Remembering Boris Pasternak, the Nobel laureate Russian poet and novelist on his 136th birth anniversary

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For many, the name of Boris Pasternak (1890-1960) is associated exclusively with his novel, “Doctor Zhivago”, which he wrote during 1946-55. He was awarded the 1958 Nobel Prize in Literature primarily for this novel. The Prize also recognized his significant achievement both in contemporary lyrical poetry and in the field of the Russian epic tradition. A literary evening paying tribute to the literary genius on his birth anniversary, was held at Gorky Sadan, Russian House Kolkata. The cultural collaborator Rossotrudnichestvo, the organisation behind Russian Houses globally, marked its centenary last year.

The programme featured a presentation on Pasternak’s life and works, poetry recitations by students, along with musical renditions based on his poetry. Vishal Sharma, PhD of Tomsk State University delivered a talk about the novel “Doctor Zhivago”. A photo exhibition showcasing the author’s life and works was part of the event.

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The Director of Russian House Kolkata, Sergey Shushin, in his welcome address said, “We are happy to present photographs capturing Boris Pasternak’s life and creativity, alongside other Russian Nobel laureates like Ivan Bunin, Mikhail Sholokhov, Alexandr Solzhenitsyn, and Joseph Brodsky. Hope you find the display of over 100 photographs fascinating, which provide a deeper insight into these literary giants.”

The event included presentations and discussions that explored various aspects of Pasternak, that deserve attention, including his poetic and prose works and philosophical aspects that are central to Pasternak’s heritage. Students of Institute of Russian Language at Gorky Sadan, Visva Bharati University, and Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture participated, along with literary enthusiasts and admirers of Russian literature.

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Madhubanti Choudhury, a senior student of Institute of Russian Language, gave a detailed presentation about the author, his biography, works and lasting legacy. “Preparing for the presentation, I started researching over a month ago. As I came to know about his life, his literary journey, I found myself totally drawn into his world. I recited Pasternak’s poem Uchis proshyach – “Learn to Forgive” which is a profound and deeply spiritual poem. Our event beautifully honoured this outstanding Russian poet and author.”

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Snigdhaa Jaiswal started learning Russian three months ago at Gorky Sadan. What’s striking is how Pasternak’s words still resonate with readers today – like Snigdhaa said, “I started learning Russian only three months ago. Attending the programme on Boris Pasternak felt like slipping into the quiet, intense world of Russian literature. Reciting “Winter Night” from Doctor Zhivago made me slow down and truly feel every line. At its very core, it reminded me of how one can choose to focus on staying put together despite turbulence externally. It applies to every other aspect in life, especially when it comes to situations that are beyond our control.”

Pasternak’s legacy is definitely in good hands with these young enthusiasts. The evening, a heartfelt tribute to the towering figure of 20th-century literature, reinforced his enduring relevance, global impact and the timeless nature of his contribution to the world of literature. Boris Pasternak shall continue to inspire and delight readers with his timeless tales! Debasmita Moulick, Senior Journalist, literary and film transla