An event was organised on Saturday 8 February, honouring three distinguished women closely associated with the ABPL Group - Gujarat Samachar’s Consulting Editors Jyotsna Shah and Kokila Patel, along with renowned singer Maya Deepak. Held at the Courtyard by Marriott in Ahmedabad, the programme also included a ‘Kavya Sandhya’ (evening of poetry), where the highlight was young poet Shabd Goswami.
Host Tushar Joshi welcomed esteemed guests, including former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani and Padma Shri Joravar Singh Jadav, Vice Chairman of the National Academy of Music and Drama. Publisher/Editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, CB Patel, joined the event via Zoom.
Chief guest, Vijay Rupani, was warmly welcomed by renowned oncologist Dr Bhavesh B Parekh, son of late Bhupatrai Parekh, alongside his wife, Dr Urvi Parekh, director, ABPL. Mr Rupani was honoured with a shawl and a commemorative gift.
Singer Maya Deepak captivated the audience with her soulful devotional songs dedicated to Punit Maharaj.
Nari Ratna Awards presented
Former Gujarat Chief Minister, Vijay Rupani presented the Nari Ratna Awards to Jyotsna Shah and Kokila Patel, who have been an integral part of Gujarat Samachar since 1983.
In his address, Mr Rupani said, "We have gathered here to honour Jyotsna Shah, Kokila Patel and Maya Deepak. Heartiest congratulations to all three of them. They are pride of our Gujarat. For the last 40 years, Jyotsna and Kokila, both have contributed significantly to the field of journalism and Mayaben's contribution to music is remarkable."
Recalling his meeting with CB Patel, Mr Rupani praised his dedication to media and community service for the diaspora as well as for the people of Gujarat.
Vibrant poetry and tributes
The evening progressed with a poetry session led by Raksha Shukla, who recited a poignant poem on sexual violence. Hardwar Goswami followed, delivering his celebrated lines in Gujarati, ‘Amthaamamthaam raatre farta, ek deeva pragatavi dejo.’
Poet Paras Patel with a heartfelt ghazal reflected on the deep longing for one’s homeland, whereas just at six years of age, young poet Shabd Goswami introduced himself with confidence and recited several of his own compositions, earning a resounding applause.
Compere Tushar Joshi paid tribute to late Shri Bhupatrai Parekh, a revered figure in Gujarati journalism and once a key part of ABPL Group. He invited Dr Bhavesh B Parekh, and wife, Dr Urvi Parekh, to honour Padma Shri Joravar Singh Jadav.
Mr Jadav described his journey in folk art, highlighting his efforts to elevate artists like Gulabo, who once performed on Pushkar’s streets and later gained global recognition through the Lok Kala Foundation. He emphasised the importance of providing artists a platform, adding that over 5,000 artists are now part of the foundation.
Renowned businessman and Trident Group CMD, Jatin Parekh, honoured poets Haridwar Goswami, Rakshaben Shukla, Paras Patel, Jitendrabhai Joshi, and young Shabd Goswami. Praising the young poet, he said, “While Shabd may not fully grasp the meaning of every word, his emotions and delivery are truly exceptional.”
Mafat Patel presented an encouragement award of Rs 500 to young poet Shabd Goswami.
Award recipients speak
Receiving her award, Kokila Patel expressed her gratitude by saying, "My connection with the ABPL family spans over four decades. I've had the privilege of meeting Bollywood stars, notable figures, and several politicians. My book ‘Ek De Chinagari’ talks about my hometown and upbringing. I also added humour through my 'Ramuj Gathariya' column. During the pandemic, we worked hard to humour our readers, and it was very well received.
“I hold a BA Honours in Politics and my journey with ABPL began when Jyotsnaben, a close friend, took me to meet CB. I started my first work on German line-type machine, later moved to writing, and authored pieces like 'Dahenno Dushan' and 'Naari Tu Narayani.' CB appreciated these articles, and that marked the beginning of my editorial journey. Writing in Gujarati on the computer was challenging at first, but soon I learned the nuances of proper translation.
“In 1985, I was entrusted with the role of Managing Editor. I wrote 30 to 32 columns and later published ‘Ek Je Chinagari', dedicated to CB, Pushpaben, and Sarojben. The name ‘Chinagari’ holds special meaning because CB ignited that spark in me that has shone ever since."
Jyotsna Shah, after receiving her award, said, "Today’s recognition for my 42-year-old career, under CB Patel’s leadership, is a reflection of the power of the pen and the value of meaningful relationships. Our success is rooted in CB’s constant inspiration and the open, supportive environment he has provided.
Reflecting on her own journey, she spoke of her arrival in London in 1982, where the unfamiliarity of the land and its people left her feeling lost. Over time, she adapted, finding solace in reading Gujarat Samachar, which led her to apply for a journalist’s position. Despite lacking formal training in journalism, her MA in Gujarati and BEd helped her secure a job. This began her journey in Gujarati journalism, which eventually led to her role as the Managing Editor of Gujarat Samachar. Even after retiring in 2010, her passion for writing kept her involved as the Consulting Editor.
She also paid tribute to the invaluable contributions of Pushpaben (CB’s wife) and Sarojben (CB’s siter-in-law) to the success of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar.
Speaking about her first book, Jyotsna added that ‘Jeevan Ek, Sur Aneka', a collection of articles captures the essence of the Gujarati community in the UK. Launched in Vadodara in 2020 by Padmashri Dr Vishnubhai Pandya, it marked a significant milestone in her life. Tragically, her husband D R Shah passed away shortly after that, inspiring her to write her second book, ‘Tamara Vina’, which she recently presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi.
Distinguished guests gather to honour artists and contributors
Among distinguished guests attending the event were Devi Parekh, Bhavini Jani, Dr Keyur Buch and Kunjal Buch, Prabhakant Patel, D C Shah, Bharati Shah, Digant Sompura, Bhavesh M Shah, Alka M Shah, Dr Jitesh M Shah, Akshat Shah, Hemal H Shah, Mafatbhai Patel, Dr Prashant and Dr Bhumi Kalavadiya, Kishan Gadhvi, Bhavin Panchal, Chaitanya Panchal,
Nihir Patel, Kunal Thakkar, Sheetal Patel, Dr Jayesh Patel, MP Singh, Pravin Patel, Natu and Indu Patel to name a few.
Dr Bhavesh Parekh in his vote of thanks paid tribute to his father and extended his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the evening such a resounding success.
Receiving her Nari Ratna Award, Maya Deepak said, "When I first visited London in 1985, I was uncertain about what sort of music people might enjoy. But gradually, everything started to come together as I joined Sanjaybhai Patel, a disciple of Divyangbhai Vakil, to present a programme.
"Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar have been a tremendous support, introducing many artists to the world. I am especially grateful to Pushpaben and Sarojben for their encouragement."
She also thanked her husband and son for their unwavering support.
Tushar Joshi, a long-time host, writer, and speaker was also honoured.
Senior journalist and political analyst Ajay Umat, in his brief address, said, "Anyone who meets CB Patel becomes a lifelong friend, forging a bond that feels like family. I wish the organisation continued growth and success."
The event concluded with dinner.
