MERAKI - The English Literary Society

Meraki – The English Literary Society, founded in 2016 by its visionary founder president, Manchit Sachdeva, is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of words. Starting an English Literary Society in a commerce-focused institution was no small feat. Convincing a community immersed in numbers, accounts, and business strategies of the value of literature and creative expression was a challenge. Yet, with unwavering determination and the belief that art and words can transcend barriers, Meraki was born, carving out a space for creativity in a seemingly unlikely environment.

Meraki is not just a society—it is the heart and soul of creative expression in the college. Here, we believe that every thought, no matter how fleeting, holds the power to resonate, transform, and connect. Formed with the intention of creating a platform that celebrates the art of expression through words, Meraki has evolved into a sanctuary for writers, poets, and dreamers to pour their essence into language, capturing the beauty and complexity of life. Under the guidance of its convenor, Ms. Jasjit Kaur, Meraki has established itself as a safe haven where individuals can come together to explore and appreciate the richness of the English language, even within the pragmatic context of a commerce college.

The society is a playground for students who wish to play with words—both written and spoken. It is a vibrant learning community where creativity flourishes, ideas are celebrated, and every voice is valued. Through its activities and initiatives, Meraki fosters skills and confidence, encouraging members to use English as a powerful tool to convey their ideas, feelings, and thoughts. The mission of the society is to nurture a generation of eloquent orators and expressive writers, capable of leaving a lasting impact through their words.

Meraki’s Annual Magazine, Meraki World, serves as an extension of this mission. Each edition unravels a unique theme, inviting contributors to delve into their inner worlds and channel their emotions into poetry, prose, and reflections that stir the soul. Beyond the magazine, the society hosts a variety of engaging events that highlight the richness of literature and storytelling. Its flagship literary festival, Seshat, has featured iconic events such as Verse(atile) – The Symphony of Souls, a slam poetry competition; Afsaane – A Journey with the Storysmiths; and Tashkeel: Tell A Tale. Each event celebrates the creative spirit, inviting participants to explore new dimensions of storytelling and expression.

The society’s journey also includes Lights, Camera, Words!, an enchanting open mic afternoon that blends poetry, music, and prose, bringing together poets from across DU and other institutions, as well as well-known artists, to create an unforgettable experience for audiences. Meraki’s first-ever event, Blind Date with Words, an online microfiction writing competition, has grown exponentially, attracting over 200 participants from across India this year.

Meraki goes beyond events—it is about discovering a world within this world, where words become tools to explore, express, and connect. Through regular meetings, members engage in writing exercises, book discussions, and group debates, drawing inspiration from the classics and crafting new narratives of their own. The society encourages members to write about what they love, critique what they dislike, and reflect on their own lives and experiences. Intra-society competitions provide opportunities for growth, while workshops and seminars with established writers, poets, and public speakers offer inspiration and practical insights into the craft.

At its core, Meraki is about embracing the magic of words and letting them shape us into better thinkers, speakers, and creators. It is a place where imagination soars, creativity flourishes, and the power of words leaves a lasting impact. Whether you’re a reader in search of inspiration or a writer eager to share your story, Meraki welcomes you to a journey of growth, connection, and endless possibilities.