The Author In Me (AIM) Literary Festival 2024 organised a captivating curtain-raiser at Nehru Centre in London last week to mark the formal flag-off for this year’s celebration of diverse voices and emerging talent.
The event, organised in collaboration with South Asian Heritage Month, was a big success, drawing literary enthusiasts, authors, and artists from across the country. The annual festival celebrates a vibrant tapestry of stories, cultures, and creative expressions, focusing on the theme of diversity in literature and art.
Thought-provoking dialogue
One of the event's standout moments was an engaging panel discussion on diversity in literature. The powerful panel featured Sanchita Basu De Sarkar, winner of the Children's Bookshop of the Year award, and Priyanka Pandya, author of the upcoming picture book ‘When Mummy Got Cancer’, alongside festival curator Monica Sood. The discussion, moderated by journalist Loveena Tandon, delved into the crucial role diverse voices play in shaping contemporary narratives.
The panellists explored topics such as representation in publishing, the power of storytelling to bridge cultural gaps, and the need for greater inclusivity in the literary world. The discussion ignited meaningful conversations that are sure to continue well beyond the festival.
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Mesmerising fusion
Another highlight of the evening was a stunning dance adaptation of a poem from the book ‘The Voice of Kali’. The performance, choreographed by award-winning Kuchipudi dancer Arunima Kumar and narrated by the book’s acclaimed author, Ekta Bajaj, captivated the audience.
The powerful interpretation of themes such as strength, resilience, and transformation were brought to life through a graceful yet intense performance, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Folklores and poetry recitals
The festival also paid homage to the richness of oral traditions with an enchanting session dedicated to folklores from various cultures. Storytellers enthralled the audience with age-old tales, skilfully blending tradition with modern perspectives. This was followed by a series of poetry recitals, where both established and emerging poets shared their work, offering a diverse range of voices and themes that resonated deeply with listeners.
Another key feature of the festival was the spotlight on young authors, showcasing the next generation of literary talent. These rising stars took the stage to share excerpts from their debut works, displaying a remarkable range of genres and styles. The session underscored the boundless creativity and fresh perspectives that young writers bring to the literary landscape.
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Looking Ahead
In a special session, Ekta Bajaj engaged in a lively discussion about her forthcoming inspirational book ‘Let the Fish Fly’. She discussed the inspiration behind her new work, which explores themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the unyielding quest for liberation. Attendees were also treated to an exclusive preview of the book, heightening anticipation for its official release in October 2024 – during the AIM Literary Festival’s week-long celebrations.
Curated by the award-winning small press, Author In Me, the festival will begin with a Storytellers’ Gala Inaugural Evening at the French Library, followed by book launches, discussions, and workshops at the British Library and other locations in London. The festival will conclude with a day dedicated to young authors on October 19, celebrated in collaboration with the Roald Dahl Museum.
*Info: AIM Literary Festival 2024