The three-day, Bhopal Literature and Art Festival (BLF) concluded on a high note with a promise to return next year with amazing line-ups. The concluding ceremony witnessed a performance that enthralled with the dance performance from north eastern dance group, Kalabhumi Group of Padmashree honored Indira PP Bora and Menaka PP Bora.
Followed by Award Ceremony and valedictory functions. Last day of the fest presented 21 knowledge sessions on Art, Literature, Wildlife, Foreign Policy and many interesting subjects for the Art and Literature enthusiasts. Some of them included the session on Cultural connectivity by Shaurya Doval and Sachichanand Joshi, Constitutional Morality by Justice Madan B Lokur and Indian diplomat Ajay Bisariya on Managing Pakistan Without getting Angry.Earlier the final day of the festival commenced with a heritage walk, during which the festival attendees were guided to explore some of Bhopal's significant landmarks, where they were guided with the architectural and historical value of the places.
In the opening session at Antarang auditorium, the main speakers Justice Madan B Lokur and mediator Bishwajit Bhattacharyya discussed Constitutional Morality. The discussion revolved around the constitutional values based on the principles of Dr. Ambedkar in the context of the present.During the session, the guest shared his views on the Indian legal system and the Constitution in the current perspective. While discussing the functioning of the judiciary, the speaker referred to the Chief Justice as the 'Master of the Roster' and highlighted the significance of their role in judicial proceedings. The discussion centered around the scrutiny of the Indian Constitution, ethical values, legal administration, public interest litigations, and recommendations.
In a discussion focused on the topic of 'Expression in History and Architecture,' Dr. Meera Dass, Saurabh Popli, Anisha Shekhar Mukherji, and Neeru Misra explored the presentation of Shahjahanabad, including the fort, city, and Humayun's Garden Mausoleum. Neeru Mishra highlighted the artistic aspects of the stones and main gateway used in the construction of Humayun's Garden Mausoleum. The conversation delved into the proper arrangement of water features, gardens, and various amenities, including a mosque-madrasa. Anisha, while discussing her study on the forts of Shahjahanabad, emphasized different ways the British utilized them during their time, shedding light on various unique features.
During a dialogue on Energy Transition in India at the Antarang Auditorium, guests Anil Kumar Jain (joined virtually), Manu Shrivastava, and Vikram Mehta, moderated by Rajat Katharia, shared valuable perspectives. Manu Shrivastava discussed the significant impact of the REWA project on conserving energy. Anil Kumar Jain addressed the importance of gas as a clean fossil fuel in his book "Gas as a Bridge." Vikram Mehta outlined the progression of energy transition from wood to coal, gas, and now solar energy. The aim of this third transition is to replace alternative sources, necessitating thoughtful policy decisions.
Renowned speaker Shalini Mahajan champions a transformative approach to leadership, emphasizing empathy over traditional rationality. The session was moderated by Gitanjali J Angmo. Breaking gender stereotypes from her karate black belt journey, Mahajan sheds light on India's disrupted historical gender equality by British colonialism. Urging men to embrace their feminine side, she highlights women's innate nurturing qualities to address complex 21st-century challenges. Mahajan envisions a progressive society where achieving larger goals transcends gender roles, making financial independence and a balanced leadership approach imperative for a brighter future.