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“THE idea here is to give a boost to the literature of different Indian languages, by getting writers in direct contact with publishers from all over the world. Translation of various Indian works can be done into many languages of the world,’’ explains Rajvinder Singh, Poet Laurete of Germany, talking about the first International Literature Festival of India. To be held in Mumbai, between February 20 and 25, the festival will see about 100 chosen writers from all over the world, including Indian writers from various Indian languages, come together on a common platform. “Through the festival, the idea is to have a dialogue between various cultures and countries and what’s more, publishers will be able to find new writings and writers will have a chance to meet important publishing people,” says Singh, explaining the various aims of the festival and fair.
Literature, adds Singh, has played a constructive role not only in the formation and strengthening of nations, but also in the creation of good human beings and societies, and International PEN the world body of writers, critics and publishers, treats literature of the world as one, being written in different languages. “And India, as a great nation of the largest number of languages, cultures, and religions, has to play a significant role in this aspect,’’ says Singh, adding that the festival will be dynamic and will travel to different places each year. The vital needs, he adds is that of funds, and the festival, smiles Singh, will be almost like a talent search, and 15 writers from India will be part of the festival. “It’s been tough to zero-in on writers from Punjab, for the talent is immense, but we have Prof Gurdial, Surjit Patar, Jasbir Bhullar, Dr Gulzar Sandhu and Ajit Kaur on the list,’’ adds Singh.
Singh, along with two other writers Ulrich Schreiber from Germany and Carine Delplanque from France had a dialogue with Chandigarh writers in collaboration with Punjab Arts Council. “ I belong here and so, I felt, we should have a face-to-face with writers about the festival, here first,’’ says Singh. |