The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), in collaboration with the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, hosted a profound discussion on Diyaslai, the autobiography of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi. The event brought together an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, including former President of India Ram Nath Kovind, Padma Bhushan awardee Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, IGNCA Member Secretary Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, and social activist Sumedha Kailash. Moderated by Shri Anurag Punetha, Controller of the Media Centre at IGNCA, the discussion provided a rare opportunity to reflect on Satyarthi’s lifelong fight for child rights and social justice.
Speaking at the event, former President Ram Nath Kovind described Diyaslai as more than just a book—it is a movement that embodies the struggle for children’s fundamental rights. He shared how reading the book stirred memories of his own childhood, drawing a parallel between his journey from a small village in Kanpur Dehat to the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Satyarthi’s path from humble beginnings to receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. He praised Satyarthi’s relentless commitment to child rights, not just in India but on a global scale, and acknowledged the sacrifices he made along the way. He also recalled Satyarthi’s visits to Rashtrapati Bhavan during his tenure, remarking that his words and actions were always deeply inspiring. Highlighting Satyarthi’s selflessness, he noted that dedicating his Nobel Prize to the nation was a reflection of his profound patriotism and unwavering dedication to the cause of children.
Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, Chairman of IGNCA, shared his initial experience with the book, recalling how he was drawn to its cover, sensing that it encapsulated the essence of the entire journey within. Quoting a powerful line from Diyaslai—”In the process of becoming a matchstick, my life too has been woven with threads of angst”—he emphasized that such reflections are not just personal but universal, resonating with the struggles and aspirations of many. He noted that an individual does not progress merely through ambition but through the force of compassion that propels them forward.
Presiding over the discussion, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi described Kailash Satyarthi as a Jagat Bandhu—a universal brother whose compassion knows no borders. He suggested that the journey captured in Diyaslai should continue, proposing that its next installment be titled Akhand Jyoti—the eternal flame of inspiration.
Expressing his gratitude to all those who participated in the discussion, Kailash Satyarthi reflected on the paradox of modern progress. He observed that while the world today is more prosperous than ever before, it continues to struggle with fundamental issues, and in solving one problem, new challenges constantly arise. He firmly stated that compassion is the only true solution to the world’s pressing problems. Through the 24 chapters of Diyaslai, Satyarthi narrates his extraordinary journey—from being the son of a humble police constable in Vidisha to dedicating his life to rescuing children from exploitation, a mission that eventually led him to the Nobel Peace Prize.
The event served as a deeply moving reflection on a life dedicated to justice, empathy, and relentless activism. It was not just a discussion about a book but a celebration of a journey that continues to ignite change, inspiring generations to come.
