Lucknow: Metaphor LitFest witnessed two thought-provoking sessions as acclaimed filmmaker Sudhir Mishra engaged in enriching conversations that explored the power of cinema, literature, and the complex ideas of land, identity and inheritance.
In the first session, Sudhir Mishra was in dialogue with Jaideep Narayan Mathur, where the veteran filmmaker underlined cinema’s role as a guide to life, shaped and sustained by its audience. Emphasising the rise of strong independent voices, Mishra cited filmmakers such as Payal Kapadia, Mira Nair and Aparna Sen as examples of fearless storytelling redefining Indian cinema. He asserted that a true filmmaker is one who dares to address controversial subjects without compromise. According to him, the best stories are balanced—humble yet aggressive—and are born from lived experiences, observation and imagination, urging young aspirants to read novels, remain curious, ask questions and carve their own paths by taking the first step.
Earlier in the day, Metaphor LitFest opened its Baithak series with the launch of Battle of Lands by Dr. Vandita, in conversation with Sudhir Mishra, Editor-in-Chief of Navbharat Times. The discussion delved into how land, identity and inheritance often become the root of both personal and political conflicts. Mishra linked the protagonist Sumodha’s journey to everyday human struggles and wider global tensions—from Gaza to India-Pakistan relations—observing that greed over land frequently results in irreversible loss. He also reflected on his own life choices, sharing his conscious decision to stay away from property-related disputes.
Dr. Vandita spoke about internal conflicts, childhood trauma and emotional “de-rootedness,” explaining how these elements shape her characters. She also highlighted concerns around environmental anxiety, irresponsible land acquisition and rising consumerism. The dialogue expanded into ideas of sustainable living, terrace gardening and waste segregation, with both speakers agreeing that true inheritance lies not in property, but in instilling responsibility and values.
Together, the sessions reinforced Metaphor LitFest’s commitment to fostering meaningful conversations that bridge art, society and lived realities.
