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LUCKNOW LITERARY FESTIVAL^® (लखनऊ साहित्य महोत्सव^®)

C/O LUCKNOW Society^®
Sector 21/250, Indira Nagar
Lucknow – 16 (U.P.) INDIA
Phone: +91 97959 23232
Email:/

Volunteer Registration for 6th Edition 

Demystifying Elections and Empowering India : A CEC’s journey

Decoding the undercurrents of elections in India, former Chief Election Commissioner, Mr. S.Y. Quraishi and Kena Shree conversed on the trends of elections in the country in the session, “Demystifying elections and empowering India.” Mr. Quraishi highlighted the fact that elections are generally perceived as merely a political affair, but they are also the world’s greatest management event. They talked about the ‘First past the post system’ of elections in India and how it can be replaced for the better. The National Voters’ day is his invention. He said “It is a cause for celebration when you turn 18, and that is why we decided to observe this day. The first time we gave away 8 lac voter IDs.”

Panel Discussion : Hamari Sheri Rawayat Aur Lucknow Ki Khawateen

The next panel discussion ‘Hamari Sheri Rawayat aur Lucknow ki Khawateen’ explored the unsung contribution of women to the world of Urdu shayari. Women have been a part of the shayari tradition right from the beginning – the Begums of Nawabs wrote extensively but could not get published under their own names. Leading Urdu women writers and poets, Sehba Ali, Aisha Siddiqui, Gazal Zaigam, Naseem Nikhat and Sahiba Anwar discussed the nuances of Urdu shayari as rendered by the female pen. Sharib Rudaulvi was also part of the discussion.

Cultural Evening: “Baul Papia & Baishnav Tantra” – By Sebastian Dreyer & Papia Ghoshal (Germany)

The performance by Sebastian Dreyer and Papia Ghoshal, who hail from Germany, enchanted everyone by their performance. The performance started by a soulful performance by Sebastian Dreyer. He performed a few songs on the sitar which ended with a rapturous applause. The fusion of both Sebastian Dreyer and Papia Ghoshal for the Baul blazed the stage and blew away everyone’s mind. The audience whole heartedly participated in the performance and cheered the artists with resounding applause throughout the performance.

Panel Discussion: Fiction Writing Taking Over All the Attention From Mythology

Best selling mythology writer Anand Neelkanthan talked with Utkarsh Patel, writer and a professor of comparative mythology on ‘Fiction Writing taking over all the attention from Mythology‘.They discussed the various factors that come into play while writing mythological stories. They critically analysed the western influenced reading culture in India today and the dismal ignorance of the people about legendary Indian characters.

Panel Discussion: Kahani Aaj Ke Parivesh Mein

The panel including popular Hindi writer from Lucknow Shiv Murti, Akhilesh from Delhi in conversation with Nalin Ranjan discussed the state of the story in today’s changing world in‘Kahani Aaj Ke Parivesh Mein’.

Panel Discussion: Asahishnuta Ke Sandarbh

With recent events in mind, Shiv Murti, H.L. Dusadh, Kalicharan Sanehi & Dr. Yashwant Viroday explored the weighty implications of intolerance, the issue being the central debate in India today, in a heated discussion on “Asahishnuta ke Sandarbh me.”

“At Language’s Edge” – Anand Neelkanthan in conversation with Ayaz

Panel Discussion: Urdu Masnaviyo mein Lucknowi Tehzib-O-Saqafat

Eminent personages of the Urdu world sat down to discuss -Urdu Masnaviyon mein Lucknawi Tehzeeb-O-Saqafat. Sharib Rudaulvi, Ratan Singh, Maula Baksh and Shafiq Hussain acquainted the audience with the form and its practitioners.

Source of Media & Changing Public Sphere – Dilip Mandal

Former managing editor of India Today Dilip C. Mandal discussed the current scenario of media and the changing public sphere in a power packed session. He emphasized how social media has captured the Indian audience, and how it multiplies geometrically. He talked about idea sharing and benefits of social media. Speaking of the JNU students’ sedition charges issue, he said “We are a nation living in fear. “ It was a highly informative session; the audience took an active interest, raising many questions about the issues he mentioned.

Panel Discussion: Faarsi Adab Aur Lucknow

The composite of Lucknow and its many languages has gained its richness from many sources. The purifying influence of Persian in Lucknow was examined by an elite panel comprising Asifa Zamani, Umar Qamaluddin, Khan Mohammad Atif, Dr. Arshad Jafri, Dr. Hina Bano, Mirza Shafiq Husain in “Farsi Adab Aur Lucknow”. The discussion started with importance of Farsi Adab and its role in Lucknow.

Panel Discussion: Has Fiction / Romance writing turned into a writing business

Blatant obscenity in fiction and romance writing were analysed by contemporary writers Sachin Garg, Vani Kaushal & Sanil Sachar. The writers said that they were not in favour of showcasing obscenity in writing because if it is too explicit then they stand to lose one section of readers, but sometimes they have to give in to readers’ demands.
The session started with defining the line between intimacy and obscenity. Narrating an anecdote relating to her first book, Vani Kaushal, author of “The Recession Groom” said that she received reviews that her book fell short in terms of ‘steaminess’. Sanil said that it is a matter of perception and that it is not vulgar to include sex in fiction writing. Sachin, on the other hand, talked about the different kind of content that Indian writers are coming up with. Innovative techniques, new plots in the crime and thriller genre are expected to evolve further in the coming years.

Panel Discussion: Scope of Political Writing in the World of Fiction

Priyajeet Debsarkar and Sriram Karri discussed the scope of political writing in the world of fiction. They discussed the various factors that come into play while writing and researching for a book on political issues and the problems they face while doing it.

“Beyond Doubt” : Understanding Teesta Setalvad and her book

Activist Teesta Setalvad sat in discussion with Ayaz Khalid on her book ‘Beyond Doubt’. It was a highly charged session with the audience hanging on to the magnetic pull of the revolutionary’s words. On her book Teesta Setalvad said “The entire effort is to expose deliberate propaganda by the people who believe in Hindu Rashtravaad. The centre has a schizophrenic relationship with Gandhi; they use his use his photographs but denigrate his politics.”

