Prayagraj: With ‘Elysian – A Bridge Beyond Life’ (An anthology of metaphysical poems), K Rashi Badalia Kumar makes a remarkable contribution to contemporary English literature. This compelling collection of metaphysical poetry reaffirms her stature as a poet of depth, intellect and emotional resonance. The anthology traverses an expansive range of themes, from “Soul Lurks” to “I Yearn For Your Love,” from “Weal & Woe” to “Metamorphosis,” and from “Cosmic Womb” to “Rebirth.” Through these poems, Rashi meditates on life and death, realism and truth; and above all, the power of profound contemplation.
The foreword to the book is penned by Ms. Christine Marsh, Business Change Facilitator, Speaker and Author from England, United Kingdom. She writes: “K Rashi Badalia Kumar is a master of expressing deep sentiments, beliefs, and emotions by painting powerful images through her command of language that resonates using the quality of sound – deep, full, and reverberating. Her perspectives can be likened to viewing the world that surrounds us as if seen through a kaleidoscope changing endlessly in a beautiful form.
Metaphysical poetry is a 17th-century English style characterised by intellectual complexity, witty arguments, and surprising metaphors called “conceits” exploring deep themes of
death, religion, and reality. K Rashi Badalia Kumar’s writing illustrates her incredible span of knowledge and innate wisdom that captivates her audience.” A distinguished radio broadcaster and academician, Rashi’s effortless engagement with the unique genre of metaphysical poetry sets her apart. Her writing style combines intellectual depth with emotional clarity, making her voice both distinctive and memorable.
Prior to this anthology, she has authored works across fiction and non-fiction. Her previous publications include, ‘A Gift – Your Self-Help Companion to Life at Crossroads…’, ‘From My Attic – A Journey Through 108 Shades’ (an anthology of poems), ‘Pandora – A Collection of XXI thought-provoking stories’, ‘Two Zero One – Inspirational Quotes’, the revised 2023 edition of ‘A Gift’, and ‘Myriad Blooms – A Bouquet of 51 Blossoms (an anthology of poems). Currently, Rashi serves as Faculty of Radio Journalism, Communication Skills and Professional Ethics at Centre of Media Studies and Centre of Food Technology, Institute of Professional Studies, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to FM radio, she was honoured with the prestigious Rani Laxmi Bai Award by the Government of Uttar Pradesh in 2016, along with a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
Her international recognition includes her continued association with the Association for International Broadcasting (AIB), London. She has been selected as a member of the international jury panel for the AIB Awards 2025, marking the sixth consecutive year of her selection. Notably, she was one of only two women media professionals from India chosen that year. In 2024, 2023, 2021 and 2020, she served as the sole woman media professional from India on the jury panel. Earlier, in 2017, she was a finalist at the AIB Awards in the Presenter of the Year (Audio) category. Published by Simplicitè Books, ‘Elysian – A Bridge Beyond Life’ (An anthology of metaphysical poems) is now available on Amazon, Flipkart and Qurate Books.
