pg. no BLUE C A S H M E R E Spilled Ink Creative Writing Society, Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi VOL. 1 | ISSUE 1
Enough Music Sometimes, when we're on a long drive, and we've talked enough and listened to enough music and stopped twice, once to eat, once to see the view, we fall into this rhythm of silence It swings back and forth between us like a rope over a lake. Maybe it's what we don't say that saves us. — Dorianne Laux
SPILLED INK ⬩ Since 2015 ⬩ Creative Writing Society रचना त्मक लेखन समि ति ٹو رائٹنگ سوسائٹی ٔی کر Blue Cashmere i.
BLUE CASHMERE Blue Cashmere is a publication of Spilled Ink – the Creative Writing Society of Dyal Singh College (M) Spilled Ink Creative Writing Society Dyal Singh College © Spilled Ink, 2023 Printed at Amit Digital Prints, New Delhi-65 All rights reserved No part of this publication may be used or reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever without written permission from the publisher or the copyright owner. ii.
We extend our deepest appreciation to our Principal, Prof. V.K. Paliwal for recognising the importance of creative expression and providing us with the platform to establish and grow Spilled Ink. Your support has been crucial to our journey. We would then like to express our utmost gratitude to Dr. Prakash Patel, our ECA Coordinator for his invaluable guidance and mentorship throughout the years. Your encouragement has been a constant source of motivation for our members. We would also like to express our gratitude to Dr. Yamini, our Convener, for her unwavering support and belief in our creative endeavours. Your wisdom and dedication to nurturing young writers have been instrumental in shaping Spilled Ink into what it is today. Further, a heartfelt thank you to Jamini, the Fine Arts Society of our college, for your continuous support and help towards the society. Your contributions for producing the Cover of our magazine and collaborating with us in the form of art have been vital to the success for Spilled Ink, and we are grateful for your commitment. Finally, to all the members of Spilled Ink, both past and present, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your creativity, passion, and active participation have made Spilled Ink the thriving community that it is today. We also want to acknowledge our previous readers for their consistent support and appreciation of our work. Your belief in our vision and your contributions have made a significant impact on our journey, and on what Spilled Ink and "Blue Cashmere" is today. Acknowledgements iii.
iv. BETWEEN THE TWO RIB CAGES, Ifrah Khalil — 39 Frigid, Ratnanshi Verma — 41 the chronicle of the undeterred, Rishika Dey — 42 The Case with Chaos and Hope, Saman Khan — 45 They Loved Incognito, Annanya Jain — 47 winged ambitions, pinioned dreams, Rishika Dey — 48 EXTREMITIES, Ratnanshi Verma — 55 Tuffy, Ayushi Shukla — 56 SEVEN MINUTES THIRTY-EIGHT SECONDS, Abhipsa Priyadarsani — 59 THE MONSTER, Ratnanshi Verma — 61 Grey, Vaibhav Singh Solanki — 64 ATTENDING AGENTS, Saman Khan — 65 Poetry of Language, Annanya Jain — 67 MY MOTHER'S HANDS, Satakshi Kaushik — 68 tacenda, Ratnanshi Verma — 69 THE POISON OF THE PAST, Saman Khan — 70 WARMTH, Ratnanshi Verma — 71 The Static of Rupert Finch, Rishika Dey — 73 It is 9720.8?. Ifrah Khalil — 74 Bou-Rani's Courtyard, Rishika Dey — 76 Chenab on Fire, Abhipsa Priyadarsani — 81 A LETTER TO AN ACHE LEFT UNDISTURBED, Saman Khan — 83 I REMEMBER, Ayushi Shukla — 85 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. Submissions From Our Readers 24. Five More Minutes, Anushka Bharadwaj — 88 25. A Second Chance is a Myth, So is a Happy Birthday, Anushka Bharadwaj — 89 26. Adulting, Anushka Bharadwaj — 90 27. PRATISHIDYA, Anushka Bharadwaj — 91 Catal ✶ Credits List ———— 1 ✶ From the Principal's Desk ———— 2 ✶ Message from the ECA Coordinator ———— 3 ✶ Message from the Convenor ———— 4 ✶ Message from the President ———— 5 ✶ Message from the Vice President ———— 6 ✶ History of Spilled Ink ———— 7 ✶ Alumni Messages ———— 11 ✶ Contributors ———— 14 ✶ Note from the Editorial Team ———— 15 ✶ Society Photograph ———— 18 ✶ Note from the Outgoing Batch ———— 19 ✶ Event Reports ———— 22 ✶ Collaborative Page ———— 35 ✶ Hall of Fame ———— 37 ✶ Shibui, English Section ———— 38 BETWEEN THE TWO RIB CAGES, Ifrah Khalil — 39 Frigid, Ratnanshi Verma — 41 the chronicle of the undeterred, Rishika Dey — 42 The Case with Chaos and Hope, Saman Khan — 45 They Loved Incognito, Annanya Jain — 47 winged ambitions, pinioned dreams, Rishika Dey — 48 EXTREMITIES, Ratnanshi Verma — 55 Tuffy, Ayushi Shukla — 56 SEVEN MINUTES THIRTY-EIGHT SECONDS, Abhipsa Priyadarsani — 59 THE MONSTER, Ratnanshi Verma — 61 Grey, Vaibhav Singh Solanki — 64 ATTENDING AGENTS, Saman Khan — 65 Poetry of Language, Annanya Jain — 67 MY MOTHER'S HANDS, Satakshi Kaushik — 68 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. ِسال ✶ لْس ,ِUrdu Section ———— 92 آزاد قفس, مبّشرہ محفوظ غزل, عمر — 93 — 94 — 95 — 96 — 97 — 98 — 99 —100 —101 —102 —103 —104 غزل, مبّشرہ محفوظ غزل, مبّشرہ محفوظ غزل, عمر ادھورا میں, لنکیش "گوتم" غزل, غزل, لنکیش "گوتم" غزل, عمر غزل, مبّشرہ محفوظ غزل, مبّشرہ محفوظ آخری شہکار, مبّشرہ محفوظ غزل, لنکیش "گوتم" Page of Emptiness 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11 12.
