The second day of Sahitya Aaj Tak 2026 featured a session entitled 'Poetry Between Truth and Falsehood', where two prominent poets, Sushila Puri and Pallavi Vinod, engaged in a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving nature of poetry amidst truth and lies. Sushila Puri opened the dialogue by reflecting on the beautiful spring weather, emphasizing that poetry naturally aligns with truth and prefers to dwell in its company. However, she noted the increasing difficulty in distinguishing between truth and falsehood in the contemporary era, highlighting the fine line that exists between the two. This complexity makes understanding poetry alongside its essence a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, thickening the need for truth in today’s world.

Puri elaborated that the current societal climate is fraught with challenges, thereby increasing the necessity for poetry as a medium to convey sincerity and depth in expression. She shared her journey as a poet, recalling how she started writing from a young age, initially producing lyrical poetry that adhered to structured forms. This personal reflection served to illustrate the shift in poetic styles and themes over the years, suggesting a broader discussion on how poetry adapts to reflect social realities.

Throughout the session, both poets reinforced the idea that poetry serves a significant role in contemporary society, acting as both a reflection of truth and a means of grappling with the complexities of modern existence. This discussion not only highlighted the poets’ personal philosophies but also captivated the audience by connecting literary art to the pressing societal challenges we face today.