Shillong, June 25: City author Salil Gewali received Dr. APJ Abdul Kamal award recently during the release of Urdu edition of his book — ‘Great Minds on INDIA’.
The book was released by the Governor of Assam Gulab Chand Kataria at Raj Bhavan, Guwahati. The function was attended by scholars and guests from Assam, Kolkata, Meghalaya and Manipur. During the programme, Gewali was awarded “Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Rashtra Gaurav Samman” by a Muslim organisation, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation of Howrah, West Bengal for Gewali’s contribution to the nation. The governor formally presented the award to the author and lauded him for his contribution to the country through his research-based book highlighting the profound impact of ancient Indian literature on Western luminaries.
Great Minds on India” was translated into Urdu by Dr. Syed Hussain of Hyderabad and edited by Abdul Khalique of Kolkata. The book published by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation, Howrah, has so far been translated into thirteen languages, including German. The secretary of the organisation Abdul Khalique has also promised to distribute the Urdu edition to a minimum of sixty countries worldwide, ensuring its global reach and impact. Gewali extended his appreciation to each member of the organisation for their support in translating and publishing his book in Urdu. He acknowledged the organisation’s dedication and commitment to its cause.
Gewali was honoured with multiple Ananda Sammelan Puraskars and Bhanu awards. In 2011, his contribution was further acknowledged with the prestigious Thomas Jones Award from the United Christian Writers’ Association.
Also having been prescribed as a study textbook in several academic institutes in India and Virginia in the USA, ‘Great Minds on INDIA’ stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and intellectual contributions of India to the world. It is an inspiring read that bridges the ancient wisdom of India with modern scientific and philosophical discourse, Gewali said.
“Know Your India” is Gewali’s another patriotic book, released by the Chief Minister of Sikkim in 2022. This title has recently been approved for higher classes in one of the prestigious schools in Kolkata. Gewali is also credited with a series of school textbooks prescribed by the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE).
