Ananta Press is delighted to congratulate Dr. Pankaj Sudan on the official nomination of his remarkable Hindi book, “आओ चलें,” for the prestigious Ananta Press Sahitya Ratna Award in the General Fiction category.
This nomination honours not only an accomplished literary work but also an author whose life has been devoted to spiritual exploration, psychological understanding, selfless service and the sharing of wisdom. Through “आओ चलें,” Dr. Pankaj Sudan presents a creative, thought-provoking and highly original interpretation of one of the most enduring principles of Indian philosophy—“चरैवेति, चरैवेति,” meaning that one must continue to move forward.
At the heart of “आओ चलें” lies the idea that movement and flow are essential to every dimension of life. The book explains that just as the slowing of blood circulation can cause physical complications, the interruption of thoughts can lead to stress and depression. Similarly, restricted imports and exports can weaken an economy, while the absence of interaction among relatives may create emotional distance within families. Through such relatable examples, the author establishes that flow is not merely a physical process but a fundamental principle governing human health, relationships, society, economics, thought and spiritual development.
What makes “आओ चलें” particularly distinctive is the manner in which it communicates profound philosophical ideas without making them appear inaccessible or burdensome. Dr. Pankaj Sudan combines serious reflection with humour, everyday observations and entertaining situations. As a result, readers are invited to examine complex questions of life while remaining engaged by the light-hearted and lively narrative.
The book is written in the traditional Indian Champu literary style, a rare and demanding form that combines prose and poetry. In Champu literature, prose and verse do not merely appear alongside each other; they work together to create rhythm, movement and emotional energy. Even the prose carries a lyrical quality and often reflects the musical flow of rhyming verse. Very few contemporary writers attempt this form, making Dr. Pankaj Sudan’s use of it an important contribution to the preservation and revival of India’s classical literary traditions.
The narrative follows Ramta Jogi, the central character, and his disciple Chipku Lal as they travel through the world. Through ordinary incidents and everyday experiences, the two characters reveal subtle spiritual and psychological insights. Their journey transforms familiar situations into opportunities for learning, reflection and self-discovery.
The humorous chapter titles—such as “समोसा,” “आलू की टिक्की,” “शिकंजी,” “ठंडी लस्सी” and “गर्मागर्म जलेबी”—further demonstrate the originality of the book. These playful references create curiosity and warmth while helping the author present serious modern-day problems in a simple and enjoyable manner. The book does not distance philosophy from daily life; instead, it shows that wisdom can be discovered in conversations, journeys, relationships, food, humour and the smallest human experiences.
The Ananta Press Sahitya Ratna Award recognises authors and books that demonstrate literary merit, originality, cultural relevance, meaningful social impact and the ability to enrich readers’ lives. After considering the subject, narrative approach, philosophical depth and distinctive literary style of “आओ चलें,” the award committee found the book deserving of official nomination.
The committee particularly appreciated the author’s ability to transform the philosophical principle of continuous movement into a practical message for contemporary readers. At a time when many individuals struggle with emotional stagnation, stress, isolation and uncertainty, “आओ चलें” encourages them to continue learning, communicating, travelling, reflecting and moving forward. Its message is hopeful without being superficial and philosophical without becoming disconnected from reality.
Dr. Pankaj Sudan’s personal and professional journey further strengthens the significance of this nomination. His search for truth began at the age of eighteen with a solitary journey to the Himalayas. He later joined the Sri Ramakrishna Mission in New Delhi as a brahmachari before choosing an independent path of spiritual inquiry. After returning to social life, he worked as a teacher and subsequently joined the State Bank of India, while continuing his exploration of spirituality and the human mind.
At only twenty-one, he published his first book, “Zero,” which explored the workings of the mind through an engaging narrative. His later connection with the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram in Meerut led him to conduct free meditation classes for nearly three decades. His dedication and spiritual understanding eventually resulted in his appointment as Vice President of the ashram, a position he held for more than fifteen years.
Dr. Sudan is presently associated with the World Culture and Environment Protection Commission as Vice President. His spiritual and psychological guidance has reportedly reached more than 80,000 students and followers. His literary works—including “Zero,” “Deep Mind and Whispers of Eternity,” “Sipping Spiritual Tea from a Parallel Cup,” “Sanatan Shankhnaad,” “आओ चलें” and the poetry collection “Ek Jhonka Taazi Hawa Ka”—reflect his continuing commitment to philosophy, consciousness and human well-being. His works have also received numerous national and international recognitions.
The nomination of “आओ चलें” celebrates a rare combination of classical literary technique, contemporary relevance, humour, philosophy and practical wisdom. It recognises Dr. Pankaj Sudan’s ability to make profound ideas accessible and to remind readers that progress begins when one refuses to remain mentally, emotionally or spiritually stagnant.
Ananta Press extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Pankaj Sudan on this well-deserved official nomination for the Ananta Press Sahitya Ratna Award. We wish him continued success in his literary and spiritual journey and deeply appreciate his valuable contribution to Hindi literature, Indian philosophy and the psychological and spiritual enrichment of readers.
May “आओ चलें” continue to inspire people to embrace the timeless call of “चरैवेति, चरैवेति”—to keep walking, keep discovering and keep moving forward.