Cultural Evening: “Dastan Ghummi Kebabi Ki” by Fouzia & Fazal Rashid

The compelling “Dastan Ghummi Kebabi ki” was told by the dauntless Fauzia, the first female Dastango of modern times along with Fazal Rashid. This antique performance by Fauzia and Fazal gladdened everyone present their and drew back in the yellow pages of Awadh. The performance told the tale of Ghummi Kebabi and his journey of making the kebabs and his shop in the lanes of Old Delhi. The audience was spell bound by this art of storytelling and was listening intently to the words and the style of storytelling. Each member of the audience was hooked to every word of the Dastango.

Panel Discussion: Modern Technology Aur Urdu Duniya

With many attractions in tow, for the enthusiastic crowd of Lucknow the day unravelled with a panel discussion on “Modern Technology Aur Urdu Duniya ” in which honorary panelists-Canadian writer Javed Danish and poet Zamin Jafri, writer, professor Urdu department , AMU, Maula Baksh, AMU professor Shafe Kidwai, Dr. Mirza Shafique Hussain Shafaq elaborated on where the language stood in the modern world ,among social media platforms.
Coming from the family of legendary Urdu poet Mir Anees Javed, Javed Danish appreciated the youth on their efforts in the festival and also for lending importance to a session on Urdu, on language and words, which often the young are accused of neglecting.

Panel Discussion: Jung-e Azaadi me Urdu ka Kirdaar

Another panel discussion on “Jung-e-Azaadi me Urdu ka Kirdaar” suggestively based on the role of Urdu in the Indian Independence Movement. The panel was presided over by renowned writers and scholars like Javed Danish, Ratan Singh, Maula Baksh, Shafe Kidwai, and Dr. Mirza Shafique Hussain.
Maula Baksh described how Urdu superseded all other languages in uniting the nation, becoming a common link throughout its length and breadth. The history of Indian freedom struggle as fought under the wings of Urdu was discussed. Maula Baksh also admired the youths organizing the festival saying that “If a group of young people can arrange such an event, where literature, language, culture is being celebrated – I have seen in my time here, these kids have been working so hard, helping out the delegates, accompanying them even to the railway station, -if such is their dedication, kon kehta hai adab mar gaya.”

Panel Discussion: “Fact or Fiction : The Storyline of the Youth”

Utkarsh Patel, accomplished comparative mythology expert along with new age writers Vani Kaushal , Sachin Garg ,UK based Priyajeet Debsarkar and Ratna Vira explored the theme ‘Fact Or Fiction :The Storyline of the Youth’ deliberating on what the youth accepts as truth in the prevalent fiction today.
The session focused on the content of books today. With a flood of new writers hitting the stalls, there is much confusion as to whether the published works contain truth or fiction. Sachin said that books are a mix of fact and fiction and that each book reflects the writer’s personality.

Book Launch: We Need a Revolution by Sachin Garg

Panel Discussion: Child Education – How Rightfully is Right to Education Working

Samina Bano, Aamir Hussain and Ritwik Patra sat in conversation to discuss the topic “Child Education- How Rightfully Is Right To Education Working”.Samina Bano said “Every child deserves quality education and amongst children there should be no class discrimination, in perception or behavior .”
She further said that beyond the home, school impacts the child most. Research says in a socially economic diverse classroom the child is more likely to grow as a socially aware human being, more helpful which is why it is necessary to have socio-economically inclusive classrooms today.
Ritwik Patra elaborated how Right To Education is working in Uttar Pradesh, saying there is a dialectical relationship between poverty and education. “The narrative of UP” he said, “is not simple. It is a Meta narrative.”

Panel Discussion: स्त्री विमर्श की चुनौतियां

Sutapa Sanyal, Rajni Gupta, a writer, Kiran Singh ,Anita Dubey, Editor, Rivvant magazine, Sheila Pandey and Anita Srivastava delved in a discussion on the challenges of women. They said that women have not gained the most important thing and that is respect in society and as long as that respect is denied to them, our cause remains a defeated one.
IG, Lucknow Police Sutapa Sanyal said “We see the pain of women everyday and try to lend them some relief, find solutions. The more opportunities women have the more challenges they face. The ground reality is horrific. We do gender sensitive policing.”

Panel Discussion: लखनऊ व्यंग्य के आईने में

Popular Hindi satirists indulged in a comic battle viewing Lucknow through the mirror of satire in ‘Lucknow Vyang Ke Aaine Mein’. Prominent Lucknow satirist Gopal Chaturvedi, the head of the satirists’ association in Delhi, Sushil Siddhartha, one of the few female satirists- Indrajeet Kaur, editor of the Hindi daily, Navbharat Times-Sudhir Mishra , other prominent names in the field ,Anup Mani Tripathi, Sandeep Saxena and Pankaj Prasun had the audience in laughter with their witty words. It was the most well attended session and the audience thoroughly enjoyed it. They engaged the audience with a satirical take on various issues that affect us all.

Panel Discussion: Role of Theatre in Moulding Indian Cinema

Bollywood filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, theatre and film personality Atul Tiwari, and Vinod Bhardwaj sat in conversation with Ayaz Khalid, deliberating on the role of theatre in moulding Indian cinema. They discussed a variety of issues, including the inclusion of songs in Indian cinema to the portrayal of theatrical stories in the cinema. Another important point that was brought out was that theatre needed much more marketing than cinema due to its approach.

The Power of Freedom of Speech in Building of a Nation

Radical Indian politician, activist and educator Sandeep Pandey along with Teesta Seetalwad, leading Indian journalist and social reformer engaged in a heated and informative discussion on “the power of freedom of speech in building a nation”. The session was power packed with the discussions focussing on the voice of dissent being important in a democracy. They discussed how some recent incidents have brought out the issues that we are facing in implementing the freedoms that we gave been granted. The audience was equally enthusiastic and asked a plethora of questions from the duo relating to politics and activism.

Bharatnatyam : Durga Stuti

Shaam-e-Ghazal

The final day ended with a Bharatnatyam performance by young girls’ duo Manya Khare and Pragati Bajpai from Rhythm Divine Institute. It was only apt that the literary extravaganza in the city of Adab ended with the rapturous form of ghazal singing. Mr. Pradeep Ali gave a ghazal performance which enthralled the audience who whole heartedly participated and made the performance a grand success.