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Picture Courtesy Art from Pinterest Illustration from Pinterest Alliteration photographs by Xposure – the Film and Photography Society of Dyal Singh College, Delhi Dais Club Cover Art by Jamini – the Fine Arts Society of Dyal Singh College English Section Cover by Jamini – the Fine Arts Society of Dyal Singh College Other artworks by the members of Jamini – the Fine Arts Society of Dyal Singh College Submissions from our Readers Anushka Bharadwaj, Department of English Sushant, President, Literary Society, Department of English Jitendra Kumar, Vice President, Jamini – the Fine Arts Society of Dyal Singh College and Literary Society, Department of English 1
PROF. V.K. Paliwal PRINCIPAL (Officiating) “I would like to express my heartiest congratulations to Spilled Ink for for their tireless effort in curating and presenting such an exceptional publication in the form of the second issue of their Annual Magazine, Blue Cashmere that serves as a testament to the vibrant tapestry of ideas and experiences that thrive within our academic community.” As the Principal, it is always an absolute delight for me to witness the students of our college go beyond the prescribed chapter of the book, and step into the world of creativity and innovation. To watch as they walk their own path towards the fulfilment of their vision and see them succeed brings an unbridled joy only an educator would understand. Our college goes beyond the realm of classroom learning and opens the doors to a plethora of other extra-curricular activities that help the students follow their own path towards enrichment that prepares them for a future of their own independent choice. The various ECA societies functioning under the umbrella of the Arts and Culture Committee are one such effort by the management to ensure the same. Spilled Ink, the Creative Writing Society of our college has come a long way since its inception, staying afloat amidst the churning of all kinds of knowledge and standing tall and strong against the test of time. I would like to express my heartiest congratulations to Spilled Ink for for their tireless effort in curating and presenting such an exceptional publication in the form of the second issue of their Annual Magazine, Blue Cashmere that serves as a testament to the vibrant tapestry of ideas and experiences that thrive within our academic community. It is a show of dedication and hard work of our students, who have poured their hearts and souls into every page, every word, and every stroke of the pen. Their talent, passion, and unwavering commitment inspire us all. I wish for Spilled Ink the very best for the future and all the new milestones that it is yet to achieve. FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK 2
Greetings! The first time I came into contact with Spilled Ink was after becoming the Arts and Culture Coordinator. Since then, it has always been a delight for me to work with this society, so filled with talent. I remember that while deciding the theme for our college's Annual Fest, Priyadarshani '23, the members of Spilled Ink came up with many, many brilliant ideas. The way they touched upon themes which included the poor, downtrodden, the rural and marginalized, even when belonging to urban, metropolitan cities, and residing in the national capital of Delhi, moved me. They kept in mind to connect the countryside with the mainland, and talk on relevant issues such as gender justice among others. Spilled Ink is not just the creative writing society of our college, but rather the very creative think tank, full of passion and innovation. Because creative thinking and creative writing go hand in hand, and learning is an ongoing process, I insist all the members to take care and remain active throughout the session in the future as well. Working with the enthusiastic members of Spilled Ink has instilled in me a belief that these students will continue to think and talk about welfare through education, stress on one's rich culture, decolonisation, upliftment of the tribals and the downtrodden, through their work. I hope that these people will continue to inspire other people to think and feel like them, and to also inspire them to use writing as an art form as means of addressing the serious topics of the day. My best wishes and blessings to all. “Spilled Ink is not just the creative writing society of our college, but rather the very creative think tank, full of passion and innovation... Working with the enthusiastic members of Spilled Ink has instilled in me a belief that these students will continue to think and talk about welfare through education, stress on one's rich culture, decolonisation, upliftment of the tribals and the downtrodden, through their work. ” DR. Prakash Kumar Patel ECA COORDINATOR MESSAGE FROM THE ECA COORDINATOR 3
DR. Yamini Sargotra CONVENOR “Its work has always been collaborative and I was glad to figure that this year too, the team tried building a community of thinkers and writers, and not just isolated individuals.” My association with Spilled Ink started long ago, a year or two after its inception. A few like minded youngsters had got together in 2015 to build a platform enabling freedom of thought and expression, and the consequent batches have carried that spirit forward well. I remember being a judge for one of the earliest slam poetry competitions at DSC, having marvelled at the intensity and creativity of everyone involved. Every year, newer events, competitions, and forms of expression have been launched, enabling fresh writing and performing talent to present their ideas in front of interested, engaged and inspired readers and audiences. Having been the convenor twice, I can only appreciate its growth and progress. The efforts of every senior batch are applaud-worthy as they conducted workshops and individually mentored juniors and friends to take the creative work forward. Its work has always been collaborative and I was glad to figure that this year too, the team tried building a community of thinkers and writers, and not just isolated individuals. I wish all the members well and I hope their pens never desert them, and their imagination always finds new horizons. MESSAGE FROM THE CONVENOR 4
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Being elected as the members’ President and getting my chance to colour the society with my ideas and thoughts has been my single greatest honour and privilege, and for that I shall forever be indebted to the seniors who have guided and mentored me, and grateful to the current members who have stood by me, and had the *misfortune* of bearing with me. Rishika Anastasis Dey PRESIDENT There is a pang in my heart as I am sitting down to write, a duty eshewed for far too long. The crude white screen stares back at me, empty, but for a few words that still have no direction. My mind feels like a billiards table, the thoughts are numbered in pages and coloured in memories – they go here and there, some hitting the right spots, some rolling about awkwardly still, in memory of an awkward teenager who just wanted to fit in. Spilled Ink, when I joined, had been a candelabrum of flaming talent, an echelon of excellence, a simulacrum of simmering belongingness that doused me and drenched me and made me its own. The pang is gone, there is an emptiness left in its wake. It wasn’t long before I realised that along the way of playing 'President', it was no longer just a society – Spilled Ink and I had coalesced into one and the same. I have often in jest quoted to my friends, you slit my wrists, you’ll find ink, not blood. That is the impact that Spilled Ink has had on me. This little blue corner, my haven, my safe space, my home away from home – Spilled Ink, to me has been the marrow in my bones, the ossification of my skeleton, the cells in the blood coursing through my veins, the throbbing of my heart, the salt in my body, even the salt to my wounds, yet also the relieving poultice to the invisible nicks and gaping cuts. Spilled Ink, two words, three years. A reluctant nascent dream, a painstaking niggling test of patience, a responsibility of royal magnitude, a touchstone of panache, of pizzazz, shoes too big to fill in with my small feet. Spilled Ink, that has taken from my life a mouthful, chewed me apart, swallowed me whole. I have myself drunk Spilled Ink, devoured Spilled Ink, breathed Spilled Ink and lived Spilled Ink. In this second publication of our Annual Magazine, Blue Cashmere, in between the pages, in the columns and between the lines, behind a dozen Canva fonts and dissolved in .jpg, .png pictures, I am leaving behind pieces of myself for you, the reader to find like easter eggs, my one final contribution to this society that I made my home – a final ode, one last prayer, a poem that has written itself through the passage of time. My only wish for my juniors is to take care of yourself, and each other. You are what makes us Spilled Ink. Protect this little treasure, this precious cargo. It resides in all of you. Show the world, Hope yaha hai. 5
MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT This year's magazine is adorned with verses that dance across the pages, celebrating the power of language and the sheer magic of words. From heartfelt sonnets to poignant haikus, each poem is a testament to the profound emotions that can be captured and conveyed through the art of verse. Whether it be the raw vulnerability of Urdu Shayari, the vibrant imagery of Hindi poetry, or the eloquence of English sonnets, our magazine offers a poetic feast that transcends language barriers. The title 'Blue Cashmere' was chosen with great care and thoughtfulness, representing the essence of our society and the power of our written words. 'Blue Cashmere' as a title encompasses the harmonious blend of these two elements: the profound exploration of our thoughts and emotions, guided by the tranquility of blue, and the refined craftsmanship that elevates our writing to new heights, akin to the elegance of cashmere. As I sit down to write this message for our Annual Magazine, "Blue Cashmere," my heart swells with a mix of emotions. It has been an incredible journey being part of this society for the past three years, witnessing the growth of our members and the blossoming of their creativity. Today, as I reflect upon our collective accomplishments, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and an overwhelming sense of joy. Our society, Spilled Ink, is more than just a group of individuals who share a love for writing. It is a haven where dreams are nurtured, ideas are kindled, and words flow freely, giving life to thoughts and emotions that might otherwise remain unexpressed. It's the legacy that our seniors left us to take forward since its inception in 2015. Each one of the members holds a unique story, a distinct voice that adds richness to our literary tapestry. Together, we form a vibrant community, bound by our passion for the written word. This fills my heart with joy to see all the languages flourishing together, with the inception of 'The Urdu language' this year. I am very sure and proud of my juniors who will continue the legacy of Spilled Ink forward and mark our hearts with joy and pride. To our readers, I invite you to immerse yourselves in the pages of Blue Cashmere and embark on a literary journey that will take you to realms unknown. Within these pages, you will find stories that will touch your soul, poetry that will stir your emotions, and prose that will challenge your perspectives. I hope this magazine becomes a companion, a source of inspiration, and a window into the diverse minds and hearts that comprise our society. Our prose section showcases narratives that span genres, from heartwarming tales of love and friendship to thought-provoking explorations of societal issues. It is a celebration of the power of storytelling, where the written word becomes a vessel to transport readers to different worlds, allowing them to walk in the shoes of diverse characters and experience the triumphs and tribulations of the human spirit. Thank you, dear members of Spilled Ink, Creative Writing Society, for making this dream a reality. It is your passion, your dedication, and your unwavering commitment that have brought us to this momentous occasion. May our pens never run dry, and may our collective spirit continue to illuminate the world with the power of our words. In addition to the creative works of our society members, Blue Cashmere also opens its arms to the wider literary community. We have invited contributions from writers outside our society, providing a platform for them to share their unique perspectives and voices. Ifrah Khalil VICE PRESIDENT 6
The humble beginnings of the society trace back to 2015, when a group of five creative enthusiasts came together in their shared love for the written word, laying the foundation for Spilled Ink, then a platform for mutiple forms of art – painting, photography, and now creative writing. Every writer in this small group of talented people added to the social fabric each year. The society's dedication to nurturing literary talent became evident as it organized its first-ever Literary Fest, with the name Alliteration, a legacy to last for years to come. This event showcased the diverse range of writing styles and genres within the society, captivating the audience and further fueling the creative energy of the members. 2015 2016 [of icial logo of Alliteration] HISTORY OF 7
2019 Spilled Ink witnessed its evolution into a haven for writers who through infusing life into their words also watched asthey established themselvesinto a creative writing society. The society continued to organise variousliterary events writing, pushing its membersto explore different themes amd styles of writing. Spilled Ink achieved one of its biggest milestones ever. Now registered with the College's Arts and Culture Committee, it became recognised as one of the official ECA societies, thus becoming a bonafide Creative Writing Society, fully-funded by the college. Thisrecognition brought increased visibility to the society, attracting more talented individuals who were passionate about literature and writing. 2018 SPILLED INK 8
Covid-19 era brought about a number of difficult circumstances that made it challenging for the society to function. The pandemic however could not stop the writers' zeal and creativity flourished in the quarantine, inspiring the successful publication of 'The Pumpkin Project', a digital Halloween magazine. The publication showcased the resilience and adaptability of the society in the face of adversity. Spilled Ink organised its first Alumni Meeting after the completion of five cherished years. This event brought together past and present members, creating a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie. 2020 9
2021 Spilled Ink came up with its biggest creation hand out. 2022 Huge strides were taken towards diversity as Spilled Ink formally introduced the Urdu langauge and opened door to many eager writers. In a festivity of joyous passion, Spilled Ink organised Bazm-e-Sukhan: Ek Nashist, the first-ever event of its kind in celebration of the Urdu language and poetry. In addition, 'Blue Cashmere', the second iteration of Spilled Ink's Annual Magazine, has been produced with a fresh concept, featuring evocative pieces to resonate with the readers and further establish the society's reputation for literary excellence for years to come. 'प्रदक्षि णा :Finding Relevance', the first-ever edition of the Annual Magazine was published under the leadership of the President, Kshitiz and the Vice President, Sonali Mishra, marking yet another significant turning point in the society's progress. The magazine featured a collection of thought-provoking poems, captivating short stories, and insightful essays, reflecting the members' diverse perspectives and their ability to address contemporary issues. A new event called Matribhashi was introduced to commemorate the occasion of Hindi Diwas. Find the reports of all other events under the academic session of 2022-23 in the Reports Section. 10
Alumni Messages College is that part of life which sets us up for the bright future, but never forget to cherish every day, every moment with your friends, because these moments will last a lifetime. The smiles, the hard work, the disappointments, all of them form the jewels that best define you. Wear them with pride, and spill the ink of love wherever you go, whichever paths accept you, own them up and make your name in them! Good wishes and love. – Ritika Kakkar, Batch 2016 – Gagandeep Singh Vaid, Founder-Member, Batch 2016 Spilled Ink was the place where I could escape from the chaos of the world and find peace within myself. Whether it was the cozy corners that held countless conversations or the tranquil spaces that allowed me to reflect, Spilled Ink became an integral part of my journey. My college years would have been incomplete without this society and connections I made over there. 11
Alumni Messages – Aarushi Pandey, Former Vice President, Batch 2021 – Pushpika Saxena, Batch 2016 Dear Spilled Inkians It was sheer joy to be a part of a platform which we have built with our curious, creative and enthusiastic spirits back in 2016. Spilled Ink not only gave me immense love, respect but also a chance to let the writer within me breath a little. I feel grateful for having the opportunity to witness this little sapling, turning into an magnificent tree. I congratulate all the beautiful hearts who have nurtured this tree of hope and light with their ceaseless efforts. Many congratulations for having 2nd edition of 'Blue Cashmere', it's another feather on hat and many more yet to come. Love Pushpika Saxena Many congratulations to the team for the 2nd edition of Blue Cashmere! It makes me very happy to know that Spilled Ink is doing so great. When we were a part of it, it was an important part of our life. It still is, in many aspects. And the present batch of members deserve a credit for it. To see Spilled Ink flourish and evolve with time – it is joyous! It is also almost a reminder of how significant Spilled Ink still is in my life. I am really looking forward to all the write-ups, and the magazine itself. Thank you to everyone who has put their heart and soul (and ink, and pages, and storage :p) in giving life to Blue Cashmere. (It is a beautiful title by the way) I am right here for any support and love that the society ever needs. Much love, Aarushi 12
