Dateline Pune: Valley of Words (VoW), the Literature and Art Festival, is collaborating with Indus International School and FLAME University Pune to host the ‘Young Adults Vertical ’ segment today. This partnership marks the first time the event is being held in Pune, creating a unique opportunity to bring literature and the arts closer to young audiences in the city.
The event will feature four prominent authors from VoW: General Ian Cardozo, author of Cartoos Saab; Mugdha Sinha, who wrote Postcard Poems; Probal Dasgupta, known for Camouflaged: Forgotten Stories from Battlefields; and Shabnam Minwalla, author of Zen. The authors will engage with young readers and share insights into their works, focusing on themes that resonate with the youth. The hour long sessions will provide a platform for discussing various aspects of the curated books, including their inspirations, storytelling techniques, and the key messages behind their writings.
Festival Director Dr. Sanjeev Chopra and Shalini Rao, curator of the “Iti Nritya” vertical, will represent Valley of Words at the event. Dr. Chopra states, “In many ways, Pune is the natural twin city to Dehradun. Both are centers of education and learning, both have picturesque landscapes, both have been hubs of political activism, and both have a tradition of critical reading and discussions supported by an active network of libraries, reading clubs, bookstores, and cafes that encourage browsing. It is no surprise, then, that VoW is thrilled to partner with Indus International School and FLAME University for the Deccan edition of VoW.”
As part of this collaboration, Indus International School will also host a photography exhibition, adding to the festival’s creative atmosphere. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Sandeep Chhabra, Principal of Indus International School and recent recipient of the EduLeader of the Year award, the school is committed to providing a holistic educational experience. Mr. Chhabra says, “This dynamic event seeks to nurture a love for reading among children, providing them with a unique opportunity to interact with authors and explore diverse literary themes.”
Alongside the exhibition, four simultaneous sessions with the authors will be held, and students will have the unique opportunity to moderate these discussions. This interactive format aims to encourage critical thinking, foster dialogue, and inspire a deeper appreciation for literature among young adults.
FLAME University will contribute to the event by hosting a panel discussion as part of their own literature festival, Epilogue. This collaborative panel will provide additional insights and perspectives on young adult literature, offering a comprehensive experience for participants and attendees.
“The insight that our young audience of literature enthusiasts will gain from discussions with these experienced guests is invaluable. It is an honour to host them as a part of ‘Epilogue: A Literary Saga’, the biggest literature event in FLAME history,” said Tia Arora, President, The Ellipsis: FLAME Writing & Oratory Club.
By working together, Valley of Words, Indus International School, and FLAME University are creating a dynamic and engaging platform for literature, art, and learning aimed at inspiring the next generation of readers and thinkers.