Award Ceremony: Wajid Ali Shah Award & Pride of Lucknow Award

Inauguration Ceremony

“We, Literature and Politics” – Shri Aziz Qureshi

(Ex. Governor Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand & Mizoram)

Divya Dutta in conversation with Ayaz Khalid – “Me and Maa”

Kanhaiya Kumar in conversation with Pankaj Prasun Shukla – “Bihar to Tihar”

Shatrughan Sinha in conversation with Bharathi Pradhan – “Anything But Khamosh”

“फायर ब्रांड नेताओ की लोकप्रियता एवं लोकतंत्र” – Asaduddin Owaisi

“क्या सत्ता से सवाल पूछना मुश्किल हो गया है” – Abhisar Sharma

“समसामयिक मुद्दों पर आधारित व्यंग्य : कितने सार्थक” – Sampat Saral in conversation with Pankaj Prasun

Social Media : Boon or a Bane in the changing Time

Faisal & Shahnawaz (Garbage Bin), Ankit Lal (Head AAP Social Media) in conversation with Anam Waheed

Raindrops Chasing Raindrops by Paresh Tiwari

“साहित्य सिनेमा संगीत और संदीप नाथ” – Sandeep Nath in conversation with Pankaj Prasun

“आज का समय और मृदुला गर्ग की क़िस्सागोई” – Mridula Garg in conversation with Roshan Premyogi

“पत्रकारिता से राजनीति का सफर” – कितना मुश्किल कितना आसान – Ashutosh Kumar in conversation with Mukul Srivastava

Corruption and Politics – Sanjay Singh in conversation with Sharad Pradhan

Copyright Details :

Lucknow Literary Festival
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1. Word Mark : Lucknow Literary Festival (Registered)
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   Journal No. 1807-0 Journal Date : 24/07/2017
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   Journal No. 1797-0 Journal Date : 15/05/2017
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   Journal No. 1780-0 Journal Date : 16/01/2017
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Volunteer 2017

Joohi Kumar

Volunteer Head

info:

Akash Jaiswal

Anam Waheed

Ashutosh Gupta

Atif Aleem

Harshvardhan Kedia

Itaat Amin

Saamir Siddiqui

Shashwat Pandey

Shazir Siddiqui

Shipra Saxena

Shreshthi Srivastava

Sumedha Tankha

Trisha Singh

Vidushee Singh

Shatrughan Sinha in conversation with Bharathi Pradhan
“Anything But Khamosh”

Title Sponsor

Media Partner	Radio Partner	Digital Partner
Travel Partner	Goodness Partner	PR & Event Partner
Hospitality Partner	Venue Partner	Branding Partner
Outdoor Partner	Communication Partner	Web Partner
Magazine Partner	CSR Partner

Our Patron

Dr. Aziz Qureshi

Ex. Governor - Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand & Mizoram

info:

Festival Team

Shamim A. Aarzoo

Founder & CEO

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In spite of being a Non-Lucknowite by birth, the love he carries in his heart for Lucknow as well as Literature is incomparable. The zeal to carry forward the heritage and culture of the city of Nawabs led him to the foundation of the LUCKNOW Society, which reflects his efforts to preserve the unique Lucknawi Tehzeeb and makes every citizen proud of the unique culture and heritage of which Lucknow has been a home for an endless time period now. At the very same time Literature also played a very important role to bring out the best in him as the founder of the Lucknow Literary Festival and Editor in chief of the first english literary magazine of Lucknow, The Lucknow Observer.
Displaying great leadership and vision, he has led from the front in an effort to make Lucknow a better place and, at the same time, reviving what rightfully belongs to Lucknow. Be it awareness campaigns like Kyun Ki Shahar Hai Aapka or paying tributes to Lucknow’s legends in Shaam-e-Adab. His innovativeness has been his sharpest tool to serve the city, be it his initiatives like Let’s revive, Save Our Heritage, Know Your City, which are not only targeted to make the city what it once used to be but too to make the youth aware of what they have been missing for so long or be it the book he recently presented to the city, Discovering Lucknow, a coffee table book, which not only gives the minutiae of the monuments but too depicts them in the then and now effect.
Always mindful, always in search of the next level, he not only sets an example for others but also sets very high standards for himself that ultimately set him apart from everyone.

Akansha

Director Festival

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"Books are one's best friend’ and she is the perfect example why it is said so. Her childhood budding affection towards the books blossomed to an extent that at such tender age she owns a library of 500+ books. When her interest turned into love and then into passion even she didn’t realize. Student by profession and social worker, Akansha is a very good Calligrapher and painter too. Her favorite time-pass is to drift in the sea of words and explore the minds of the authors. According to her, at times books take her to a wonderland where she could stay away from the worries of the world… and at times they even provide adequate strength to face the worldly problems.

Shaheer A. Mirza

• 
• 

Kapil Pal

Pankaj Prasun

Aftab Ali Khan

विज्ञापन के दौर में ‘जो दिखता है वो बिकता है” जैसी कहावते समाज में इस कदर घर कर गई हैं जिससे पार पाना शायद अब आसान नहीं लगता। लेकिन सवाल ये है कि क्या नफे- नुक्सान के फेर में पड़कर झूठ, फरेब और धोखे का कारोबार भी किया जा सकता है?

साल 2014 में आउटलुक ट्रैवेलर ने लखनऊ सोसाइटी के तत्वाधान में आयोजित “लखनऊ लिटरेरी फेस्टिवल” को इण्डिया के “टॉप 6” लिटरेरी फेस्टिवल में लिस्ट किया था जो कुछ लोगो के लिए नींद ना आने का विषय बना हुआ था बस फिर क्या था अभी कुछ दिन पहले एक फेसबुक पोस्ट हम लोगो की नज़रो के सामने से गुज़रा जिसमे लिखा था कि लखनऊ एक्सप्रेशन द्वारा आयोजित “लखनऊ लिटरेचर कार्निवाल” जिसे अब “लखनऊ लिटरेचर फेस्टिवल” का नाम दे दिया गया है, को हेराल्ड पोस्ट ने इंडिया के बेस्ट (टॉप 5) लिट् फेस्ट में शामिल किया है। पर बात कुछ इस वजह से गले से नहीं उतरी की वो संस्था जिस पर लखनऊ सोसाइटी ने ट्रेडमार्क पासिंग ऑफ का केस फाइल किया हुआ है जिसके कारण उसके सारे सोशल मीडिया अकाउंट (फेसबुक/इंस्टाग्राम/ट्विटर) सम्बंधित संस्थाओ ने ससपेंड कर दिए हो और जो अभी फेस्टिवल के नाम से हुआ भी नहीं हो वो अभी से “टॉप 5” में कैसे लिस्ट हो सकता है?