Alumni Messages – Adarsh Mishra, Batch 2022 – Kshitiz, Former President, Batch 2022 स्पि लड इंक सदा से ही भा षा के प्रेमि यों का स्था न रहा है।है गत ७ वर्षों में बहुत से रचना का र इस समि ति से जुड़े, उन्हीं में से एक मैं भी रहा । नि रंतर २ वर्षों में इस परि वा र का सचि व तत्पश्चा त अध्यक्ष हो ना मैं अपना परम् सौ भा ग्य मा नता हूँ।हूँ सदस्यों के लेखन व वकतृत्व कला में वि का स के सा थ - सा थ जी वन में आवश्यक अन्य कौ शल का गुण सहज ही सि खा देना इस समि ति की वि रली पद्धति है।है कला इश्वर का प्रदत्त अनमो ल उपहा र है,है इस उपहा र को संजो कर रखने वा ली स्पि लड इंक समि ति अंतः महा वि द्या लय व अंतरमहा वि द्या लय स्तर पर शब्द कला के प्रचा र से प्रसि द्ध हो , ऐसी ही मेरी मंगलका मना है।है Spilled Ink has been the most beautiful part of my college life. I remember joining society in the second year as a naive and shy guy who just loved writing. Spilled Ink not only gave me a platform to express myself but also carved me as a writer at each step. From the joy of writing for my first WordPress schedule, marketing for the events, finding sponsors, the adrenaline rush before Alliteration, dancing in the farewell to writing this. There were ups and downs but I have grown so much as a writer and an individual, learned so much from everyone here, received tons of love and made memories that I can never forget. With the second magazine being published I hope this society reaches greater heights. Congratulations and All the best to everyone. With love Adarsh 13
DESIGN HEAD Rishika Anastasis Dey DESIGN TEAM Editors- in -Chief Rishika Anastasis Dey, English Mubashshara Mehfooz, Urdu Ritik Raj, Hindi Editing Team Ifrah Khalil Saman Khan Satakshi Kaushik Annanya Jain Ratnanshi Verma Ayushi Shukla Riya Jain Shweta Bahutay Pranav Bhutani CONTRIBUTORS Ratnanshi Verma Advait Anand Ayushi Shukla Sushant Yadav Anjali Abhipsa Priyadarsani Ritik Raj Vaibhav Singh Solanki 14
NOTE FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM Okay so this is going to be a jumble of messy thoughts but – one of the many ideas that I have had ever since I joined the society as a fresher was to follow in the very ef icient footsteps of my seniors and create a magazine full of my own ideas. This magazine has been a dream project in the making since long before I was probably even aware. I was never sure we'd pull it of until the very last moment, until scrolling through the final PDF. It honestly feels so surreal and I know I am going to continue living in this daze of disbelief until the very pages of this publication crease and crinkle in my hands. But also, this is bloody amazing. We did it! Rishika Dey The release of "Blue Cashmere" marks a milestone in our journey. It is a culmination of countless hours of dedication, perseverance, and collaboration. Every word, every sentence, and every carefully crafted piece has been meticulously woven together to create a tapestry of artistry. It represents the essence of our society, capturing the spirit of exploration, experimentation, and the sheer delight of being lost in the world of literature. To our readers, I invite you to immerse yourselves in the pages of "Blue Cashmere" and embark on a literary journey that will take you to realms unknown. Within these pages, you will find stories that will touch your soul, poetry that will stir your emotions, and prose that will challenge your perspectives. I hope this magazine becomes a companion, a source of inspiration, and a window into the diverse minds and hearts that comprise our society. – Rishika Dey, President, (exhausted) Design Head – Ifrah Khalil, Vice President When I first joined college, what I wanted more than anything, was to have a platform where I could express myself as a writer. Spilled Ink gave me that, and so much more. It gave me a safe space where I can write and learn and grow as a writer. Along with so many people who use writing as an escape, this society has helped me grow so much as a writer. Another amazing thing that it gave me, is the experience as an editor. Reading other people's pieces as a reader and reading them as editor, knowing you can help them improve and even learn from them, are two vastly dif erent things. It was a surreal experience and I am very grateful for this society and the people that it has given me. "You can make anything by writing." – C.S. Lewis – Ratnanshi Verma 15
Spilled Ink is more than just a creative writing society. It is almost like a family where members look out for each other, no matter the dif erences. As a person keenly interested in dark academia and having a very serious outlook on life, the members of Spilled Ink have given me a space safe enough to gently unleash the utterly childish side that I have to myself. The gratitude I feel for this is inexpressible. In my second year of being here, Spilled Ink, along with providing several opportunities to explore and grow myself as a writer, also honoured me with the post of an 'editor'. I vividly remember how as a fresher, I was always in awe at having my seniors edit my pieces, adding more life to them. Bestowed with the opportunity myself, I rejoiced. It has been a process of feeling perplexed at times, all the while learning, unlearning and teaching my juniors side by side; a wonderful experience altogether. Spilled Ink is much more than a society, it’s a home to all who sit at lonely nights under the dim light of their lamps pouring down each and every emotion they have ever felt, fantasising and living through all of them in the stories they create and the poetries they narrate. It's a home to people like me who have found a new family among these once strange faces. It’s not a place where you just write, it’s a place where you express, where you read people, where you laugh and cry all equally. – Ayushi Shukla – Abhipsa Priyadarsani – Vaibhav Singh Solanki स्पि ल्ड इंकइं – रचना त्मक लेखन समि ति , दया ल सिं ह महा वि द्या लय के द्वा रा नि रंतर द्वि ती य वर्ष वा र्षि क पत्रि का का प्रका शन कि या जा रहा है।है तमा म लेखकों को धन्यवा द, प्रका शक को बधा ई एवं पा ठकों को शुभका मना एँ।एँ। – ऋति क रा ज This has been my first hand experience working with something as great as our Spilled Ink. I joined the society in December and following the footsteps of our lovely seniors, I was given this wonderful opportunity to be the part of the design team of our Annual Magazine. I learnt many things, be it being more creative, becoming a novice graphic designer, learning the functioning of the society and last but not the least, making improvements in my writings. I'd like to thank the current panel for giving me this opportunity to define and refine my talents, my second year seniors for guiding through various ups and downs and lastly, my loving batchmates for being really devoted in this work. This was just the beginning, there's a lot to come and a lot of work to do but I hope the journey will be fun. 16
सहृदय अभि नंदन प्या रे पा ठकों , मेरे लि ए स्पि ल्ड इंकइं एक कुटुंब की तरह है।है मुझे महा वि द्या लय में आए हुए महज़ ६-७ मा ह ही हुए हैं,हैंपरंतु इस छो टे से वक्त में, मैं ख़ुदख़ु को जि न लो गों से सबसे नि कट मा नता हूँ,हूँवो यकी नन स्पि ल्ड इंकइं के ही सदस्य हैं।हैंसमय की इस अल्प अवधि में स्पि ल्ड इंकइं के सौ जन्य से मेरी ती न रचना एँ वर्डप्रेर्ड सप्रे एवं पो स्ट के मा ध्यम से प्रका शि त हुईं,ईं यह मेरे लि ए व्यक्ति गत रूप से हर्ष और गर्व का वि षय है।हैसा थ ही सा थ, समि ति के द्वा रा आयो जि त का र्यक्रमों के मा ध्यम से भी बहुत कुछ सी खने को मि ला । मुझे पूर्ण वि श्वा स है कि समि ति आगा मी वर्षों में सफलता के और ऊँचे शि खर पर ख़ुदख़ु को स्था पि त करेगी । हमा रा आपसी प्रेमप्रे और सद्भा व हमें हमा रे लक्ष्यों की ओर सहजता से ले जा एगा , ऐसा मेरा दृढ़ता से मा नना है।है पत्रि का प्रका शन हेतुहे तु स्पि ल्ड इंकइं परि वा र को अनंत शुभेच्छा । सभी सह लेखकों को हृदयतल से सप्रेमप्रे धन्यवा द। अशेष शुभका मना एँ।एँ। – अद्वैतआनंदनं – अंजली स्पि ल्ड इंकइं मेरे लि ए मा त्र एक सो सा इटी नहीं बल्कि एक परि वा र है।है मैं यहाँ बहुत से का बि ल लेखक-लेखि का ओं से मि ली , जि नसे मुझे बहुत कुछ सी खने को मि ल रहा है।है मेरे लि ए यह बहुत ही गौ रव का वि षय है कि मुझे हमा री वा र्षि क पत्रि का के द्वि ती य संस्करण में अपना यो गदा न देने का अवसर प्रा प्त हुआ, आशा करती हूँ स्पि ल्ड इंकइं इस तरह ही आप सब के दि लों में जगह बना ए रखेगा । बहुत बहुत शुभका मना एंँ।एंँ। महा वि द्या लय के इन दो वर्षों के सफ़र में स्पि ल्ड इंकइं से इतना लगा व हो गया है कि परी क्षा के दि नों के अला वा महा वि द्या लय आने का मेरे लि ए यह एक मा त्र वजह बन गयी है।है निः संदेह यह मेरे लि ए सो सा यटी से बढ़ कर एक परि वा र की तरह है।है इन दो वर्षों में जो भी संगी -सा थी मि ले जि तने भी अच्छे पल मि ले वह सब स्पि लड इंकइं से मि ला । एक बा र को कक्षा जा ना छो ड़ सकता हुँ पर स्पि लड इंकइं समि ति का अधि वेशन नहीं । वह मेरे लि ए सबसे सुकूनदा यक पल हो ता है,है सभी प्रका र के तना व से रा हत प्रदा न करता है।है यह स्पि लड इंकइं की वा र्षि क पत्रि का का दूसरा संस्करण है,हैजि समें मुझे हि स्सा लेने का सौ भा ग्य प्रा प्त हुआ और मैं इसके लि ए सभी परि वा र का आभा र व्यक्त करता हूँ।हूँ मैं आशा करता हूँ की आगा मी के वर्षों में भी समि ति की ऐसे ही या दों से हमा रा थैला भरता रहेगाहे गा और ऐसे ही अच्छी रचना ओं से पत्रि का के पन्नों को संजो ता रहेगाहे गा। –सुशांसु शांतशां या दव 17
