The Hasya Kavi Sammelan organized by Hindi Manch was a wonderful evening filled with laughter. The poems and the plays were delightful and had the audience laughing away. The event was held on March 11 at the United Church of Christ in Burlington, MA. 

“Hasya Kavi Sammelan is a popular Holi tradition in India. We decided to bring this tradition to Boston” said Preetesh Shrivastava, the founder of the Hindi Manch.  The event was sold out. 

Guests were welcomed with Holi Colors. The stage was tastefully decorated. Several poets including Harish Dang, Manish Arora, Kiran Nath, Chandu Shah, Eshani Shah, Raj Sisodia, Sushil Bhatia, Praveen Misra, Raksha Soni and others presented either their original compositions or recited famous compositions. 

Eshani Shah is the daughter of one of the most famous creator of humorous work, Tarak Mehta, creator of Tarak Mehta ka Ulta Chashma.  A few weeks ago Tarak Mehta passed away.   “Humorous poetry is a great way to celebrate my father’s life” said Eshani as she recited a fun poem on NRIs and their lives. 

A very original play by Rahul Joshi was a humorous look at HR departments in companies. Other presentations including music and dance to Holi  songs.  Female humorists are not too many in the world of Hindi poetry. Kudos to Kiran Nath for her fabulous poems that took a very original take on humor from a female perspective. 

After the evening of laughter some members of the audience proceeded to witness a Holika Dehen, a Bon Fire in the traditional fashion. 

We look forward to Holi again next year with more fun and laughter at  Hindi Manch.