बस फिर क्या था जिज्ञासा को शांत करने के लिए “हेराल्ड पोस्ट डॉट इन” (heraldpost.in) का शिजरा निकाला गया तो पाया गया कि वो डोमेन किसी फ़र्ज़ी नाम और एड्रेस से रजिस्टर किया गया था बस उसको रजिस्टर करने वाले से गलती ये हो गई की वो अपनी मेल आई डी हटाना भूल गया था। और ये मेल आई डी छिछली लोकप्रियता पाने की होड़ में लगे लखनऊ एक्सप्रेशन सोसायटी के कर्मठ टीम मेंबर वसीम सिददीकी साहब की निकली और नंबर लखनऊ एक्सप्रेशन सोसाइटी का। वैसे तो ये उनके लिए कोई नई बात नहीं थी क्योकि ऐसे कई काम ये पहले भी कर चुके है तो ऐसे लोगो से नैतिकता की उम्मीद करना भी अप्रासंगिक होगा।

वैसे तो इंसान की फितरत नहीं बदलती पर फिर भी हम लोगो का लखनऊ एक्सप्रेशन सोसायटी के प्रेसिडेंट श्री जयंत कृष्णा साहब जो की देश के “कौशल भारत” ( Skill India – NSDC ) के ED & COO भी है, को सुझाव है कि वो इण्डिया की स्किल बाद में डेवेलोप करे पहले वो अपने टीम मेंबर्स की स्किल्स डेवेलप कर ले तो शायद ज़्यादा बेहतर हो।

6th Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival 

5th Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival : 10th-12th November 2017

4th Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival : 19th – 21st Feb 2016

3rd Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival : 13th-15th Feb 2015

2nd Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival : 1st-2nd Feb 2014

1st Edition of Lucknow Literary Festival : 23rd-24th March 2013

Lucknow Literary Festival^® & Lucknow Literature Festival^® is a registered trademark & copyright of Lucknow Society^®
 Lucknow Sahitya Mahotsav^™ is a trademark applied for by LUCKNOW Society.

“AAJ BHI KEHTA HAI HAR SAHIB-E NAZAR ROSHAN KHAYAAL,
LUCKNOW ILM-O ADAB MEIN AAP HI APNI MISAAL”

Uttar Pradesh, is the land of Amir Khusru, Meer Taqi Meer, Asad Ullah Khan Ghalib, Mir Anees, Mirza Hadi Ruswa, Abdul Halim Sharar, Munshi Premchand, Yashpal, Amrit Lal Nagar, Raghupati Sahai Firaq Gorakhpuri, Asrar-ul-Haq Majaz, Pandit Brij Narain Chakbast, Jigar Moradabadi, Qurratulain Haider and many others who gave us masterpieces and made epic contributions to Literature. Even today contemporary authors like Javed Akhtar, Veena Talwar Oldenburg, Neelesh Misra, Prasoon Joshi, etc have kept the flame of the written word burning bright. Despite the presence of such literary greats, Uttar Pradesh has not had a literary summit for a long time, even though we had a tradition of Kavi Sammelans, Mushairas & Nashists. To carry on this legacy, and consciously try to enlighten the reader, Lucknow Literary Festival is organized in the capital of Uttar Pradesh to promote the literary genius of Uttar Pradesh & Lucknow in particular. The festival is an effort to bring forth the lutf of languages – Hindi, Urdu, Awadhi & English on a common platform.

The first ever Lucknow Literary Festival (लखनऊ साहित्य महोत्सव) is an endeavour of the LUCKNOW Society, which is a non profit organisation dedicated to the cause of promoting & conserving the Culture, Tehzeeb & Heritage of Shahar-e Lucknow. Shamim A. Aarzoo, the founder of the society is instrumental in organizing the festival. Lucknow Literary Festival acknowledges new literary talents, honors our legends, while restoring literary tradition of the past, Lucknow’s own unique heritage and also evoking the newer generation’s interest. The event is also replete with entertainment for the literary taste. Lucknow Literary Festival is, by far, India’s only literary festival organized solely on the independent efforts and endeavors of a youth organization with an average team age of 24 years.

The Lucknow Literary Festival has been adorned with sundry of well – known names and faces that not only grace the event with their presence but also share their experiences, their insights with young and old alike.

While, on one hand, the Lucknow Literary Festival has become a hub of the glitz from all across the country, it also dawns the light upon Lucknow’s own talent and gives them a stage to showcase themselves in our cultural programs.

“EK LUTF-E KHAAS DIL KO TERI AARZOO ME HAI,
ALLAH JAANE KITNI KASHISH LUCKNOW ME HAI”

The Wajid Ali Shah award was presented to nation’s very noted director Sudhir Mishra. Born and brought up in Lucknow, Sudhir Mishra is the grandson of former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Dwarka Prasad Mishra. His father, Devendra Nath Mishra, was the founder member of Lucknow Film Society. Sudhir Mishra along with Badal Sircar who is his college friend, formed a theatre group called Workshop Theatre and worked on several plays together. After a year and a half he moved to Pune with his brother Sudhanshu Mishra, who was the student then at Film and Television Institute of India and Sudhir gives brownie points to his brother for making him learn much of the cinema. Moving to the city of Dreams, Bombay in 1980, he began his career as assistant director and scriptwriter in Kundan Shah’s comedy classic Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron and later worked with Saeed Akhtar Mirza in Mohan Joshi Hazir Ho! in 1984 and with Vidhu Vinod Chopra in Khamosh in 1985. Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin in 1987 was his directorial debut which won him the prestigious National Film Award for Best First Film of a Director. He is credited for many applauded films like Dharavi in 1991, Main Zinda Hoon in 1988, Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin in 1996 and Chameli in 2003. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi in 2005 is his most hailed film up till now. Arjun Pandit (1999 film), Calcutta Mail (2003), Khoya Khoya Chand (2007), Tera Kya Hoga Johnny (2010) Yeh Saali Zindagi (2011), Mumbai Cutting (2011), Inkaar (2013) and Kirchiyaan (2013) are his other endowed projects. Apart from directing and screenwriting Sudhir also appeared as an actor in many films like Khamosh in 1985, Traffic signal in 2007 and Raat gayi baat gayi in 2010.