First Row [L-R]: Rajveer Mishra, Sumit Kumar, Vaibhav Singh Solanki Second Row [L-R]: Shweta Bahutay, Ayushi Shukla, Nikita Singh , Mubashshara Mehfooz, Saman Khan, Rishika Dey, Ifrah Khalil, Sushant Yadav, Sameer Saifi, Ratnanshi Verma, Abhipsa Priyadarsani, Riya Jain Third Row [L-R]: Anjali, Hasrat, Umar, Ritik Raj, Lankesh Gautam, Pranav Bhutani, Advait Anand, Nandan Choubey, Yogesh Kumar Dwivedi Other members who were unfortunately missing this day: Annanya Jain and Satakshi Kaushik 1 8
N o t e f r o m t h e O u t g o i n g B a t c h Hey lovely readers, Officially we know that Spilled Ink is an authorized creative writing society of our own College, whereas unofficially, Spilled Ink is a family of young writers, but for me, more than these two, Spilled Ink is the way to my golden future, the initial steps of which have been opened for me by Spilled Ink itsel, since I have been selected in college from ECA category and since childhood I like to express my feelings with words with pen on blank paper. Therefore, if the creative writing society of Dyal Singh College had not selected me on that day, then it is possible that I would neither be studying in the Department of Geography, Dyal Singh College, nor would I be in the important responsibility of that department. So for me, Spilled Ink is more than a creative writing society i.e, a loving family and more than that i.e, a foundation for my future. We all know Today's modern life is going from busier to busiest and tension is increasing among the family and society. Therefore, to bring positivity in the society, it is necessary to build a family like the Spilled Ink family. A family that shares its joys and sorrows; sadness-happiness; tears-laughter; Not only it express feelings but it also displays those feelings literally in front of the society, so that the society can become stress-free. Keeping this link in mind, We the Spilled Ink present to our readers the second edition of the annual magazine. I would like everyone to read this and take positivity from it. My congratulations to the magazine publisher team, I have full faith that in future more such magazines will be published by the committee. Thanks – Sumit Kumar 19
Spilled Ink and it's people have always been a perfect space to provide me solace. A place where we clash over difference in opinion but without loosing love and respect for the person. I wish all the Love and Light to this happy corner for the years to come. – Mubashshara Mehfooz I cannot believe that this might be the last thing I write for Spilled Ink. In this wonderful community, words came alive, ideas flourished, and creativity knew no bounds. It is a place where we shared our stories, inspire one another, and grew as writers and people. I joined Spilled Ink as a naive kid in my 2nd year, through our society, I discovered the beauty of self-expression. This society and it's amazing members taught me to embrace vulnerability and courageously share my innermost thoughts. I learnt the strength of words to heal, inspire, and ignite change. Within the walls of our society, I found solace and support. Despite our many differences, we collaborated, supported, and encouraged one another through it all. We have laughed together, cried together, and celebrated one another's successes. Our bonds transcend the pages we write on, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I hope and pray that we may continue to write, create, and support one another. Take care of the society and more importantly take care of yourselves. Love, Satakshi – Satakshi Kaushik 20
Writing this message feels strange because it indicates the end, right here, right now. How does one bid goodbye to family, to a home that is intertwined with the fabric of your being? This is hard, very hard. But I am happy that I get to say this. Spilled Ink thank you for being so absolutely adorable and kind to me; for hosting such a creative and talented bunch of individuals whom I can always remember with a broad smile and even bigger pride. I’ll miss your warmth, all the endless fest preparations, and the magazine chatter; the wonderful opportunities, and the friends you gave me. I had an amazing time and wish all my juniors the same. All the love, Saman – Saman Khan Spilled Ink – One of the societies I admire and always will. This society was the first society I was sure about when I joined college. Being in this family made me realise and experience a lot of new things: we laughed, cried, panicked, made a mess but at the end we came together as one and made it work. The memories I made here will always be cherished and will always be a part of who I am. Today looking back at all those experiences and my first day when I joined, we together as a family have come a long way and I hope only the best for the future. I am sure there will be a lot of struggles but I am also sure that we will make it through like we always have. I also hope that everyone who is reading this note today enjoyed the magazine as much as we enjoyed compiling it. – Annanya Jain 21
S P I L L E D I N K ' S E V E N T R E P O R T S Sp i l l e d In k – t h e C r e a t i v e W r i t i n g S o c i e t y o f D y a l S i n g h C o l l e g e o r h a n i s e d s e v e r a l e v e n t s i n t h e s e s s i o n o f 2 0 2 2 - 2 3 u n d e r t h e l e a d e r s h i p a n d d i r e c t i o n o f R i s h i k a D e y ( P r e s i d e n t ) a n d I fr a h K h a l i l ( V i c e P r e s i d e n t ). Following are detailed reports of a l l t h e e v e n t s t h a t t o o k p l a c e m e n t i o n e d b e l o w i n c h r o n o l o g i c a l o r d e r. Every event was contr i b u t e d t o b y t h e e n t h u s i a s t i c i n v o l v e m e n t a n d k e e n i n p u t s b y a l l o f t h e m e m b e r s o f t h e s o c i e t y , t h u s t h e s u c c e s s o f t h e s e s s i o n i s a t t r i b u t e d t o T e a m Sp i l l e d In k. The events that took place are: मातृभाषी Auditio n s W o r d P r e s s S c h e d u l e o n t h e T h e m e 'Ha n ds' Informal Intera c t i v e W o r k s h o p B a z m - e - S u k h a n: Ek Na s h i s t A r c s & M u s i n g s W r i t i n g S e r i e s W o r d P r e s s S c h e d u l e o n 'Women's History Month' Madrigal in collaboration with the Department of English Alliteration 2023 – the Annual Fest 2 2
मा तृभा षी हिं दी हिं द की बिं दी है स्पिल्ड इंक – रचनात्मक लेखन समिति, दयाल सिंह महाविद्यालय नेहिंदी दिवस के शुभ अवसर पर “मातृभाषी” का द्वितीय संस्करण १० सितंबर २०२२ को आयोजित करवाया। इस कार्यक्रम के अंतर्गत प्रथम दिन नवोन्मेषालेखन – रचनात्मक लेखन प्रतियोगिता का आयोजन किया गया। इस प्रतियोगिता मेंकुल ६६ प्रतियोगियों नेप्रतिभाग किया। निर्णायक की भूमिका मेंमहाविद्यालय के हिंदी विभाग के डॉ. राजेश कुमार राव जी का सानिध्य प्राप्त हुआ। द्वितीय व अंतिम दिन मातृभाषी के अंतर्गत काव्यशाला – स्वरचित कविता पाठ प्रतियोगिता का आयोजन किया गया। प्रतियोगिता मेंकुल ७५ प्रतियोगियों नेप्रतिभाग किया। निर्णायक की भूमिका मेंसमिति के पूर्व सदस्य व अध्यक्ष श्री क्षितिज़ जी का मार्गदर्शन प्राप्त हुआ। रचनात्मक लेखन प्रतियोगिता नवोन्मेषालेखन मेंप्रथम स्थान अतुल कुमार श्रीवास्तव नेप्राप्त किया, द्वितीय स्थान पर अभिषेक सुमन एवं हार्दिक शर्मा रहे और इशिका सक्सेना को सांत्वना पुरस्कार प्राप्त हुआ। स्वरचित काव्य पाठ प्रतियोगिता काव्यशाला मेंप्रथम एवं द्वितीय स्थान क्रमशः तरुण मिश्रा एवं रूपल को प्राप्त हुआ। हिंदी की सार्थकता को देखतेहुए कार्यक्रम के अंत मेंसभी निर्णायकों द्वारा स्पिल्ड इंक की इस अनूठी पहल को खूब सहारा गया। अतः मातृभाषी सफलता पूर्णसंपन्न हुआ। On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Spilled Ink organised “मा तृभा षी 2.0”, in order to celebrate its shared love for the language and highlight its importance. The event was conducted on the 10th of September 2022. Various competitions such as नवो न्मेशा लेखन (Hindi Creative Writing) and का व्यशा ला (Poetry Recitation) were organised under our banner. The participants were eagerly received by the audience who left the auditorium thundering with applause. The event came to conclusion with a word from our respectable judges, and a vote of thanks. All in all, it was a successful event, and a wonderful experience for everyone present. 23
