Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Ensuring peace between nations is the need of the hour

Punyaa Dewan, a student of the Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), decided to pursue MA in English because she wanted to hone her writing skills as she aspires to become a teacher in the future. The  23-year-old Jalandhar girl is also a freelance blogger, content writer as well as enjoys copywriting for advertisements, she explains in an interview. Edited excerpts:

Why did you choose to write on this topic ‘Ensuring peace between nations is the need of the hour’?

The current war-torn situation between Ukraine and Russia inspired me to write on this topic. The war has led to such adverse circumstances which are really heart-wrenching for me. The current conflicting situation indifferently seems to claim so many innocent lives. I believe: No peace serves no good.

Suggest ways we can establish peace in our day or day life?

Wars should be prohibited all over the world. Someone who disrupts peace and harmony must be punished. In fact, one should implement ways to build peace in one’s life as well as in the society or community. And once individuals start applying principles of non-violence it will help reduce conflict, anger and violence not just on the personal level but also the community level. Hence, the idea of peace coexisting with harmony must be upheld by everyone.

What is your idea of peace? What steps do you follow to maintain peace?

Maintaining peace resides in the hands of a human being, unlike any natural disaster. So we should be responsible enough to stay cool and calm instead of showing anger or being vengeful that may lead to serious consequences for oneself and others. It’s our duty to maintain peace. I am a very cool-headed and poised person. I try to maintain decorum and do not support any such action which may result in any sort of disturbance. I feel working on better and peaceful solutions instead of coercion is the best way to deal with critical situations.

When did you first start writing? What inspired you? What does writing mean to you?

I like delivering my thoughts in a creative manner. I am fond of writing – it’s my favourite activity. In fact, writing is therapeutic for me. It acts as a stress-buster wherein I can vent out my thoughts and feelings. It makes me explore and learn new things. What led me to take up writing is that it provides you with a platform to express your feelings freely. I like human emotions and expressions and through writing I can articulate them well. I was in school when I wrote my first article.

What kind of books do you like to read?

I like to read about some breakthrough innovations, inspiring, life-changing, and motivational articles. I can read anything that captures my interest and makes me unfold something new.

Any favourite author and poet?

I like the writings of Anuja Chauhan

Any topic or poem you are currently working on?

Currently, I am working on scripts for advertisements.  

Besides writing, what are your other interests and hobbies?

I like sketching and painting 

Any key learning you have adapted through writing articles?

I always keep brushing my writing skills. I keep reading new articles and that adds to my writing.  My motto is: never settle for less when you can have more!