‘Literature helps in expanding creativity’

 

 

Staff Reporter

 

Sharing valuable insights about the transformative power of literature, celebrity actor, director, scriptwriter Atul Kulkarni said, “The journey of cinema starts with the script, which is itself a form of literature. Literature helps us expand our creativity, expand our thoughts.” Atul Kulkarni was speaking during the 6th edition of the Orange City Literature Festival (OCLF), organised by the Raisoni Foundation, which commenced with grandeur on Friday at the Chitnavis Center. This annual celebration of literature and culture opened with a series of impactful and inspiring events, promising to enrich minds and kindle creativity. Actor Atul Kulkarni was the chief guest along with Raisoni Group’s Chairman Sunil Raisoni; Shobha Raisoni; Varsha Manohar, Executive Director; RGI Shreyas Raisoni; Palakh Raisoni and Poetess

 

Arundhati Subramaniam. ”My interaction with literature began early, thanks to a very close friend of mine who was the same age as my grandfather. The first full book I read was a biography of Winston Churchill. I believe we should allow children to read all types of books without restrictions. Over time, they will choose what is best for them,” expressed Kulkarni. The audience was treated to a mesmerising Kathak performance by Priyanka Abhyankar and her group from Sanskar Kathak Kendra. Varsha Shashank Manohar formally welcomed the attendees and introduced the festival’s vision and ethos. Dr Ashutosh Paturkar was the moderator for the interactive session. Another key moment was the interactive session featuring Arundhati Subramaniam, acclaimed poet and author, in conversation with journalist Mandira Nayar, where they delved into themes from ‘Wild Women: Seekers, Protagonists, and Goddesses in Sacred Indian Poetry’. Subramaniam threw

 

light on large area of female spirituality, rebellion and sensuality that spans centuries. She told how this anthology is more than a collection of poems; it is a powerful reclamation of female voices that have long been sidelined or sanitised by patriarchal narratives. The evening also saw the much-awaited launch of the audiobook Mentormorphosis by Dr Akash Khurana, a renowned author, screenwriter, actor, and mentor, who highlighted the festival’s commitment to promoting diverse literary formats. Sunil Raisoni, Chairman of Raisoni Education and Lit Fest delivered address. Dr Mrunalini Naik, Project Director of OCLF proposed a vote of thanks. The festival will continue over the next two days, featuring an array of sessions with celebrated authors, poets, and thinkers from across the country. Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, book launches, interactive workshops, and much more.