Global minds discuss democracy, arts and culture at Bhubaneswar event

Bhubaneswar witnessed a vibrant convergence of intellect and creativity as the Kalinga Literary Festival 2026 continued its second day at the Mayfair Convention. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as poets, policymakers, filmmakers, and scientists gathered to dissect the pressing issues of our time, ranging from the nuances of translation to the pillars of parliamentary democracy.

Founder and Director Rashmi Ranjan Parida emphasized the festival's core philosophy, noting that literature extends far beyond books. He highlighted how the sessions reflected everyday struggles, gender discourse, and the vitality of democracy.

Democracy and Diplomacy Take Center Stage

One of the most engaging sessions featured Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh. In a profound dialogue, he explored the sanctity of the Indian Parliament and the Constitution, stressing the importance of public trust. Adding a global perspective, former UN Assistant Secretary-General Lakshmi Puri discussed women’s leadership and the intricate world of international diplomacy.

Bridging Cultures Through Words and Screen

Translation and storytelling were major themes throughout the day. Booker Prize-winning author Deepa Bhasthi and translator Daisy Rockwell examined how language bridges cultural divides. Meanwhile, the realm of mythology and retelling found its voice with authors like Anand Neelakantan and Anuja Chandramouli.

Cinema enthusiasts were treated to insightful discussions on the responsibility of OTT platforms and filmmakers. Renowned directors Sudhir Mishra and Nila Madhab Panda deliberated on the evolving landscape of visual storytelling. Science also found its place in the literary narrative, with physicist Prof. Bedangadas Mohanty describing scientific discovery as a form of storytelling.

Celebrating Odisha’s Roots

The festival remained deeply rooted in local culture. Sessions dedicated to mother tongue poetry celebrated Odisha’s literary heritage. The evening concluded with a focus on the future of Odia cinema and a rhythmic performance of ‘Divine Beats’ by Mardala players, perfectly capping off a day where the Kalinga Literary Festival 2026 proved itself as a powerhouse of ideas.