Another topic covered was “Selling Out or Telling it Like it is? Getting Real in South Asian Literature” with international and national authors P Sivakami, Shazia Omar, Alka Saraogi, and Rabi Thapa bringing attention to the politicization of female writers and discussing marginalized authors in Nepal.[break]
Several sessions discussed languages, be it the future of Nepali Bhasa with Nepali writers Archana Thapa, Rajendra Bimal, Narayan Wagle and Buddhi Sagar, writing in two different languages like Urdu and English with acclaimed Pakistani journalist and writer Mohammed Hanif, or discussing the Newar Bhasa with translator Subarna Man Tuladhar.
Amidst all of the talking, discussing and questioning, the audience at one session was privy to a solo performance by Parnab Mukherjee who entertained the audience with a tribute to Rabindranath Tagore in “Parable of the Last Post Office.”
The monologue with only a handful of props was unique in its presentation and a hit with its commentary on the world, society, technology, and life.
Dipti Scherchan, who attended all three days of the festival says, “As a student interested in literature the environment was inspiring.
There was a lot of content, many speakers and a lot of discussion but what is imporatnat is that they were here to talk about it. Kathmandu Literary Jatra is a space for people who love literature.”
She adds, “I actually enjoyed the sessions in Nepali more than the ones in English, especially “Immersed in Literature” with Abhi Subedi.”
With the first Kathmandu Literary Jatra behind her, Suvani Singh, festival director, says “We will most certainly try to make it happen every year. It will happen if this event continues to enjoy the support we have received this time.”
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