Ayodhya (A Battleground)

Ayodhya means the invincible. We all know the meaning of 'yuddh' or war. 'Yodhya' means the one worthy of a 'yuddh' or war. One engages in a war with whom they feel they can conquer. So Ayodhya spells out as 'that which cannot be conquered'. But the memory of the demolished domes stands erect in the memory of the nation setting aside the literal meaning of the name. The memory of the domes creates a perception of 'the ruler' versus 'the ruled' in our subconscious.

For the last hundred years, the country's politics has been revolving around these domes. The narrative has been lingering on for generations. Innumerable arguments, extensive discussions, yet no conclusion. Everything revolved around these domes. Even now it's all about the domes even when they don't exist. There hasn't been an intellectual effort herculean enough to measure its depth, sharpness and truth, which can reclaim the cardinal connection of the present and the future with the history of the land.

Active in Hindi journalism for the last 35 years, Hemant Sharma started his career from Jansatta newspaper of the prestigious Express Group. He is gifted with legacy of journalism and literature. He started journalism in 1983 at a very young age. His educational journey from graduation till doctorate was carried at Benaras Hindu University, Varanasi. After formal education, he continued his efforts to study society, ideas and beliefs that support the structure and superstructure of human existence. His journey continued with the prominent media houses of the country namely The Express Group, The Hindustan, India TV and the prestigious TV9 Group which he is working for presently.

Hemant Sharma is known for his political satires and his fiery writing. He has been awarded the 'Yash Bharti' by the Government of Uttar Pradesh. It will not be an exaggeration to call Hemant Sharma the doyen of Hindi journalism.

His other works namely Ekda Bharatvarshe and Tamasha Mere Aage are a collection of articles on life and society whereas the widely acclaimed Dwitiyonasti is a depiction of the stunning beauty of Kailas Mansarovar, demystifying its halo which would otherwise be difficult to fathom through naked eyes.