AUDITIONS 2022 Spilled Ink conducted Auditions for the academic year 2022- 23, from 14th to 17th November 2022. This year, Urdu was formally introduced into the society for the first time, so the process received even greater enthusiasm and zeal from the candidates. The first two rounds were elimination rounds, conducted on 14th and 17th November, respectively. The candidates were challenged with on-the-spot creative writing, based on written prompts for Round1 and visual prompts for Round 2. The shortlisted candidates from the first two rounds reached the Personal Interview Round, held on 17th November, in which they were interviewed on the basis of the innovative ideas ingrained within their submissions, their adoration for writing and their visions for the society. The audition process for the academic year 2022-23, thus, came to an end. 17 new talented writers were selected, out of a pool of 100 candidates: the English writers, Hindi writers and Urdu writers with astounding capabilities were welcomed into the society with open arms. नवागंतुक बच्चों के पंजीकरण पश्चात उन्हें महें हाविद्यालय की विशेषता एवम्विविधता को समझनेहेतुहे अतिरिक्त शैक्षणिक गतिविधियाँके अंतर्गत आनेवाली दयाल सिंह महाविद्यालय की एकमात्र अधिकृत रचनात्मक लेखन समिति स्पिल्ड इंक की चयन प्रक्रिया का आयोजन दिनांक 14-17 नवंबर 2022 के बीच तीन भिन्न-भिन्न चरणों में सफलतापूर्ण आयोजित किया गया। भाषा की विविधता को ध्यान में रखतेहुए सर्वप्रथम बार उर्दू को समिति में एक अधिकृत भाषा का दर्जादिया गया। अतः समिति नेअंग्रेजी व हिंदी के रचनाकारों के अलावा उर्दू के रचनाकारों के लिए भी अपने दरवाजेखोले। प्रथम चरण का आयोजन दिनांक 14 नवंबर 2022 दिन सोमवार एवं द्वितीय चरण व व्यक्तिगत साक्षात्कार का आयोजन दिनांक 17 नवंबर 2022 दिन बृहस्पतिवार को किया गया। प्रथम चरण के रूप में शाब्दिक विषय, द्वितीय चरण मेंदृश्य विषय एवं तृतीय चरण में व्यक्तिगत साक्षात्कार प्रतिभागियों के समकक्ष प्रस्तुत किए गए। सत्र 2022-23 की चयन प्रक्रिया मेंकुल 100 बच्चों नेप्रतिभाग किया जिनमेंसे महज 17 बच्चों का चयन हुआ। 24
WordPress Schedule on the theme ‘Hands’ A WordPress schedule was organised by Spilled Ink to unveil the eloquent pieces written by its members. It went on from 29th December 2022 to 3rd March 2023. The members worked enthusiastically under the theme “Hands” as writers and editors. A total of 26 pieces were published: 12 in Hindi, 11 in English and 3 in Urdu. The pieces were posted on the society's official WordPress page and promoted on Instagram and Facebook handles. The event was a success, with appreciation from readers and critics alike. ہر سال کی طرح اس سال بھی اسپلڈ انک کی جانب سے ہمارے شعراء نے ورڈپریس کے لیے اپنا کلام بھیجا۔ اس بار ورڈپریس کا عنوان تھا "ہاتھ"۔ یقین ًا ہاتھ جہاں بھر کا بوجھ اٹھاتے ہیں لیکن ایک محّبت بھرے ہاتھ کا لمس دنیا کے تمام مرحموں سے افضل ہے۔ ہاتھوں پر نظمیں اور شیر کہے گئے جس میں ہر شاعر کا اپنا پہلو تھا۔ کسی نے ظلم کرنے والے ہاتھوں کا ِذکر کیا تو کسی نے محنت کرنے والے ہاتھوں پر شیر کہے۔ ورڈپریس کا سلسلہ 29 دسمبر 2022 سے شروع ہوا اور 3 مارچ 2023 تک جاری رہا۔ اس میں نہ صرف اردو بلکہ ہندی اور انگریزی کویتائے اور تحریریں بھی پبلش کری گئیں۔ स्पि ल्ड इंक के द्वा रा सत्र २०२२-२३ के लि ए वर्डप्रेस का आयो जन कि या गया । इस संस्करण के वि षय “हस्त” पर आधा रि त थे। लेखकों की रचना त्मक कृति याँ अधि का रि क वर्डप्रेस पर प्रका शि त हुईं। कुल २६ त्रि भा षी रचना ओं में १२ हिं दी भा षी रचना ओं का प्रका शन हुआ। नवां गतुकों के लेखन व प्रका शन में उनके संपा दकों का भरपूर सहयो ग मि ला । स्पि ल्ड इंक के नि यमि त पा ठकों एवं पूर्व सदस्यों ने सभी कृति यों की ढेरों प्रशंसा की एवं समि ति को शुभका मना एँ दीं । हा थों पर हा थों का कमा ल 25
Informal Interactive Workshop Spilled Ink conducted an informal interactive workshop on the 16th of February 2023 where our members arrived beaming, wearing their newly designed society hoodies and badges. The primary motive was to get to know the recently recruited members in a better way. The subject of love was the favourite topic of conversation that day, whether it was through the recitation of original pieces, referring to famous writers' works, or just the sharing of our own experiences. The day came to a conclusion with the exchange of heartfelt handwritten notes and confessions for one another, leaving everyone with a broad smile on their face and a craving for more such informal gatherings. 26
BAZM-E-SUKHAN “Bazm-e-Sukhan: Ek Nashist”, an event celebrating Urdu Language and Poetry was organised by Spilled Ink on 21 February 2023. On the International Language Day, when the clock struck 11 AM, the event began with great enthusiasm in the college auditorium, as the President and the Vice President welcomed the Sadr-e-Mehfil of the event. Many passionate Urdu writers and scholars joined this event and recited their Nazms and Ghazals. The joyous cheers of wah wah reverberated across the room. With words of appreciation by the Sadr-e-Mehfil and the felicitation of the performers, the event came to an end. 21 فروری 2023 ،بروز منگل اسپلڈ انک کی جانب سے بزِم سخن ایک نشست کا انعقاد کیا گیا جس میں 12 شاعروں نے اپنا اپنا کلام پیش کیا۔ یہ محفل اردو زبان کے اعزاز میں رکھی گئی تھی۔ اردو زبان کو سوسائٹی میں اسی سال شامل کیا گیا ہے۔ صدارت اشتیاق احمد مصباح صاحب نے فرمائی۔ مبشرہ اور عمر ایونٹ ہیڈ رہے۔ بزِم سخن ایک بہت کامیاب محفل رہی اور ہم مستقبل میں بھی ایسی محفل سجاتے رہینگے۔ 21 फ़रवरी 2023 बरो ज़ मंगल स्पि ल्ड इंक की जा नि ब से बज़्मए-सुख़न: एक नशि स्त का इनअक़ा द कि या गया जि स मैं 12 शा यरों ने अपना अपना कला म पेश कि या । यह महफ़ि ल उर्दू ज़बा न के आग़ा ज़ में रखी गई थी । उर्दू ज़बा न को सो सा यटी में इसी सा ल शा मि ल कि या गया है।है सदा रत इश्ति या क़ अहमद मि सबा ह सा हब ने फरमा ई। मुबश्शरा और उमर इवेंटवें हेडहे रहे।हे बज़्म ए सुख़न एक नशि स्त एक बहुत का मया ब महफ़ि ल रही हम मुस्तक़बि ल में भी ऐसी महफ़ि ल सजा ते रहेंगेहेंगे। 27
Arcs & Musings सत्र २०२२-२०२३ के अन्तर्गत समिति के द्वा रा "आर्क्स एण्ड म्यूजिंग्स" नामक एक नई लघुगद्य एवं पद्य श्रृंखला का आगाज़ किया गया। चुकीं कला की आत्मा स्वतंत्रता मेंबसती है, है अतः इस श्रृंखला को विषय रहित रखा गया। इसके अंतर्गत लेखकों नेअपनी भावनाओं को बिना किसी विषय के व्यक्त किया। उर्दू, हिंदी एवं अंग्रेजी की रचनाओं का प्रकाशन समिति के आधिकारिक इंस्टाग्राम पर समयानुसार की गई। इस रचनात्मक श्रृंखला को स्पिल्ड इंक के नियमित पाठकों के द्वारा काफ़ी सराहना मिलीं। ساتھ 2022-2023 کے تحت، سمتی نے "آرکس اینڈ میوجنگز" نامک ایک نئی مختصر نثر اور شاعری سلسلے کی شروعات کی ہے۔ چونکہ کلام کی روح آزادی میں بستی ہے، لہذا اس سلسلے کو بلا موضوع رکھا گیا ہے۔ اس کے تحت لکھنے والوں نے اپنی بھاوناوں کو بغیر کسی موضوع کے ظاہر کیا۔ اردو، ہندی اور انگریزی کی تحریرات کا پبلشن سمتی کے آفیشل انسٹاگرام پر تیار کیا گیا۔ یہ رچناتمک سلسلہ سپلڈ انک کے باوقار پڑھنے والوں کی طرف سے کافی تعریف ملی۔ Spilled Ink developed a new writing series called 'Arcs and Musings', to celebrate the joy of writing and independent thought of its members. A series quoted by the President to be ‘out of theme, out of time, out of the box – from the writers of Spilled Ink.' This series received a wonderful response and wide acclaim from all readers alike. Spilled Ink honoured Women's History Month in March with a unique and heartfelt gesture. A collection of captivating articles was curated on its esteemed WordPress blog, each inspired by the theme of empowerment. The members of Spilled Ink struck a chord with the readers, who wholeheartedly appreciated the initiative. Through their eloquent prose and evocative verses, Spilled Ink beautifully honoured the remarkable contributions of women, leaving a lasting impression on their audience. स्पि ल्ड इंक के द्वा रा सत्र २०२२-२३ के मा र्च के मही ने में महि ला इति हा स मा ह के उपलक्ष्य पर वर्डप्रेस का आयो जन कि या गया । इस वर्डप्रेस के वि षय “ना री के इति हा स” पर आधा रि त थे। कई लेखकों की रचना त्मक कृति याँ अधि का रि क वर्डप्रेस पर प्रका शि त हुईं। इन त्रि भा षी रचना ओं में दो नों पुरुष तथा स्त्री रचना का रों ने अपनी रचना एँ प्रका शि त करवा ई। स्पि ल्ड इंक के पा ठकों ने सभी कृति यों की प्रशंसा करने के सा थ ही समि ति को महि ला सशक्ति करण में भा गी दा री के लि ए अनंत शुभका मना एँ दीं । نک' نے خاص اور دل سے نکلی تقریب کے ذریعے مارچ میں 'سپلڈ ِا عورتوں کے تاریخی ماہ کو اعزاز دیا۔ انہوں نے اپنے معزز ورڈپریس بلاگ پر ایک دلفریب اور دلکش تحریری مجموعہ تیار کیا، جس کا نک ہر مضمون خواتین کی توانائی کے موضوع سے متاثر تھا۔ سپلڈ ِا کے اراکین کی طاقتور تحریر اور عمدہ نظم نے پڑھنے والوں کو دل سے لگایا، جنہوں نے اس اقدام کو پوری دلچسپی سے قدر کیا۔ سپلڈ نک نے معجزہ خیز عورتوں کے قابِل تعریف کرتے ہوئے اپنے حضور پر ِا یکساں اثر چھوڑ دیا۔ WordPress Schedule on 'Women’s History Month' 28
MADRIGAL The English Literary Society, Department of English, Dyal Singh College (M) in collaboration with Spilled Ink – the Creative Writing Society of Dyal Singh College organised their annual festival – “Madrigal 2023” to celebrate their shared passion and dedication for literature on the 5th and 6th of April. In this literary festival spanning two days, a diversity of competitions were conducted such as Micro Tale, Blackout Poetry, Creative Writing, Cover Redesign, and more. Following the spectrum of the Victorian and Romantic eras, the Cosplay event acted as a merging point for dressing up and vintage aesthetics among the participants on the first day. On the second day, Slam Poetry and Treasure Hunt were the main highlights of the event. Apart from these contests, several cultural and Western dance & music performances were organised to hype the audience to another level. 29