Sudhir Mishra as a film director and screenwriter has been a crucial part of Hindi cinema and LUCKNOW Society is gratified by bestowing Wajid Ali Shah Award to Sudhir Mishra for his contribution in Hindi cinema and glorifying Lucknow. On greeting the audience Sudhir confessed his fear in speaking much in the city as his ancestors belong here and also there are many friends and relatives who want him to see them.

>> Wajid Ali Shah Award 2015 – Pandit Birju Maharaj

The Pride of Lucknow Award is given to luminaries for excelling in their respected fields.

The Pride of Lucknow award for contribution to Urdu Literature was awarded to Sardar Ratan Singh. His 10 books have been published out of which six were the collection of short stories, three novelettes and one autobiography. He has also translated 9 books from other languages into Urdu and three into Punjabi. Panaah Gaah is one most eminent out of his collection. It was a prestige to honour this versed luminary with Pride of Lucknow Award. Enunciating the people after receiving the award from Teesta Setalvad, He said everything he earned, he owes to his family and friends. He further added that he yet has no control upon his speech, whatever comes in his mind he articulates. It was a proud time for everyone present to hang on to the words of such a notorious personality.

The Pride of Lucknow award for contribution to Doordarshan, Literature and Cinema was conferred to Vilayat Jafri. Born on 2 October 1935 in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh, Vilayat Jafri is a reputed playwright, poet and short story writer and well known in the literary, theatre and entertainment sector in India. He is well versed in 7 languages i.e.; Hindi, Urdu, English, Sanskrit, Persian, Punjabi and Arabic, but writes in Hindi and Urdu. He has worked as the Controller of Programmes Directorate General in Doordarshan New Delhi and he retired as the Director, Doordarshan. In 1993, a special programme was aired by BBC London, exasperating his contribution as a write and the theatre worker. He pioneered Light & Sound Programmes in India. He was an important part of various cultural bodies of the country. He was the Chairman of Inter Media Program Coordination Committee, Govt. of India from 1988 to 1993. He was a Member of National Film Development Corporation, Mumbai from 1987 to 1988 and Script Committee. He was also executed as the International Jury in a TV festival ‘Golden Prague’ Czechoslovakia in July, 1989. He was a Panel Member of India Council for Cultural Relations in Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Vilayat Jafri’s plays like Zaher Kaun Piye that received Urdu Academy Award. He also manifested his name in many Television Serials like Neem ka Ped, Aadha Gaon. He also aired many Radio Plays like Eik Gaon Ki Kahani and Sitaro Se Aage. He has authored 9 books of which 2 were awarded, including Thaki Yadein, Jahan Khoon Bikta Hai, Zaher Kaun Piye (Received Academy Award (1989) & J&K Govt. award (1969), Neelam Pari, Dhool Mein Phool, Chandi Ki Kirchein, Dahekta Avadh, Gustakhiya.

The Pride of Lucknow award for satire was awarded to Gopal Chaturvedi. An excellent satirist and a man of words, he is a gem to the literature of Lucknow. Unable to be a part of the literary festival due to his ill health, the LUCKNOW society feels proud to confer this year’s award for his excellence.

>> Pride Of Lucknow Award 2015 

Associates

Supporting Partners

Print Partner

Radio Partner

Outdoor Partner

Decoding the undercurrents of elections in India, former Chief Election Commissioner, Mr. S.Y. Quraishi and Kena Shree conversed on the trends of elections in the country in the session, “Demystifying elections and empowering India.” Mr. Quraishi highlighted the fact that elections are generally perceived as merely a political affair, but they are also the world’s greatest management event. They talked about the ‘First past the post system’ of elections in India and how it can be replaced for the better. The National Voters’ day is his invention. He said “It is a cause for celebration when you turn 18, and that is why we decided to observe this day. The first time we gave away 8 lac voter IDs.”

Former managing editor of India Today Dilip C. Mandal discussed the current scenario of media and the changing public sphere in a power packed session. He emphasized how social media has captured the Indian audience, and how it multiplies geometrically. He talked about idea sharing and benefits of social media. Speaking of the JNU students’ sedition charges issue, he said “We are a nation living in fear. “ It was a highly informative session; the audience took an active interest, raising many questions about the issues he mentioned.

Activist Teesta Setalvad sat in discussion with Ayaz Khalid on her book ‘Beyond Doubt’. It was a highly charged session with the audience hanging on to the magnetic pull of the revolutionary’s words. On her book Teesta Setalvad said “The entire effort is to expose deliberate propaganda by the people who believe in Hindu Rashtravaad. The centre has a schizophrenic relationship with Gandhi; they use his use his photographs but denigrate his politics.”

The performance by Sebastian Dreyer and Papia Ghoshal, who hail from Germany, enchanted everyone by their performance. The performance started by a soulful performance by Sebastian Dreyer. He performed a few songs on the sitar which ended with a rapturous applause. The fusion of both Sebastian Dreyer and Papia Ghoshal for the Baul blazed the stage and blew away everyone’s mind. The audience whole heartedly participated in the performance and cheered the artists with resounding applause throughout the performance.

The compelling “Dastan Ghummi Kebabi ki” was told by the dauntless Fauzia, the first female Dastango of modern times along with Fazal Rashid. This antique performance by Fauzia and Fazal gladdened everyone present their and drew back in the yellow pages of Awadh. The performance told the tale of Ghummi Kebabi and his journey of making the kebabs and his shop in the lanes of Old Delhi. The audience was spell bound by this art of storytelling and was listening intently to the words and the style of storytelling. Each member of the audience was hooked to every word of the Dastango.

