Global Experts Discuss Future Of Literature And Civilisational Memory
Mayfair Convention and Mayfair Lagoon buzzed with intellectual energy on January 10 as the 12th Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) entered its third day. Writers, filmmakers, and thinkers from across the globe gathered in Odisha’s capital, turning the venue into a vibrant melting pot of ideas, ranging from ancient civilisational ties to the future of Artificial Intelligence.
Cinema, Crime, and Creativity
Star power blended with serious literature as former IPS officer and author Amit Lodha took the stage. His session, "Life and Literature in Khaki," offered a gripping look into the intersection of law enforcement and storytelling. Similarly, the world of cinema was well-represented by acclaimed filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, who discussed the role of filmmakers as public intellectuals. The dialogue extended to "Cinema with a Purpose," featuring Nila Madhab Panda, highlighting how films act as catalysts for social change.
Bridging Borders and Eras
Cross-cultural exchange remained a core theme of the 12th Kalinga Literary Festival. A standout session titled "Sri Lanka and Kalinga: A Shared Heritage" explored the deep historical roots connecting the island nation with Odisha. Meanwhile, discussions on the "Globalization of Nepali Literature" brought regional narratives to a broader stage.
Women’s voices echoed strongly throughout the day. Sessions like "Utkalika" celebrated leading Odia women writers, including Sarojini Sahu and Paramita Satpathy, while global perspectives were shared in "Words Without Walls," featuring luminaries like Daisy Rockwell and Lakshmi Puri.
Future-Gazing and Policy
Beyond fiction, the festival tackled pressing real-world transitions. Dr. Rajiv Kumar led thought-provoking discussions on India’s position in global shifts. Simultaneously, the impact of technology on creativity was scrutinized in "Stories in the Time of AI," where experts debated if machines could ever truly replicate human storytelling.
An Evening of Verse
As the sun set, the atmosphere shifted from debate to melody. A special Hindi Mushaira captivated the audience, featuring poetic maestros like Azhar Iqbal and Mumtaz Naseem. Their soulful verses provided a perfect conclusion to a day of intense dialogue.
Reflecting on the day's success, KLF Founder Rashmi Ranjan Parida noted that the sessions were not just literary but "deeply civilisational," fostering dialogue without borders. The festival continues to serve as a beacon for free thought and cultural pride in South Asia.
