A solemn memorial service was held on Wednesday evening to honor the late Shailesh Kumar, former president of IPTA Palamu. Colleagues from IPTA and the cultural fraternity gathered to pay tribute, remembering his significant contributions and unique personality. Kumar, a dedicated educator by profession, actively participated in social and cultural spheres alongside his teaching duties. He led IPTA Palamu, bolstering the organization’s cultural movements. Notably, his father, Valmiki Singh, was also a principal and an IPTA Palamu president, a legacy Shailesh Kumar carried forward, energizing movements for unity and progressive values. Despite his specialization in geography, Kumar harbored a profound passion for literature, particularly poetry, with his works reflecting sharp political satire and profound life insights. After his wife’s passing, he took voluntary retirement and resided in Delhi with his sons. Nevertheless, he remained connected to IPTA Palamu’s activities via phone, commending initiatives like the cultural school. The service concluded with IPTA Palamu Secretary Ravi Shankar expressing condolences and stating that upholding Kumar’s ethos would be the truest tribute. Attendees observed two minutes of silence in his memory. The gathering included notable cultural figures and activists, with many others sending their tributes digitally.
