Speaking during a special discussion on the revised edition of the book ‘A Zigzag Mind’ by former Member of Parliament, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, former President Ram Nath Kovind called the life of the renowned dance exponent a symbol of firm conviction.
Kovind was the chief guest of the event, organised by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), graced by Dattatreya Hosabale, Sarkaryavah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, as the Guest of Honour.
Eminent author and social worker Sundeep Bhutoria was also present as a special guest. The discussion was chaired by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA.
The event that was held on Monday included an engaging discussion on the ideas explored in A Zigzag Mind and also marked the launch of its new edition, which reflects the extraordinary journey of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh as an artist, mentor, thinker, and cultural icon.
The book has been published by IGNCA in collaboration with Vitasta Publishing.
Speaking about the book and Sonal Mansingh’s artistic journey, Kovind said, “Sonal ji’s life is not about stubbornness, but a symbol of firm conviction.” Her art is an extraordinary confluence of dedication, discipline, and cultural service. Despite immense struggles, especially returning to the stage after a fatal accident, she stands as a living example of the saying: ‘Man ke haare haar hai, man ke jeete jeet’ (Defeat lies in a defeated mind; victory belongs to a determined one).” Former President Kovind further remarked, “Dance is not merely technique, but a form of meditation, penance, and yoga.”
Emphasising the relevance of the Guru-Shishya tradition, he quoted a verse from the Mundaka Upanishad: “Tadvijnanartham sa gurumevabhigacchet samitpanih shrotriyam brahmanishtham,” which means: “To attain the knowledge of the Supreme, one should approach a Guru, carrying the sacred fuel, who is well-versed in the Vedas and immersed in Brahm.”