Minds and Ms. Mandira Ghosh who is
an honorary member of the Society and a celebrated haiku writer and published
poet.
The day started off with a group photograph of the participants of
all the schools. Then the rules of the competition were told to us and our
teachers Ms. Susan and Mr. Gaurav encouraged us to do our best. Post all the
motivational conversation the competition began with four visual prompts, each
to be comprehended figuratively followed by a poem rhyme or free-verse written
in the hour allotted.
After the competition, we were given time for lunch followed by an
hour and a half long workshop by the facilitators asking us to read more to
write better and explaining all 8 of the 57 recognized forms of poetry. There
was also a screening of a riveting Ruskin Bond film. We also got an opportunity
to share /recite some of our poems before the gathering. Many students,
including a couple from our school, went up on stage.
Finally, the winners were announced and the awards were
distributed. Unfortunately, our school did not get any. I am looking forward to
next year’s competition. I hope to get at least a couple of awards for my
school.
