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Vivek Sharma, New Delhi: In a unique initiative, civil society members in India got to listen to two prominent voices from North Korea and understand the struggles of the residents of the reclusive nation. At an event held by Korean Cultural Centre India in association with India International Centre and Seoul-based Freedom Speakers International, human rights author Songmi Han, who escaped a difficult life in North Korea in March 2011, narrated ordeals of living under a brutal dictatorial regime.

Ms Songmi Han, the author of the book, “Greenlight to Freedom: A North Korean Daughter's Search for Her Mother & Herself”, was in New Delhi along with Ms Hyoshim Maeng, another North Korean refugee who escaped the country in 2018. The other two speakers at the event included Casey Lartigue, who co-authored the book with Songmi Han and is currently the Chairman of ‘Freedom Speakers International’ and Eunkoo Lee, who is the acting co-representative of Freedom Speakers International.

“Greenlight to Freedom: A North Korean Daughter’s Search for Her Mother & Herself” is Songmi Han’s autobiographical story written in English and narrates her experience of a life in extreme poverty and difficulty while living in North Korea. Her story captures the lives of several others in the country who have no choice of escape from the reclusive nation. Freedom Speakers International, to which she belongs, is an organization that carries out various campaign activities to improve the human rights of North Korean defectors, especially by helping them with English educational activities and raising their voices for true freedom.

Sharing his thoughts regarding the event, Yuvraj Malik, Director of National Book Trust-India said, “The program organised by the Korean Cultural Centre India, featuring esteemed Korean authors and expert speakers, highlighted the importance of amplifying the voices of those who have suffered and inspiring action for human rights. I believe that books and literary discussions serve as powerful catalysts for social change. At the National Book Trust India, we are committed to promoting literature and knowledge that contribute to a better society. It is our collective responsibility to work towards a world where the rights of every individual are upheld and respected.

Dr. Anthony Raju, President, All India Council Of Human Rights, Liberties & Social Justice (AICHLS) said, “The theme, ‘Voices from North Korea’ itself is self-explanatory, and we strongly believe that the human rights of every individual is holistic and to be saved in all manner. The grave human rights violations in North Korea are not unknown to the world, but unfortunately, global institutions such as the United Nations has failed to address this grave concern globally.”

Dr. Ramesh Chand Sharma (Divik Ramesh), an eminent Hindi poet, said, “In today's world the importance of human rights is paramount. Violation of these rights is the biggest tragedy and greatest sorrow. Therefore, every fight for them, every effort to save them is worthy of welcome.”

Hwang Il Yong, Director of Korean Cultural Centre India said, “The story of the book is very attractive. I hope it will resonate with modern people who live with the risk of self-indulgence and loneliness going beyond too much freedom and help the people of both countries understand each other through the voice of a girl who grows to learn forgiveness and gratitude in the process of pursuing the freedom.”

 

New Delhi: The grand finale of The Singing Star, a platform designed to showcase singing talent, concluded with spectacular performances by some of the most talented singers from Delhi NCR. The auditions were held at St. Teresa School, Kaushambi (Ghaziabad), and the grand finale took place at S G Public Senior Secondary School, Vasundhara, Ghaziabad. Over 30 talented contestants participated in the finale. In the age group up to 18 years, Vanshika secured the first position, Lubhani the second, and Agastya the third. In the age group above 18 years, Chahat Hussain clinched the first position, Mohammad Faisal the second, and Mohammad Kaif the third. The event was graced by notable personalities, including the renowned singer Shankar Sahni as the chief guest. Special guests included Vipin Gaur, General Secretary of the Newspaper Association of India; celebrated actress Radha Bhatt; Sushil Bharti, Director of Radio Noida; and educationist Raja Raman Khanna. The program was expertly hosted by RJ Gagan Gautam and Vaishnavi from Radio Sharda. The main organizers of the event, Geeta Hasija, Meenakshi, Ranjeet Singh, and Nav Shekhar, ensured a smooth and successful finale. Their dedication brought together talent and spectators for a night filled with music and celebration. Shankar Sahni, the chief guest, congratulated all the winners and encouraged those who did not win to work harder and aim for success in future competitions. Radha Bhatt shared her own journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hard work. Vipin Gaur extended his best wishes to all participants, highlighting that victory and defeat are two sides of the same coin. He praised The Singing Star initiative for providing a platform for talented individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity to shine.

 The Singing Star finale was a resounding success, leaving participants and attendees inspired and looking forward to future editions of the event.