In collaboration with Spilled Ink, the Literary Society successfully managed the following events: ✶ Expressae – the Slam Poetry Competition ✶ As It Prose – a Creative Writing Competition ✶ Weed Out – a Blackout Poetry Competition ✶ Kafkaesque – a Micro Tale Competition While the events and performances were going on, various stalls were also set up outside the college amphitheatre where people indulged themselves in shopping sprees. From the craze of Harry Stylesinspired jewellery sponsored by Earthly Beads to the mysterious tarot predictions by You Got Brains, the stalls witnessed a great footfall of both students and teachers alike. In order to avoid heat strokes, one of the major sponsors of the festival, Cof eeshala, came to the rescue. Altogether, the two-day festival brought together all the literature aficionados towards the celebration of literary culture and trends! 30
Alliteration, the highly anticipated Annual Fest of Spilled Ink – the Creative Writing Society of Dyal Singh College was organised on 30th March, 1st and 2nd April. The three-day fest hosted a total of 6 events — 2 each in the online mode, in the seminar hall, and in the college auditorium. While DAY 0, had online events, DAY 1 began with a warm welcome of our distinguished judges and audience in the college auditorium followed by the events of the day. DAY 2 followed suit and after the range of wholesome events, the fest was brought to a conclusion by a word of thanks from our Vice President Ifrah Khalil and then a final closing speech by our President Rishika Dey. ALLITERATION 2023 We hosted a creative range of events which are as follows: 31
30th March DAY 0 : NIB-O-ULLEKH Bilingual Creative Writing Competition : An online submission-based event where the participants had to choose between the English and Hindi language for their write-up and submit accordingly. DAY 0 : AASHUFTA BAYANI Urdu Creative Writing Competition : An online submission-based event where the participants had to write creative pieces using the Urdu language. 1st April DAY 1 : QUILL-EIDOSCOPE English Creative Writing Competition : This was a call for all the wordsmiths, storytellers and poets to unleash their creative writing skills to the world and shine. DAY 1 : SLAMSTERS, INC 7.0 English Slam Poetry Competition : Treating poetry as an indispensable way of understanding cultures and emotions, this provided a safe space for all the poets to be vulnerable and allow bisections of reality. 2nd April DAY 2 : SHIPSRIJAN Hindi Creative Writing Competition : The participants were given an open platform to creatively weave magic out of stories, poems, short plays and other genres. DAY 2 : LAFZ-E-MEHFIL Hindustani Poetry Recitation Competition : This was a unique conglomeration of poets who made the audience resonate with feelings of love, belonging, hopelessness and everything else you can think of. The registrations for the fest began on 26 March 2023. The raw emotions and enthusiasm shown by the performers combined with the creative brilliance of the writers, showcased their serious commitment to art which is much needed for a liberal and informed understanding of our world. This was well received by the audience and the judges alike. As a result, we are super grateful that Alliteration '23 turned out to be a grand success. The judges for the events were as follows: Nib-o-Ullekh : Nishank Kesari and Sonali Mishra Aashufta Bayani : Rehman Musvavir and Kashish Vikram Singh Quill-Eidoscope : Gagandeep Singh Vaid and Aarushi Pandey Slamsters, Inc 7.0 : Mansi Vijay and Aastha Dixit Shipsrijan : Dr. Gyanendra Kumar and Kshitiz Lafz-e-Mehfil : Amulya Mishra and Lakshya Anand The winners for the events were as follows: Nib-o-Ullekh : Manasvi Garg and Shivam Jha Aashufta Bayani : Laiba and Ayush Aavart Quill-Eidoscope : Kariha Javaid and Kasturi M Slamsters, Inc 7.0 : Aadrit Banerjee and Cheshta Vashishtha Shipsrijan : Aastha Singh and Hardik Sharma Lafz-e-Mehfil : Tarun Mishra and Ayush Aavart 32
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The Fine Arts Society of Dyal Singh College was founded in the year 2013. The founder, inspired by the renowned Bengal artist Jamini Roy and his elaborate combining of traditional Indian and Western styles in the creation of unique works, gave their special project the same name. Jamini has traced an eight yearlong and colourful path with a rank of sketching, painting in different media, graffiti, quilling, calligraphy, mandalas, rangoli and crafts among other things. With more than fifty accolades to its name in the current academic year itself, Jamini has given remarkable performances at various esteemed institutions. The Annual Fest of Jamini, Artism is a wonderful time of the year where resident artists whip out their pens and brushes for a gala time filled with laughter and paint all over their clothes, as well as organise a plethora of fun competitions for college students pan India. J A M I N I
COMPLIMENTS TO the Fine Arts Society of the session 2022-23 JAMINI
HALL OF FAME MUBASHSHARA MEHFOOZ Mehfil-e-Qasida, Shyam Lal College — FIRST POSITION LANKESH 'GAUTAM' Mehfil-e-Qasida, Shyam Lal College — SECOND POSITION RIYA JAIN Magic Ink, StoryMirror — THIRD POSITION 37
shibui adjective ⬩ refined understatement in all manner of artistic representation; draws upon silent, unobtrusive qualities
BETWEEN THE TWO RIBCAGES To "He Who Must Not Be Named" – Ifrah Khalil A week to your departure now, I could not write anything to you. I am yet to accept how far away you are from me. In a different time zone. I am yet to fathom the fact that you are gone and won't be here for the next 24 months. I am unable to understand and accept the fact that you are not here, lying next to me. For me, I still call you out for having the pre-dawn meal and post-dusk meal with me, while you ask me for more cucumbers and carrots, more curd, and water to keep both of us hydrated. And then in the evening, we go out to buy groceries, all in bulk – and then, unintentionally, we reach our favorite place – the Gol Gappa place – coming from that busy lane, you find your momos and fries, while I stop you from buying those – you make that cute disappointed face, which melts my heart and I let you buy. And then we walk hand in hand together, talking about our future, looking at each flat in Amar Colony – thinking about buying one someday when we earn sufficient money. We reach home, almost home – you eat those peas from the vegetable vendor and he doesn't ask you anything in return. And then, both of us make up our minds to walk 30 stairs to reach our flat – I know it's quite hard, but we do it together. Once we are home, you take your place in the room, using your phone constantly. I keep stopping you from doing so and ask you for conversations. You know, I woke you up this morning, you didn't want to wake up so I had to eat alone, while I didn't like eating. I slept back, just next to you. And then we woke up in the morning and I jumped on you, asking you for teddy bears and small stuffed animals. Do you see? You are not gone from here. I see you here every moment. While I am writing this, you are sitting in the room, fighting with the mosquitos even if the All Out is plugged in. But you still do. After I finish writing this, I will be back in the room and you will look at me ask – me to watch Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi playing. You will ask me to watch the Cover drive of Babar Azam which I don't understand. But you like it, so I will watch it next to you. Then you will sleep facing your back to me. But I will drag you so that you look into me while sleeping. 39
