Chandigarh : The literary world is abuzz as ‘Literati 2023’, the trilingual International Literature festival of Chandigarh, approaches, promising an unforgettable celebration of words, ideas and culture. One of the oldest literary events of the country, the Literati Literati, a non-aligned, not for profit festival that is open to all and aims to encourage young minds to read and participate, shall take place on November 24, 25 and 26th. The underlying theme of the 11th edition of Literati, Chandigarh International Literature Festival ias ‘connect, converse and create’.
The event will see a stellar line-up of speakers, luminaries, bestselling authors and celebrated artists take centre stage and engage in invigorating interactions. A world famous star, a popular stand-up comedian, an international Booker prize winner, a firebrand officer, a TedX speaker, the salt man of India, storytellers of an ancient form and renowned bestsellers.
Announcing the details of Literati, the Festival Director and founder Chairperson Chandigarh Literary Society (CLS), Dr Sumita Misra (IAS) said, “The Chandigarh International Lit Fest is one of the most awaited events of the year. And keeping in sync with tradition, we will be showcasing a diverse array of renowned authors, thought provoking panel discussions and exciting literary experiences.” From famous comedian Gaurav Gupta, bestselling writers Ashwin Sanghi, Amish and Bhavna Roy, International Booker winner Geetanjali Shree to firebrands Meeran Chadha Borwankar (IPS), Meghna Pant, Manjari Chaturvedi, from turbanator Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi, maverick foodster Sadaf Hussain to the bold and beautiful Kabir Bedi, Punjab’s favourite Harf Cheema and Amitoj Maan, from award winning filmmaker Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, editor and film buff Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri, to youngest santoor maestro Pt Abhay Rustum Sopori, prolific writer Pragati Deshmukh, publishing wiz Lipika Bhushan and founder of country’s premier travelling literary festival, Sumant Batra – the attendees are in for a literary treat. The three-day festival will be hosted by the Chandigarh Literary Society with support from the UT Administration.
The inaugural event of Literati shall have famous comedian Gaurav Gupta take centre stage on November 24, at The Tagore Theatre, with his witty quips and laugh out loud observational humour. The group of Music-e-Mystic will present a soul stirring rendition of Sufi music at this cultural event. The passes for Gaurav Gupta show are available on BookMyShow.
“Our aim and dream has always been to make Chandigarh the destination of choice for literature lovers, and for the festival to reflect the modern and vibrant spirit of Chandigarh. This year too we shall be hosting renowned authors and speakers in captivating discussions and sessions in multiple languages, exploring a diverse range of subjects from dharma of a writer to the state of stories in Punjab to medium of expression to food tales and power of idol worship. There are exclusive performances including Dastan-e-Ram and spoken word by Roop Kaur Kooner and Paridhi Kalotara Aggarwal. Don’t miss the podcast Kahani Kasheeda and book launches,” says Dr Misra.
Shedding light on ‘Navras’, the theme for this year’s festival, Dr Misra refers to ancient Indian texts, and the nine emotions that explore the stages and phases of life. She says, “Shringara that explores love and beauty; Hasya that evokes joy, humour and laughter; Karuna which stirs sorrow, grief; Raudra fires up rage and anger; Veera reflects heroism and courage; Bhayanka raises terror, fear; Bheebatsya evokes disgust; Adbutha leaves with surprise and wonder while Shantha brings peace and tranquillity. It’s from these human expressions, experiences and impressions that stories emerge.”
November 25th and 26th will be replete with inquisitive and creative minds leading interesting and brilliant in depth conversations on the Dharma of a writer, the greatest stories from Punjab and the timeless tradition and culture of India, idol worship and its power, the impact and relevance of two prominent minds on the Indian society, the new age of the contemporary Hindi novel, how food is at the epicentre of our existence, OTT, cinema and theatre, and how Punjabi cinema has grown over the years.
“We would also like to thank our partners and sponsors for their generous support. They’ve played a pivotal role in ensuring this event is a success,” Dr Misra extends her thanks to the Government of Haryana, UT Administration, Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi, hospitality partner Hyatt Regency, radio partner Red FM, Ashoka University, Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi, Vedica, Vodafone, E&B, Pataaree Studios, Rangaai Studio, Mozimo chocolates and Rhyvers Publishing.
