Lucknow: The much-anticipated Metaphor Lucknow LitFest 2024 commenced with grandeur and fervor, celebrating the vibrant cultural and literary heritage of Lucknow. This year’s festival, set against the golden warmth of winter sunlight, brought together an eclectic mix of scholars, artists, and literature enthusiasts from across the nation. The opening day was marked by a harmonious blend of tributes, discussions, book launches, storytelling, and musical performances, setting the stage for a literary extravaganza.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Professor Raj Bisaria
The festival began on an emotional note with a tribute to Professor Raj Bisaria, a legendary figure widely regarded as the pioneer of modern theatre in India. The ceremony, attended by his wife, family members, and a host of admirers, offered a poignant reflection on his immense contributions to the arts and education. Former students and colleagues shared personal anecdotes, highlighting the profound impact of his teachings on their lives and careers.
Shobha Bajpai, one of the speakers, eloquently remarked, “The search for oneself begins with one’s roots,” emphasizing the importance of heritage, a principle Professor Bisaria upheld throughout his illustrious career. His students’ narratives underscored his dedication to nurturing creativity and critical thinking, making the session a fitting homage to a cultural luminary. The audience was moved by the stories of his relentless efforts to shape Lucknow’s cultural landscape and his unwavering belief in the power of the arts to transform society.
Celebrating Awadhi Language and Literature
A standout session of the day was dedicated to the Awadhi language, delving into its elegance and cultural significance. Esteemed speakers, including Padma Shri Vidya Bindoo Singh, Yatindra Mishra, and Dr. Shobha Bajpai, explored the role of folk languages in preserving cultural identity and enriching human connections.
Yatindra Mishra passionately advocated for the revival of Awadhi, stating, “We must teach our children our language, folk language, and Awadhi at home, and speak to them in Awadhi. Only then will the spread of the Awadhi language in society be paved.” The discussion highlighted the deep human emotions embedded in folk literature and the importance of respecting nature and traditions, as vividly portrayed in Awadhi idioms and stories.
Vidya Bindoo Singh shared captivating practices rooted in folk traditions, such as waking up wells before drawing water, which added a poetic dimension to everyday life. The session concluded with a collective call to action—to respect and nurture regional languages as a means of preserving their rich heritage.
Literary Highlights: “All the Colors of Snow”
The launch of the Hindi translation of the German book Barf Ke Sabhi Rang (All the Colors of Snow) by Dr. Shipra Chaturvedi was another highlight of the day. The book captures the experiences of a Spanish writer living in the Swiss village of Gent, exploring themes of identity and belonging. Dr. Chaturvedi shared how the myriad emotions, much like the different colors of snow, shaped the narrative.
Experts such as Professor Neeraj Chaubey and Dr. Sudhakar Aadeeb lauded the book’s nuanced exploration of identity in today’s globalized world. The audience engaged deeply with the discussion, finding resonance in the themes of self-discovery and cultural assimilation.
Poetry, Storytelling, and Women’s Voices
In an emotionally charged session titled Sadia Ki Zabani, Sadia explored the status of women in society through poignant stories. Her narration of Sundarlal and Lajwanti’s tale struck a chord with the audience, shedding light on themes of abuse, redemption, and societal expectations.
The session painted a vivid picture of women’s resilience during challenging times, especially during the Partition of India. Sadia’s storytelling left listeners deeply moved, prompting reflections on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring spirit of women.
Poet and storyteller Sadia captivated the audience with her poignant narrative, weaving anecdotes to reflect the societal position of women. Through a story set during the Partition of India, she illustrated the plight of women in turbulent times.
The story of Sundarlal and Lajwanti was particularly striking. Lajwanti, a victim of domestic abuse, found herself abducted during the Partition. Upon her return, Sundarlal’s attitude shifted, questioning whether she was mistreated in Pakistan. Lajwanti’s response—acknowledging fear among strangers but not with Sundarlal despite his abuse—offered a stark commentary on normalized violence within relationships.
“The Boys from UP” – A Blend of Humor and Insight
The session UP Zindabad – These Boys from UP! brought a refreshing mix of humor and insight. Featuring Faisal Malik, Divya Prakash, and Saurabh Yadav, the discussion was an engaging exploration of the journeys of artists rooted in Uttar Pradesh.