Do you see? You are just here, it's not my illusion. It's the reality. I see you here. Not only me, but all the people – the vegetable vendor who keeps your share of peas, that fruit vendor who keeps your share of bananas and the Gol Gappe Bhaya who keeps asking me, ‘When will “Bhaya” come back?’ I make him realize that you never left the place. Do you see? You are just here, in my breath, sitting inside my room, complaining that I never keep the room clean and that I always talk too much. I will be making all good things for you today, nice food, a clean room, and pretty things. Will you wait for me inside the room? So that this time, I will not go to sleep crying and hugging my pillow? From all the unwritten letters 05/04/2023 Over time, whenever an airplane would fly above us, we would soon think of us being on it one day. Like I did the previous year in Malviya Nagar. Do you remember our long walks in the nearby park? And then when we shifted to Lajpat Nagar, you would ask me for directions on which your flight would take off. Fast forward to now, I couldn't ask you the same. But today, I saw this plane flying in the sky. I remembered once you said, I would text you in which direction I went in. Which direction did you go? Away from my heart, and my life? Close to me and my breath? Just like this, every small thing you ever said is reverberating in my mind when you are away. Do you know, when I grow tired of sitting alone, I talk to you, I ask you to sit beside me so that I stretch my legs on your thighs, and make different faces to irritate you? And when I am full of all the conversations with you, I stand up and call you. Do you see? I don't find you in a different geographical area than me. But then, I saw this airplane flying today, and I remembered, which direction would you go? Which direction did you go? Away from our memories, and our home? Close to our memories and our love? I am assuming you left yourself here so that I don't miss you. I never feel you are not around, just like I am writing this today, just sitting next to you while you are watching, "Why Shahid Afridi Said in an Interview that Babar Azam is not the actual fit for Captaincy of Pakistani Cricket Team." I see you are very furious. Thank god, we had our dinner before, else you would have skipped your food because of this today. Wondering what would be your reaction if I ask you this, that I saw an airplane flying today which direction would you go? Which direction did you go? Away from the strength we hold together, and our love? Close to the strength we hold and our love? Few Unwritten Letters 10/04/2023. 40
Win t e r s o ft e n r e m i n d m e o f y o u C o l d , u n p r e d i c t a b l e , h a t i n g i t a s l o n g a s i t's t h e r e C r a v i n g i t s p r e s e n c e a s s o o n a s i t g o e s a w a y. Autumn reminds me of myself Calm, serene, a bit warm, a bit cool Always falling; For everything and everyone. Crumbling under the lightest breeze Hopes and dreams lying on the ground Just like the dusk-coloured maple leaves. I hated Winters. Gloomy, dark, grey. Until you pulled me in your warm home. Sitting in front of the fireplace, Eating your favourite marshmallows, Slow music in the background And a book in my lap I thought, maybe winters aren't bad after all. Even when you woke me up at 6 in the morning Because you wanted to watch the sunrise. Me? I just wanted to watch you. Cold was something I never liked. Until you showed me how warmth is more appreciable in the freezing mornings. You left before I could really learn to appreciate it Maybe, someday I'll say that I'm fine. Maybe, someday you'll believe me. Now, someone asks me my favourite season. Summer, I reply. Frigid – Ratnanshi Verma 4 1
pg. no. the chronicle of the undeterred – Rishika Dey Karimunnesa folded the near-drenched veil above her head so that it hung right below her chin. It was ridiculous. Ibrahim snorted at her and she just huffed. It was far too hot for her to snark back. She turned away from the brazen heat of the sun to look at her younger sister through the fabric. She was hopping around expectantly waiting for Ibrahim to go through the sheaf of papers with her careful and perfect handwriting on it, although she tried not to show it. Every once in a while he made these exaggerated expressions to tease her and Rokeya would squirm with impatience. Karimunnesa grinned at the sight. Days at her natal home were fun when it was just the siblings together. Suddenly a birdcall of the flowerpecker was heard – their signal. The three exchanged alarmed looks. Father was back. They jumped on their feet and rushed to hide the papers and slates. Karimunnesa pulled Rokeya inside and sat her down with a copy of the holy Quran and pages of her Farsi writing practice as her brother hid all evidence of their secret. Their father walked in, nodding approvingly at the little study group. Ruffling Rokeya’s hair he said, “I brought the goat. Ask the begum to prepare some delicious mutton curry tonight. My friends are coming.” Karimunnesa dutifully got up to prepare him a cup of tea. Another day and their secret was secure. Rokeya’s future was secure. She heaved a sigh of relief and turned to look at her sister who quietly turned the page as Ibrahim corrected her pronunciation. ❋❋❋ She was just looking at her henna painted hands, on her bed as her sisters and cousins flocked around her to perfume and braid flowers into her hair. As they burnished the bride’s cheeks and locked the earrings into her ear, Rokeya looked at the stack of books on her table – Arabic, English, Farsi. Will she ever see them again? She wanted to cry. Ibrahim came inside then, she was wanted in the marriage hall. She swallowed at the gravel edge of her voice and then consented to the marriage louder, and firmer. The entire room erupted into joyful laughs and cheer. Watching the happy buzz of activity around her, Rokeya pondered what it was that led Ibrahim to readily marry her off to this man – Syed Sakhawat Hossein – her heart quailed at once. She was no longer Rokeya Khatun but Rokeya Sakhawat Hossein. Now she looked into the decorative mirror, the reflection of her and her husband side-by-side. He met her eyes and smiled the most comforting smile he could. She blinked, then nodded slowly, afraid of offending him. Making a bad impression. And she smiled back. ❋❋❋ Syed pushed the book aside so he could see her. He glanced beside at the clock, “Aren’t you supposed to be in bed now?” 42
She shook her head still buried in her pages. It was the last chapter of the Bengali grammar book. She was determined to finish the antonyms. She bit her lip, hunched over in concentration, her shadow on the ceiling towering over his in that position. He tsked and got up from his chair, picking up the book in front of her and examined it. “You have made very good progress, Rokeya. Now go to bed.” ❋❋❋ She shook with fever the entire day. Her husband tried his best to comfort her but she could see him blinking his tears back multiple times throughout the day, as he bid farewell to the second baby they had lost. She wanted to reassure him, but there was no way she would resort to hypocrisy. They were two broken souls, rendered hollow, far too hollow. Like misfits. Broken, shattered, irreparable. The sound of Syed’s car leaving stirred her into imagination. She eyed it for a moment through the window and sighed, pushing herself up. Oh. Cars. That can fly. She blinked, tucking a strand behind her ear and exhaled a laugh. Ladyland. Where women are free. She dipped her fountain pen in the inkpot and pressed a dot on the first page to blot the excessive ink. And then the words flowed like the river, weaving a story along the way. “That was the last chapter…”, she had started but stopped midway seeing the pointed look on his face. To bed it was. Syed watched her get up right till she kept her spectacles on the bedside and slipped under the covers. He shook his head to himself, biting back a smile. Then without making any noise, he reached inside his satchel and pulled out a diary with his wife’s name engraved on it in gold letters. Inside was a message. God, he hoped she liked it. Walking lightly on his feet, he then lay down beside her, content. She woke up the next morning absolutely forgetting it was her birthday. She had washed her mouth and face and gone straight to the kitchen to prepare Syed his tea as usual before she saw it. Her heart fluttered when she saw the raised letters – ROKEYA SAKHAWAT HOSSEIN. He had not only pushed her towards education, he had made good his word of encouraging her to write. 'Do not deprive the world of your wondrous mind, Rokeya. Astound them as you astound me everyday. Love and respect, your well-wisher forever.’ Her throat felt suddenly dry as she felt a hand on her shoulder. Embracing him immediately she said, “This is the best present I’ve ever been given. Thank you.” Then of course she sat under the flame of the candle and wrote that night. ❋❋❋ There was no end to the grief. There was no end to the grief of womanhood. ❋❋❋ She began writing. Like Karimunnesa. After the success of Pipasha and the critical acclaim to Matichur, he nudged her towards writing in English. Channel your grief on your pages, Rokeya. The blot of your ink has far more power to move even stone, than a tear, transient of nature that it is, evaporating as soon as it falls. So she had written. In the language she had so passionately wanted to learn and did learn in childhood, against her father’s wishes, with the combined efforts and blessings of her elder siblings. But, English? The language of the imperialists? The language of over a century of subjugation, of chains, of fetters, of bonds, of colonialism. Of revolution. Of change, he replied. Syed pressed a kiss to her temple before he left as Rokeya groaned into her manuscript, which was about two pages long. She craned her head back, closing her eyes and pinching the bridge of her nose. “Ugh.” She tapped her head on the desk thrice. Her mind was blank. Essays on radical feminism were great but those were stories that reached the masses. But what story of womanhood had not been written before? What? What? Yet Rokeya was stuck in this state of self-doubt. 43