Bollywood filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, theatre and film personality Atul Tiwari, and Vinod Bhardwaj sat in conversation with Ayaz Khalid, deliberating on the role of theatre in moulding Indian cinema. They discussed a variety of issues, including the inclusion of songs in Indian cinema to the portrayal of theatrical stories in the cinema. Another important point that was brought out was that theatre needed much more marketing than cinema due to its approach.

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LUCKNOW society, aims to preserve, promote and resurrect the inimitable culture and heritage of the city of nawabs, revive its past magnificence as it affects a modern grace. ‘Let’s Unite for Culture, Knowledge, Nationalism and Objective Welfare Society’ – each character of the christening contains the fervor of commitment to the cause. Headed by a band of zealous lucknowites, the society came into force on 25^th April 2011 sanctioned under the Societies Registration Act (Act XXI of 1860). In the four years following its momentous conception, it has worked ardently as a restorative of the city’s primal pride, acting as a crucial channel between governmental and non-governmental organizations, individual crusaders of its cause. Cultural pursuits have been redeemed from fading ruins of remembrance and records. Poets, writers, warriors, places, customs, the arts and a quintessential people all celebrated and deemed with dignity and respect that is their due.  Raising and revealing to the youth the soul of the city, its true and inspiring legacy and the onus that rests on them to uplift and sustain its cultural and social renovation, has been one of its essential occupation. Up, Aware and rooted in its regal inheritance that is the society’s goal for the city’s imminent heirs.

The Society has hot in only been a non-profit organization in these past years but has also acted as an extended family to the city. There have been made several efforts in making the city a better place by the Society. Be it awareness campaigns like “Kyun Ki Shahar Hai Aapka” or paying tributes to Lucknow’s legends in “Shaam-e-Adab”, LUCKNOW Society has always been paying equal consideration to the contemporary botheration as well as decrepit complications.

Be it the “Lucknow Literary Festival”, which has been adorned with sundry of well – known names and faces that not only grace the event with their presence but also share their experiences, their insights with young and old alike, which not only solves the purpose of making the legendary writers shine among the youngsters but also encouraging the young talent to come forward or be it bringing forward the drifting dance culture of Lucknow through “Lucknow Dance Festival”.

Be it the initiatives like “Let’s revive”, “Save Our Heritage”, “Know Your City”, which are not only targeted to make the city what it once used to be but too to make the youth aware of what they have been missing for so long. The initiatives are not only in order to spread the awareness but too returning the city its timeworn glory, which it has been losing with the advancing years.

As we say the Society has always played a role of the extended family to the city, it too has given equal opportunities as well as liberty to the citizens to the express their views and perspective through initiatives like “Let’s Share” and “Ab Isko Kya Kaha Jaaye” at the same time offering them equal insights of Lucknow’s Rich language and food culture through initiatives like “Zaban-e-Lucknow” and “Zaiqa-e-Lucknow”

Being a family there exist no chance to obliterate the memories of the ones who made us what we are today, our legends in various fields of life. The initiates like “Lets’s Salute” and “Yaadein” take us back in the dates to events and personalities associated to them. Encouraging the youth to come forward, the Society has been conducting the “Quiz Lucknow” strictly based on the lurking facts of the city as well as presenting the citizens with the enchanting beauty of the city through the monuments captured in the “Right Angle” calendar. LUCKNOW Society has also recently presented the city, a coffee table book “Discovering Lucknow” as well as a monthly magazine “The Lucknow Observer” which presents the readers with almost all aspects the city is known for.

Perpetually encouraging the new talent, the Society also conducts workshops like “Let’s Save Calligraphy” in order to save the dying art form, which still can be seen in almost all the mausoleum and mosques of the city. Online photography contests like “Explore Lucknow” are one of its kind contest, the Society is known for in youngsters while the renowned and the legendries have been awarded with “Pride of Lucknow Award” and “Wajid Ali Shah Award” on regular basis.

Inauguration Ceremony

Contribution of Wajid Ali Shah to Arts, Literature & Culture of Awadh

Panel Discussion: Vartamaan Kavita Ki Chunautiyan

Poetry Recitation : Vishnu Nagar & Naresh Saxena

Book launch: He Fixed The Match, She Fixed Him by Shikha Kumar

Book Launch: It Happens For A Reason

Preeti Shenoy in conversation with Nishi Pandey

Book Launch : Sutak by Nadi Palshikar

Panel Discussion: Socialism in Indian Constitution

Panel Discussion: Farsi Adab Mein Quami Yakjehti

Panel Discussion: Urdu Zabaan Masa’il-o-Imkaanaat

Panel Discussion: Literature & Cinema

Panel Discussion: Gender Sensitization

Roadblock to Child Education, Role of Government & Society

Tasveer-e-Urdu by Yousuf Saeed

Khawateen Ka Afsanvi Adab: Lucknow Ke Khusoosi Hawale Se

Literature of Lucknow as seen by Qaisra Shahraz

Book Launch: Your Dreams Are Mine Now by Ravinder Singh

Award Ceremony: Wajid Ali Shah Award to Pandit Birju Maharaj

Kathak Presentation by Natalia Hildner

Book Launch: Deedni Hun Jo Soch Kar Dekho by Reshma Parveen

Panel Discussion: Lucknow Ki She’ri Rawayaat aur Jadeed Taqazay

Panel Discussion: Literature Coming To Life

Rhythm & Expression in the Performance of Poetry

Chhitaa Kashi: Vyang Path

Panel Discussion: Katha Sahitya – Naye Yatharth Se Muthbhed

Love in Crime

Gurpratap & Kulpreet Yadav in conversation with Ayaz Khalid

Panel Discussion: Hindi Sahitya Ki Upekshit Vidhaye

Mirasi Traditions – A Local Folkfare

Writing & Healing by Sherry Duggal

Neeraj Ke Prem Geet – Gopal Das Neeraj

The presence of Literature in Religion and the message of Peace – Maulana Kalbe Sadiq

Panel Discussion: History and Mythology – When I travelled through Time

The Narrative of the Battle of Karbala (Muharram Nohas)