Divya Prakash’s witty observation, “Believe me, those who write love stories often don’t have one of their own,” drew laughter from the audience, while Faisal Malik’s reflections on how his roots influenced his acting career resonated deeply. The session struck a fine balance between wit and wisdom, leaving the audience entertained and inspired.
Conversations on Cinema and Culinary Traditions
In a special conversation with Aviral Jain, Faisal Malik delved into the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. He emphasized the need for thoughtful storytelling, urging aspiring filmmakers to read widely and engage deeply with their craft. The session provided a compelling look at the intersection of literature and cinema in contemporary times.
Adding a culinary dimension to the festival, Pankaj Bhadouria and Manzilat Fatima traced the journey of Awadhi cuisine. Manzilat’s narration of how Wajid Ali Shah’s exile introduced potatoes to biryani added a historical touch to the discussion. The session highlighted how Lucknow’s food heritage is as celebrated as its cultural legacy, leaving the audience with a newfound appreciation for culinary traditions.
AI Insights: The Human Element
A thought-provoking session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) explored its potential and limitations. Manish Pandey shared an optimistic outlook, stating, “AI will not replace humans; you need to keep upgrading yourself.” He emphasized that while AI offers efficiency and diverse perspectives, it lacks the emotional depth that defines humanity. The discussion reaffirmed the importance of emotional intelligence in an increasingly digital world.
Cultural Icons: Hariprasad Chaurasia and Imtiaz Ali
The evening sessions featured two cultural stalwarts. Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia inaugurated the festival by lighting the ceremonial lamp and shared insights from his illustrious journey in Indian classical music. The audience cherished the opportunity to interact with the maestro, who also signed copies of his books.
Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali followed with a riveting discussion titled India Through Cinema. Using iconic clips from his films, Ali explored how cinema reflects Indian culture and identity. Sharing anecdotes from his creative process, he offered the audience a glimpse into the stories behind his beloved characters. The session was a treat for cinephiles, deepening their appreciation for storytelling through cinema.
The Lucknow LitFest 2024 saw a blend of powerful discussions and remarkable literary events, providing a platform for critical thought and creative expression.
Panel Discussion: “Syah Bhi, Safed Bhi Hoti Hai Striyan”
This session brought together distinguished speakers—Ranu Uniyal, Pragya Pandey, Usha Rai, and Joshna Banerjee—who shed light on the intricate layers of women’s exploitation within households and explored pathways toward empowerment.
Joshna Banerjee’s compelling assertion, “Bolney Se Hi Hoga” (Change will only happen if we speak up), served as a rallying cry, urging women to vocalize their struggles and resist societal pressures that silence them. She emphasized the transformative power of dialogue in breaking oppressive cycles.
Ranu Uniyal and Pragya Pandey delved into the nuances of control and abuse—both overt and covert—that women face domestically. Their insights highlighted the importance of recognizing these patterns and initiating open conversations to challenge them. Usha Rai, drawing attention to persistent patriarchal structures, advocated for collective efforts to foster gender equality within the home.
Launch of “Colonial Lucknow: Burra Sahib and Chota Hazry” by PC Sarkar
The festival also featured the successful launch of PC Sarkar’s latest book, “Colonial Lucknow: Burra Sahib and Chota Hazry.” Under the auspices of Metaphor Lucknow LitFest 2024, this work offers an engaging exploration of Lucknow’s colonial history and culture.
Special acknowledgments were extended to Kanak Rekha Chauhan for her instrumental role in the event’s success, alongside heartfelt gratitude to readers and supporters who celebrated the occasion.
The Lucknow LitFest 2024 once again reaffirmed its position as a hub of intellectual and literary engagement, leaving audiences inspired and enriched.
The Metaphor Lucknow LitFest 2024 promises an exciting lineup in the days to come, with more thought-provoking sessions, captivating performances, and engaging conversations. From discussions on women’s empowerment to insights into modern literature and cultural heritage, the festival is set to continue as a vibrant celebration of creativity and intellectual discourse. Lucknow, with its timeless charm, once again proves to be a beacon of art and culture, bringing together the past and present in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The first day of the LitFest concluded on a soulful note with a qawwali performance set to the enchanting rhythms of Anandmai Raag. The performance left the audience spellbound, providing a perfect end to a day filled with intellectual and cultural enrichment.
