‘Rohtang: Aar Paar’ – A Literary Journey Through the Himalayas to Be Released at World Book Fair

Shimla/New Delhi: The World Book Fair will witness the release of Rohtang: Aar Paar, a new non-fiction book by noted Hindi poet and writer Ajey from Lahaul-Spiti.

Published by Aadhar Prakashan, Panchkula, this 260-page paperback delves deep into the Himalayas—an enduring theme in all of Ajey’s works, whether poetry, memoirs, travelogues, essays, or commentary.

The book offers a personal and reflective exploration of the Himalayan landscape, with a particular focus on Lahaul-Spiti, the author’s native region.

Unlike conventional travelogues, Rohtang: Aar Paar is an intimate account of the mountains, their people, and their fragile ecology.

Ajey's writing does not consciously set out to highlight specific issues; instead, his socio-cultural, ecological, and geopolitical concerns naturally weave into his narrative.

Covering a span of 60 years (1965–2025), the book revisits Ajey’s memories and travels across remote Himalayan regions like Sumnam, Bargul, Keylong, Spiti, Miyar, and Ladakh, as well as urban centers like Chandigarh, Kullu, Shimla, Solan, and Mandi.

His deep-rooted connection with these places and their evolving landscapes forms the core of his storytelling.

Speaking about his work, Ajey said, “My travelogues aren’t like those of typical tourists. They capture the concerns of the mountains, their people, and the delicate balance of their ecology and social fabric.”

Renowned Hindi poet and critic Professor Satyapal Sehgal, after reviewing the manuscript, remarked, “This book will be read like an insider’s affidavit on the Himalayas.”

Ajey echoes this sentiment, hoping that Rohtang: Aar Paar carves its niche in the literary world as an authentic voice from the heart of the Himalayas.