Bagalobachi Shala

Jitendra Kuvar is now a well-known name among Marathi readers. His writing is diverse, encompassing poetry, short stories, and children’s literature. A sensitive administrator often finds himself drawn to the world beyond the ‘files’ of administration. Kuvar’s literary work is his response to that call. Nature is the vital force that runs through his writing.

Bagalobachi Shala is a collection of children’s poems. A great deal of children’s literature is being written today. This is certainly a matter of joy, but it is also a matter of responsibility. Writing good children’s literature is no easy task. And when we consider the mindset, understanding, and experiential world of today’s children, it becomes an even greater challenge for writers. Children today are remarkably sharp and full of energy, because the world around them is vast and extraordinary.

In this collection, the poet has brought together a grand gathering of animals and birds from the forest. Although the school belongs to the herons, it includes everyone—sparrows and crows, squirrels, rabbits, mongooses, elephants, porcupines, tortoises, peacocks, deer, snakes, parrots, tigers, roosters, goats, monkeys, bears, cuckoos, foxes, cobras, butterflies, insects, and ants. And, of course, the trees and vines are very much a part of this lively company.

This wondrous school begins after the rooster crows. And, most importantly, everyone in this school is happy. If we want to preserve their happiness, we must protect the forests with all our heart. Carrying this message, these poems take us on a delightful tour through the forest with effortless grace.

With my best wishes that the poet’s words may grow ever richer, denser, and more profound…

— Dasu Vaidya