In a remarkable moment for literature and human rights advocacy, Sandeep Kumar Mishra’s evocative poem Ashes and Echoes will soon grace a travelling exhibition throughout the Netherlands, thanks to Utrecht University’s groundbreaking initiative. The poem was shortlisted in the university’s prestigious Poems for Human Rights international competition, a celebration of poetic creativity and social justice.
Sandeep’s powerful verse, which weaves vivid imagery with a resonant human rights message, has captivated the jury and secured its place among the six exceptional poems chosen from a sea of global entries. The competition received submissions spanning diverse poetic traditions, making the final selection a challenging but rewarding task for the panel of distinguished judges.
The jury, comprising luminaries such as Geert Buelens, Antoine Buyse, Hanneke van Eijken, and others, commended the shortlisted poems for their depth, originality, and ability to inspire. “Ashes and Echoes stood out for its rich symbolism and profound impact,” the jury noted. “Its haunting reflections on human rights violations resonate deeply in today’s world.”
A Showcase of Global Talent
The competition will celebrate two ex aequo winners—one poem in English and one in Dutch—alongside four commendable works. The shortlisted poets include Marieke Vreeken (Human Treaty), Vicky Breemen (Universe Declaration), Sandeep Kumar Mishra (Ashes and Echoes), Safiya Lall Mohamed (True Colours), Alessandra Spadaro (It Rains Bombs) and Elyse Touron - van der Roer (Wie Schrijft Dan Nog – Ongehoord Soedan)
The three winning poets will receive cash prizes, supported by the Netherlands Institute of Human Rights, the Freudenthal Institute, and Institutions for Open Societies. They will also perform their works during Impact Night 2024: Human Rights, for Present and Future Generations on Human Rights Day in December and at the Faculty Club in February 2025.
An Exhibition across Utrecht and Beyond
Ashes and Echoes, along with the other shortlisted poems, will be showcased in a travelling exhibition across the city of Utrecht. The exhibition schedule and places includes Janskerkhof 3, Utrecht: December 10–17, 2024, University Library City Centre, Drift 27: Mid-December 2024 to mid-January 2025 and Bibliotheek Neude, Neude 11: January 30 – February 5, 2025
The exhibition aims to amplify the voices of poets who have transformed human rights advocacy into a poignant art form. Utrecht University’s efforts reflect a commitment to fostering dialogue on human rights issues through creativity.
Global Recognition for Sandeep Kumar Mishra
Sandeep’s triumph extends beyond the exhibition. His poem will also be featured on the competition’s website and in an anthology that promises to share these powerful works with a global audience. This recognition solidifies his position as a compelling literary voice and a fierce advocate for human rights.
When asked about the honor, Sandeep expressed gratitude: “It’s a privilege to have my poem included in such an important initiative. Poetry has the power to bridge divides, and I hope Ashes and Echoes resonates with audiences, inspiring empathy and action.”
As the world prepares to celebrate Human Rights Day, Sandeep Kumar Mishra’s Ashes and Echoes stands as a beacon of creativity and compassion, reminding us of the enduring power of words to ignite change.
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