Haiku, a form of Japanese poetry characterized by three lines and a 5-7-5 syllable pattern, is gaining popularity in India. Poets across the country are exploring contemporary themes such as war, refugee crisis, human suffering, and even humor through this poetic form. Although traditionally haikus were rooted in nature, Indian haikuists are adapting to the changing times and exploring a variety of themes.
The anthology “Late Blooming Cherries: Haiku Poetry from India” edited by Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih and Rimi Nath features haikus that range from humorous observations to dark reflections on modern life. The haikus in the anthology capture the essence of human experiences in a concise and impactful manner.
Indian poets like Anju Kishore, Indra Neil, Aparna Pathak, and A Thiagarajan use haiku to reflect on topics like war, politics, and human suffering. While haiku may seem simple, the poets find it challenging to convey complex emotions and ideas within the constraints of three lines.
Kala Ramesh, a pioneer of haiku in India, has been instrumental in promoting the art form and teaching it to aspiring poets. The growing interest in haiku in India can be attributed to its contemplative nature and spiritual appeal, offering a meditative escape amidst the fast-paced urban life.
Despite not being a mainstream literary genre, haiku has found a dedicated community in India. The simplicity and brevity of haiku allow poets to convey powerful messages and evoke deep emotions in just a few words, making it a compelling form of expression in the Indian poetry scene.
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