DIP: 18.02.1008/20261101 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/11011008 
Abstract
This paper examines the literary contributions of Vinod Joshi, a distinguished lyric poet in Gujarati literature celebrated for the profound emotional depth of his work. Joshi’s poetry vividly captures the nuanced emotional landscapes of various female subjects, including the longings of an enchanted fourteen-year-old virgin, a woman awaiting her husband in a meadow, and the sorrow of a parting girl. Notably, his songs transcend conventional rhythm-patterns, continually evolving into innovative forms. A versatile writer, Joshi has enriched Gujarati letters across multiple genres, including radio plays, criticism, novels, and acclaimed poetry collections such as Parantu, Jhalar Waage Juthadi, Tundil Tundika, and Shikhandi. Among these, Shikhandi stands out as a pioneering modern Khandkavya (narrative poem) that masterfully incorporates ancient myth within a structured Sanskrit cyclical framework, heavily influenced by the poetic system of the legendary poet Kant. Published during an era dominated by free verse (Achhandas), this cycle-bound masterpiece represents a major revelation in contemporary Gujarati poetry. Its critical acclaim is further cemented by its inclusion in the definitive anthology Best Gujarati Khandkavya, edited by Chinu Modi and Satish Vyas.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X