Epsita Halder supported by South Asia Women’s Fund, Lucknow

Begum Akhtar Centenary commemoration

by her youngest disciple Rekha Surya

Panel Discussion: Aaj Ka Samaj Aur Adab Ki Zarurat

Panel Discussion: Education as a Tool to Reduce Poverty – Challenges and Roadmap Ahead

Interactive session for youth by Mohammad Ali Shah

Shayeri Aur Lucknow

Fusion Dance by Eveta Roy

Lucknow Literary Festival bestowed Wajid Ali Shah award to legendary Kathak exponent Pandit Birju Maharaj. Named after last Nawab of Lucknow, the award was bestowed to Maharaj ji as he has made a great contribution in order to keep the art alive. He was born as Brijmohan Mishra to a noted Kathak exponent, Jagannath Maharaj, popularly known as Acchan Maharaj. His father served as a court dancer in Raigarh princely state. Trained by his uncles, Lachhu Maharaj and Shambhu Maharaj and his father, Birju Maharaj exhibited his talent at the tender age of seven and became a legend in the Lucknow gharana of Kathak dance. Credit goes to him for taking kathak to its previously unattained zenith. Pandit Birju Maharaj served as the director of the Kathak Kala Kendra for several years. He took to teaching kathak at a very young age and later founded his own dance school, Kalashram which imparts training to aspiring dancers. Though kathak remains his first love, very few know that he is trained in Hindustani classical music too. He has composed the music, and sang, for two dance sequences in the Satyajit Ray’s Shatranj ke Khilari, and choreographed the song Kaahe Chhed Mohe from the 2002 film version of movie Devdas. The Government of India conferred on him the Padma Vibhushan Award, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Kalidas Samman. In 2012, he was bestowed with the National Award for Best Choreography for the film Vishwaroopam.

The Lucknow Literary Festival and so its audience was indeed fortunate to have been graced by Pandit Birju Maharaj. The presentation screen at the festival showcasing old video clips, which showed him dancing and imparting kathak lessons to audience evoked a sense of nostalgia and pride among his fans. In the heart-to-heart interaction with the audience, Pandit Birju Maharaj said he was overjoyed to have won the award. He also expressed his desire for the revamping of his old ancestral home Kalka Bindadin Maharaj ji ki Dyodhi at Lucknow into a heritage spot. It is relevant to mention here that the government of Uttar Pradesh has ordered a grant for the restoration of his ancestral property in Lucknow. Pandit Birju Maharaj wishes to establish a kathak training school at his ancestral home with due support from the government. He also expressed concern at the eroding tehzeeb in Lucknow and stressed the need to revive performing arts in the city.

Besides Wajid Ali Shah award, the Pride of Lucknow awards were conferred on three distinguished luminaries.

The Pride of Lucknow award for the contribution to Hindi literature was bestowed on author Shiv Murti. Born on March 11, 1950, Shiv Murti is one of the leading voices in contemporary Hindi fiction. Hailing from humble background, his life was full of struggle. But the best steel is made when iron is passed in hottest temperature. This holds true for author Shiv Murti. A person of few words, he let his works do the talking for him. His first story ‘Mujhe Jeena Hai’ followed by ‘Paanphool’ was published when he was studying in 12th standard. Thereafter he never looked back. His works depict the plight of rural folk in true light. Caste politics, power politics, poverty and Dalit problems form the theme of his works. One of his best novels ‘Triyacharitra’ portrays the life of a young girl who is false implicated for having an illicit relationship and as a consequence has to bear the brutal punishment handed out by gram panchayat. This novel was later made into a movie by Basu Chatterjee. Since his works paint a picture of rural life in true fervor, his fans consider him as second Premchand. But he brushes aside this compliment saying: “Premchand is Premchand. I can never replace him.” His other novels are Trishul and Tarpan. Keshar Kasturi is a collection of stories authored by him. Now his fans should gear up for the re- release of his novel ‘Akhiri Chhalang’. Shivmurti has won Kathakram and Hans award in the past. Though he is satisfied with the kind of Hindi works produced today, he expresses concern at the youngsters losing interest in Hindi literature.

The Pride of Lucknow award for excellence in women empowerment was bestowed on Madhvi Kuckreja, a social worker and founder of NGO Vanaangan. Humbled to receive the award, she considers herself fortunate to have won it though she had shifted her base to Lucknow only few years back. She has set up a shop, Sanatkada here that sells handicrafts, functions as a café, a book club and a film club, all rolled into one. Madhvi has supported numerous women-led, grassroots-level organizations to emerge as transparent, vibrant entities that are sensitive to women. Internationally, she has worked on building opinion against women being subjected to violence in Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka and Sudan. Before moving to Lucknow, she was earlier working in Bundelkhand for alleviating the problems of Dalit women, who are entangled in triad of poverty, caste discrimination and gender subjugation. Though they have been financially independent for long, Dalit women are subjected to discrimination and violence in all forms manifesting itself through rape, public humiliation, or honor killings. Another common punishment for breaking community rules that is also used simply for vengeance is public stripping and parading of women. Violence can also take an extreme form with lynching of women labeled as witches or dayans. Domestic violence however, cuts through religious, caste and class boundaries-dowry related death caused by “accidental” burning of women thrives in the state. Moreover, when women gain property rights-usually after being widowed-they become targets of violence by members of the family or community. Therefore, instead of being economically empowering, property is itself a reason for violence against women. She expresses satisfaction that Due to the collective efforts of her NGO, knowledge levels among Dalit women have increased and they are assuming leadership roles in the village community.

The third Pride of Lucknow award was conferred on noted Urdu author Anees Ashfaq. His work ‘Dukhyare’ highlighting his close relationship with elder brother carries the undertones of declining affluent culture of Lucknow. Elated though to receive the award, he considers ‘Qalam’ as his biggest award. “My writings are useless until they fail to strike a chord with genuine readers,” he said on his felicitation. So what make him pursue writing in Urdu? “I was an avid reader at the age of 18-19. Credit goes to my mother for imparting me lessons in Urdu and shaping my language as it is today.” He expresses concern at the declining habit of reading in today’s youngsters and their overriding ambitions to become stars overnight. He, however, lauds the initiative of Lucknow Society and stresses such rendezvous should be encouraged as they serve as a platform to bring genuine writers together and instills awareness among people. His writings reflect genuine critical analysis of the contemporary scenario. He believes that writings on Lucknow today are not portraying it in true light. With his desire for cultural revival of the city, his upcoming next novel is also set in Lucknow.

