Felicitation Ceremony Held at IIAS on Publication of Dr Akhilesh Pathak’s New Book

Copy of the Book Presented to Director Professor Chaturvedi

Shimla, 3 February 2026. At the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla, the Director of the Institute, Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi , today congratulated Dr. Akhilesh Pathak, Public Relations Officer of the Institute, on the publication of his recently released book “Devbhoomi ki Aatma: Himachal Pradesh ki Lok Sanskriti, Sangeet, Kala aur Utsavon ki Ek Samagra Yatra,” a book documenting the folk culture, music, art, and festivals of Himachal Pradesh. Dr. Pathak was felicitated in the presence of all Section Officers of the Institute. On this occasion, the author presented a copy of his book to Professor Chaturvedi. The book has launched in Shimla’s historical Gaity Theatre on Thursday.

After going through the book, Director Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi congratulated Dr. Pathak on the publication and remarked that the work presents the rich folk culture, traditions, and cultural diversity of Himachal Pradesh with in-depth research and a sensitive perspective. He stated that “this book, centered on the folk culture, music, art, and festivals of Himachal Pradesh, will not only prove useful for researchers, students, and academics but will also connect general readers with the cultural soul of Devbhoomi. Such creative and academic endeavors further strengthen the intellectual and cultural stature of the Institute.”

In his remarks, Dr. Akhilesh Pathak highlighted the background of the book, stating that the work is the outcome of long-term study, extensive travel, and lived experiences related to folk life, folk music, traditional arts, and festivals prevalent across different regions of Himachal Pradesh. He noted that “this book is a humble attempt to preserve the cultural heritage of Devbhoomi Himachal Pradesh and to pass it on to future generations.”

On the occasion, Dr. Pathak expressed his special gratitude to the Director of the Institute, Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, stating that without his guidance, encouragement, and trust, this work would not have been possible. He also conveyed his sincere thanks to all officers, colleagues, and the entire Institute family for their support. Remembering the constant cooperation, patience, and encouragement of his family, he said that without familial support, such a creative endeavor could not be completed. Dr. Pathak also expressed his thanks to the publisher of the book, Satluj Prakashan, whose cooperation, trust, and guidance in the publication process enabled the book to reach its readers.

During the felicitation ceremony, officers from various sections of the Institute were present and extended their congratulations to Dr. Akhilesh Pathak on this literary achievement. The atmosphere of the programme was cordial and inspiring, clearly reflecting the Institute’s continued commitment to literature, culture, and research.