Poetry by Arun Kolatkars

Arun Kolatkar (1932-2004) was a Maharashtrian poet who wrote in both Marathi and English. His poems reveal a keen eye for observing and deciphering things. Seven years after his death; His poems in both languages ​​continue to inspire poets and readers alike. Kolatkar first burst into the spotlight with his Jejuri collection (1977). The collection of 31 poems begins with poems about the bus ride that have a hint of some metaphysical experience. Chronologically, with biting humor, satire, nonchalance, and distant compassion, Kolatkar describes a trip to the Jejuri temple, an hour’s drive from Pune. He tells of the legend of Khandoba, the god of the temple, of greedy priests and temple dogs, beggars and ruins.

Midway through this Commonwealth Writers’ Prize-winning collection, the poem ‘The Butterfly’ highlights the poet’s skill and eye. The final lines describing a small yellow butterfly are: Just a hint of yellow, it opens before it closes / and closes before it or / where is it? Meanwhile, Kolatkar, a student at JJ School of Arts, was pursuing his career as a graphic artist at an advertising company.

The poet was very lonely (Including: No phone) and it was after a long period of time that the next Kolatkar collection came out in English. Meanwhile, his Marathi collection Arun Kolatkarcha Kavita (Poems of Arun Kolatkar) came out in 1977. The two collections Chirimiri and Bhijki Vahi came out much later in 2004, the latter winning the Sahitya Academy Award the same year. . Another Droan collection came out in the same year.

Kolatkar was very reluctant to publish his verse in English; only when he was diagnosed with cancer were Kalaghoda Poems (2004) and Sarpasatra (2004) released. Both books are noted for their wit, observation, and the poet’s humorous and unconventional use of language. The poet used to observe South Mumbai life from his cafe table in Kalaghoda, and that is where most of his poems originate. Whether it’s the stray dog ​​that’s shaped like the state map, or the beggar, the crow that’s hesitant to pick a twig for its nest, the collection is a delight. Similarly, Sarpasatra is a scathing version of the Mahabharata and reflects the current scene of riots, injustice and communal disharmony.

We can safely conclude that Arun Kolatkar’s verses would continue to be read, as he belonged to a school of rebellious poetry and spoiled children. He wrote some really cool stuff, for sure.