Keki N. Daruwalla: A Literary Luminary and Former Intelligence Officer Passes Away at 87

Renowned poet and former intelligence officer Keki N. Daruwalla passed away at the age of 87 in a Delhi hospital after a prolonged illness. His literary contributions and mentorship have left an indelible mark on Indian literature, inspiring countless writers and poets.

Key Takeaways

Keki N. Daruwalla, celebrated poet and former IPS officer, died at 87.
He was known for his profound poetry and short stories, with a career spanning over five decades.
Daruwalla returned his Sahitya Akademi award in 2015 in protest against rising intolerance.

A Life of Literary Excellence

Born in Lahore in 1937, Keki N. Daruwalla's journey began in the realm of poetry, with his first collection, "Under Orion," published in 1970. Over the years, he produced several acclaimed works, including:

Apparition in April (1971)
Crossing of Rivers (1976)
The Keeper of the Dead (1982) - Sahitya Akademi Award winner
The Scarecrow and the Ghost (2004)
Love Across the Salt Desert (2006)
Pepper and the Christ (2009)
Landfall (2023)

His poetry often reflected a deep understanding of both local and global themes, showcasing his ability to weave narratives that resonated across cultures.

A Dual Career

Daruwalla's career was not limited to literature; he also served as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. His roles included:

Special assistant on international affairs to former Prime Minister Charan Singh.
Chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee at the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).

Despite his significant contributions to law enforcement and intelligence, it was his literary work that garnered him national and international acclaim.

A Voice Against Intolerance

In 2015, following the assassination of writer M.M. Kalburgi, Daruwalla returned his Sahitya Akademi award, expressing his discontent with the organization’s silence on issues of freedom of expression. He stated:

This act of protest highlighted his commitment to upholding the values of literature and freedom of expression.

Tributes and Legacy

Daruwalla's passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from the literary community. Notable figures have expressed their sorrow and admiration:

Neelum Saran Gour, author, remarked on his humility and global perspective.
Namita Gokhale, writer and festival director, emphasized his kindness and literary mastery.
K. Satchidanandan, poet, noted his integrity and mentorship to multiple generations of writers.

His legacy is characterized by a vast body of work that continues to inspire and challenge readers and writers alike.

Conclusion

Keki N. Daruwalla's life was a tapestry woven with threads of poetry, prose, and public service. His contributions to literature and his unwavering stance against intolerance will be remembered as a beacon for future generations. As the literary world mourns his loss, his words and wisdom will continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of literature to reflect and shape society.

Sources

Celebrated poet and former intelligence officer Keki N Daruwalla dies at 87 | Latest News India - Hindustan Times, Hindustan Times.
Poet Keki N. Daruwalla dies at 87, The Hindu.
Poet and former IPS officer Keki Daruwalla dies at 87, The Indian Express.