Last night we were thrilled to bring back one of our favorite local writers, Pratibha Kelapure, in our Words&Music show at San Jose’s St. James Park. POW fans might remember her piece “Swimming Lessons,” as performed by Laurel Brittan back in June. This time we were treated to one of her lovely poems, “Mango Pulping.”

Pratibha is the founding editor of The Literary Nest Journal. She writes short fiction, literary essays, and poetry. In her previous life, she served the Silicon Valley as a VLSI Software Engineer. Other than that she is a wife, mother, and a community volunteer.

Recent Awards:
Honorable Mention for the poem “Monet on Her Mind” in the Los Gatos Poet Laureate Poetry Contest
First place in the South Bay Writers WritersTalk Essay Contest in January 2014, July 2014, and January 2015.
I have won several weekly flash fiction contests such as Flash! Friday Microfiction Contest, Finish That Thought, Monday Mixer, 55 Word Challenge, Midweek Blues Busters, and others.

Upcoming projects:
I would like to grow and nurture my online literary journal, The Literary Nest. In the coming months, I will feature some great guest poetry editors. The submissions are always open.

What inspired you to participate in Play On Words?

I participated in the June event, “Play On Words: Take Flight,” and I am impressed with the energy and professionalism of the Play On Words organizers and the community.

Which writers or performers inspire you?
The musical theater performers and dancers inspire with the flow of energy and grace of movements.

Name a book or performance that fundamentally affected you.
“My Fair Lady” was the very first musical I saw, and it inspired me for several reasons: the class commentary, perseverance of human spirit, and witty dialogue, not to mention graceful dancing.

Our July 14 show was made possible through the generosity of The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, in partnership with the San Jose Downtown Association.