Anish Kanjilal, born on June 23, 1976, in Kolkata, India, is an acclaimed Indian author and poet whose work explores the profound facets of human existence. Growing up in Kolkata, a city renowned for its literary heritage, Kanjilal was immersed in an environment that nurtured his literary inclinations. His educational journey began at St. Mary’s School and continued through Vidyasagar College, Calcutta University (C.U.), and Indira Gandhi National University (I.G.N.O.U), culminating in a Postgraduate Diploma in Communication and programming from S.T.G.
Professional Contributions
Currently, Kanjilal is the Director and Senior Lecturer at Educare The Institute (E.T.I) in Kolkata, where he influences both aspiring students and seasoned scholars with his profound knowledge. His dedication to education and literature was recognized by Rajasthan Patrika in 2009. Through his role at E.T.I, Kanjilal integrates his literary passion with his teaching, enriching the academic environment with his insights.
Notable Literary Works
“Fateless 13”: An Exploration of Human Existence
Fateless 13, published in 2015, is a remarkable collection of thirteen poems that delve into the complexities of life, mortality, and the essence of existence. Through these poems, Kanjilal juxtaposes historical and personal reflections, offering readers a contemplative journey that spans the realms of fantasy and reality. This collection is celebrated for its ability to resonate deeply with the human experience.
“11 Oracles” Philosophical Reflections and Revelations
Kanjilal’s latest work, 11 Oracles, is a profound collection of eleven poems divided into five thematic parts. Published recently, this series addresses the cyclical nature of existence and the eternal struggle between chaos and order. The poems in 11 Oracles aim to uncover hidden truths about life, encouraging readers to contemplate the deeper meanings behind everyday experiences.
The Philosophy Behind the Pen
Anish Kanjilal’s approach to writing is characterized by his belief in the transformative power of poetry. He views poetry as a medium to bridge the gap between the mundane and the divine, expressing what is often inexpressible. His work is noted for its simplicity and authenticity, aimed at creating a strong emotional and intellectual connection with readers. Influenced by poets such as Robert Frost and Sylvia Plath, Kanjilal’s writing reflects a deep engagement with philosophical and existential themes.
Interviews and Perspectives
In various interviews, Kanjilal has discussed his creative motivations, emphasizing a desire to encapsulate and communicate life’s profound lessons through poetry. He views each poem as a reflection of both personal and universal truths, striving to maintain originality and authenticity despite the challenges of the literary world. Kanjilal compares his evolution as a poet to the changing seasons: spring represents new beginnings, summer symbolizes growth, autumn signifies reflection, and winter denotes introspection. This cyclical metaphor illustrates his continuous development and transformation as a writer, highlighting his resilience and passion.
Awards and Recognition
Anish Kanjilal’s literary contributions have earned him notable accolades. In 2009, he received the Rajasthan Patrika Literary Award, and in 2024, he was honoured as the Best Poet of the Year at the Kolkata Literary Carnival organized by Ukiyoto. His works have also been featured prominently at the Cafe Poésie hosted by Alliance Française du Bengale. In 2024 he was awarded the Shiksha Sagar Samman award by National education forum (G.O.I).
Upcoming Projects
Kanjilal is currently working on his third volume of poetry, tentatively titled Herculean 12, which promises to explore themes of resilience and strength. This new collection is anticipated to continue his tradition of blending philosophical insights with lyrical expression.
Social Media and Online Presence
Anish Kanjilal maintains an active presence on social media, where he engages with readers and fellow writers. His profiles include: