Exclusive Conversation with eminent Calligrapher Shri Inku Kumar, an initiative by Art Nirbhar Bharat
Featuring:
- Shri Inku Kumar, Eminent Calligrapher and Mentor (Art Nirbhar Bharat)
- Dr. Ankur Sharan, Social Change Maker and Founder of Art Nirbhar Bharat in association with Global Confederation of NGOs
Achievers Talk :
Welcome to this very special edition of Achievers Talk in association with Art Nirbhar Bharat, where we delve into art forms that go beyond aesthetics — connecting deeply with our mind and soul. Today, we are joined by two incredible personalities: the nationally celebrated calligraphy expert Shri Inku Kumar, and the visionary social reformer Dr. Ankur Sharan, who is taking writing and art to grassroots levels through Art Nirbhar Bharat.
Our topic today is: Why Writing is Important for Your Mental and Emotional Connection — a subject that might sound old-school in the age of smartphones, but in fact, it’s more relevant than ever.
Dr. Ankur Sharan:
We often talk about innovation, AI, gadgets and multitasking. But the truth is, writing — especially by hand — is a natural and powerful tool for self-reflection and development. It’s not just a medium of communication but a spiritual and emotional therapy. That’s why at Art Nirbhar Bharat, we have been organizing workshops promoting the habit of writing — from school students to working professionals. I have been part of Hindustan Times Literature Festival and now after COVID, it’s time to empower Art in more prominent way to celebrate mental and emotional health by following your passion.
Achievers Talk :
Beautifully said. And who better to explore this with than Shri Inku Kumar — a name synonymous with elegance in calligraphy and a mentor to thousands of handwriting enthusiasts across India.
Shri Inku Kumar, welcome! Please tell us about your journey.
Shri Inku Kumar:
Namaste. My journey began in Delhi, from simple curiosity to a deep passion for the art of lettering. I’ve spent over two decades in the field of calligraphy & Design field, not just refining strokes and styles, but understanding why writing matters. I’ve mentored over thousands of students — schoolchildren, design professionals, volunteers, even retired teachers — and one thing remains constant: the transformation they feel when they reconnect with writing.
Handwriting is a mirror of your mind. The moment your hand moves on paper, your thoughts get clarity. Unlike typing, writing slows you down — in a good way. It lets you reflect. Your brain processes emotions, ideas, and learning more deeply.
Dr. Ankur Sharan:
That’s why I often say — writing is meditation. It’s a deeply personal act that brings clarity, calmness, and connection to one’s inner self. I consider myself truly fortunate to have crossed paths with Inku Sir back in 2015 — a meeting that not only inspired me but also sparked my own journey into the world of calligraphy. His passion, discipline, and grace with every stroke became a guiding force for me.
At Art Nirbhar Bharat, we are on a mission to revive this forgotten treasure of handwriting. Through our school-level handwriting improvement programs — particularly in rural and underserved communities — we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations. When children begin to write regularly, something beautiful happens: their focus sharpens, their patience deepens, and their self-confidence blossoms.
A great mentor can change your life. Watching someone as dedicated as Inku Sir — and being mentored by him — taught me that inspiration isn’t just about admiration; it’s about action. When you’re guided by someone who lives their art, you naturally feel driven to explore your own. That’s the essence of true mentorship — it awakens your passion and motivates you to pass it forward.
Achievers Talk :
Very inspiring! Shri Inku Kumar, we heard you emphasize the need to avoid giving ball pens and gel pens to young children. Could you share why that’s important?
Shri Inku Kumar:
Yes — it’s a very important point. The foundation of writing is in the feel of the pen. In our childhood, we used to write with fountain pens or even dip pens. They require control, consistent hand pressure, and muscle coordination. This builds motor skills, posture, and above all, patience.
But today, children are using ball pens and gel pens from an early age. These don’t build the hand’s core strength. Their grip remains weak, and their handwriting never truly develops. It’s like expecting a child to run before they learn to walk.
That’s why in all my workshops, I strongly recommend starting with pencil, followed by fountain pens. The flow of ink from a fountain pen creates a psychological connect. It demands your attention.
Dr. Ankur Sharan:
We’ve introduced this idea in our community schools too. The results are amazing. Children feel proud of their writing. They start journaling. We also initiated the “Write to Reflect” campaign with senior citizens — encouraging them to write their memories and emotions. The mental health benefits have been phenomenal.
Achievers Talk :
This is extraordinary. What other initiatives are in the pipeline?
Dr. Ankur Sharan:
We are soon launching the “Handwriting Revival Yatra” in collaboration with Inku Sir, exclusive session during Summer Camp. We’ll hold workshops, interactive sessions with parents and teachers, and competitions that promote handwriting as a skill and expression.
We’re also creating an Art Nirbhar Writing Kit — with calligraphy pens, fountain pens, story prompts, and blank journals. It’s not just about writing better — it’s about writing more meaningfully.
Shri Inku Kumar:
Yes, and I am truly honored to be part of this meaningful movement. I always say — “The pen doesn’t just write, it listens.” When we translate our emotions into words, we begin to heal. For children, especially, writing offers a space where they feel seen and understood — something that’s increasingly lost in today’s gadget-dominated world.
Working alongside Dr. Ankur Sharan has always been a rewarding experience. He’s not just a passionate change-maker but also a dear friend and collaborator. Over the years, we’ve shared a common vision through various initiatives, and now, with the powerful platform of Art Nirbhar Bharat, we are embarking on a journey that promises to inspire many. This movement is not just about reviving handwriting — it’s about reigniting creativity, mindfulness, and meaningful expression across generations.
Achievers Talk :
If there’s one message you’d give to parents and educators watching this, what would it be?
Shri Inku Kumar:
Please don’t underestimate the power of handwriting. Give children the time and tools to write. It’s not just about neat letters, it’s about shaping thoughts and character.
Dr. Ankur Sharan:
And remember — writing is not just for marks or exams. It’s a life skill, a mindfulness practice. Let’s bring it back to our homes and schools.
Achievers Talk :
Thank you both for this incredibly deep and powerful conversation. On behalf of Achievers Talk and Art Nirbhar Bharat, we salute your efforts. Writing is not obsolete — it’s timeless. And with mentors like Shri Inku Kumar and visionaries like Dr. Ankur Sharan, this tradition will rise again.
Stay tuned for more updates and join the Handwriting Revival Movement — one word at a time.
For workshops, campaigns, and collaborations, reach out to
Art Nirbhar Bharat | Achievers Talk | Calligraphy with Inku Kumare-mail: achieverstalk22@gmail.com