The Aranya Bhawan Auditorium in Chandrasekharpur came alive with literary fervor on Monday evening as Lohandi to Ladakh – A Travelogue by Om Prakash Singh was launched with great enthusiasm. Organized by Bhubaneswar-based publisher Ketaki Books, renowned for amplifying diverse and meaningful literary voices, the event celebrated the intersection of travel, nature, and introspection.
The evening commenced at 5:30 PM with a warm welcome address by Sunita Jee, DFO, Forest HQ, setting an inviting tone. The highlight was the unveiling of the book, followed by an insightful introduction by visual designer Jyotiranjan Swain, whose creative and publishing expertise was instrumental in shaping the book’s journey to publication.
Author Om Prakash Singh captivated attendees with vivid anecdotes from his transformative expedition from Lohandi to Ladakh, weaving tales of solitude, adventure, and self-discovery that form the heart of the travelogue. His narrative, rich with reflections on humanity’s bond with nature, resonated deeply with the audience.
The event was graced by distinguished guests who enriched the evening with their perspectives. Chief Guest Suresh Pant, IFS, PCCF & HoFF, Odisha, spoke passionately about the synergy between travel and forest preservation. Chief Speaker Debidutta Biswal, IFS (Retd.), delivered a compelling keynote address, while Guests of Honour Uma Nanduri, IFS, PCCF (KL), Odisha, and Prem Kumar Jha, IFS, PCCF (WL), Odisha, highlighted the vital connection between conservation, literature, and exploration.
An interactive session with the author allowed readers to delve into the creative process and personal motivations behind the book, fostering a lively exchange of ideas. The evening concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks from Om Prakash Singh, who expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support. “I am overwhelmed by the incredible response,” he shared. “I hope this book inspires others to find adventure and beauty, near or far.”
Lohandi to Ladakh transcends the conventional travelogue, offering readers an intimate journey through Singh’s experiences with thoughtful prose and vivid observations. Published by Ketaki Books, the book is now available at their Bhubaneswar store and online on Amazon, inviting readers to embark on this inspiring adventure.
The launch marks a significant milestone in Om Prakash Singh’s literary journey, promising to open new horizons for readers eager to explore the profound connections between humanity and the natural world.