With conferring of these four awards, honouring of the dignitaries at the festival came to an end. We at Lucknow Society are thrilled to award best of talent in the city and will continue to reward blossoming excellence in the years to come.

Lucknow Literature Festival (LLF) conferred Wajid Ali Shah Award on the noted dance guru Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji. Mr. Asif Ali Mirza, Mr. Mir Jafar Abdullah and the Founder & CEO of The Lucknow Literary Festival, Mr. Shamim A. Aarzoo accompanied him on the stage. Mr. Sunil Sunkara who is an internationally acclaimed performing artist conducted the ceremony. On the screen the audience was led through time and witnessed the highlights of life and times of Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji.

Best-selling author Preeti Shenoy took the limelight in the session, where her book ‘It Happens For A Reason’, a work enunciating the male perspective on human relationship, was launched. Preeti talked about her book and pointed out how relationships have transformed through technology and love letters have given way to Facebook posts and WhatsApp messages. Nevertheless, “emotions in relationships have remained untouched,” she said.

The event also witnessed the launching of Ravinder Singh’s new book ‘Your Dreams Are Mine Now’, followed by a discussion on his book and his experiences that led him to write. Ravinder is a noted author who shot to fame with his debut novel ‘I Too Had A Love Story’. The book was based on the real experiences of his own life.

The session was conducted in honour of Padma Bhushan author Gopaldas Neeraj and his compositions. Evergreen songs like ‘Khilte hain gul yahan, khil ke bikharne ko’, ‘Shokhiyon mein ghola jaaye’, ‘Mera Man Tera Pyasa’, ‘Rangeela re’ etc. evoked nostalgia among the audience. The session commenced with words of praise for Neeraj Ji by none other than Maulana Kalbe Sadik, who emphasized on the sensibility of the choice of his words, the depth of his verses and their simplicity.

Session on ‘Gender Sensitization, road block to child education and the role of Government and society’ in association with UNICEF. The session was presided by Niloufar Pourzand, Farah Usmani, Urvashi Sahni, Qaisra Shahraz and Sehba Ali. The panelists discussed the three key areas that have been pulling the society down, and that can be worked on so as to achieve an overall rise in the standards of the people and society. These vices have been gnawing at the roots of the Indian society for ages and rendering it hollow, and our panel unanimously agreed that it falls upon every individual’s shoulder to clean the mess of their own society, and owe up responsibility.

Lucknow Literary Festival

The Lucknow Literary Festival is an initiative of LUCKNOW Society that acknowledges new literary talents, honors our legends, while restoring literary tradition of the past, Lucknow’s own unique heritage and also evoking the newer generation’s interest. The event is also replete with entertainment for the literary taste. Lucknow Literary Festival is, by far, India’s only literary festival organized solely on the independent efforts and endeavors of a youth organization with an average team age of 24 years.

The Lucknow Literary Festival has been adorned with sundry of well – known names and faces that not only grace the event with their presence but also share their experiences, their insights with young and old alike.

While, on one hand, the Lucknow Literary Festival has become a hub of the glitz from all across the country, it also dawns the light upon Lucknow’s own talent and gives them a stage to showcase themselves in our cultural programs.

And then of course, there are books !!

LUCKNOW Society

Lucknow society, aims to preserve, promote and resurrect the inimitable culture and heritage of the city of nawabs, revive its past magnificence as it affects a modern grace. ‘Let’s Unite for Culture, Knowledge, Nationalism and Objective Welfare of Society’ –each character of the christening contains the fervor of commitment to the cause. Headed by a band of zealous lucknowites, the society came into force on 25^th April 2011 sanctioned under the Societies Registration Act (Act XXI of 1860) . In the four years following its momentous conception, it has worked ardently as a restorative of the city’s primal pride, acting as a crucial channel between governmental and non-governmental organizations, individual crusaders of its cause. Cultural pursuits have been redeemed from fading ruins of remembrance and records. Poets, writers, warriors, places, customs, the arts and a quintessential people all celebrated and deemed with dignity and respect that is their due.  Raising and revealing to the youth the soul of the city, its true and inspiring legacy and the onus that rests on them to uplift and sustain its cultural and social renovation, has been one of its essential occupation. Up, Aware and rooted in its regal inheritance that is the society’s goal for the city’s imminent heirs.

Festival Team

Shamim A. Aarzoo

Founder & CEO

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In spite of being a Non-Lucknowite by birth, the love he carries in his heart for Lucknow as well as Literature is incomparable. The zeal to carry forward the heritage and culture of the city of Nawabs led him to the foundation of the LUCKNOW Society, which reflects his efforts to preserve the unique Lucknawi Tehzeeb and makes every citizen proud of the unique culture and heritage of which Lucknow has been a home for an endless time period now. At the very same time Literature also played a very important role to bring out the best in him as the founder of the Lucknow Literary Festival and Editor in chief of the first english literary magazine of Lucknow, The Lucknow Observer.
Displaying great leadership and vision, he has led from the front in an effort to make Lucknow a better place and, at the same time, reviving what rightfully belongs to Lucknow. Be it awareness campaigns like Kyun Ki Shahar Hai Aapka or paying tributes to Lucknow’s legends in Shaam-e-Adab. His innovativeness has been his sharpest tool to serve the city, be it his initiatives like Let’s revive, Save Our Heritage, Know Your City, which are not only targeted to make the city what it once used to be but too to make the youth aware of what they have been missing for so long or be it the book he recently presented to the city, Discovering Lucknow, a coffee table book, which not only gives the minutiae of the monuments but too depicts them in the then and now effect.
Always mindful, always in search of the next level, he not only sets an example for others but also sets very high standards for himself that ultimately set him apart from everyone.

Akansha

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Content

Kapil Pal

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Eveta Roy

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Content

Anusha Awasthi

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Pabneesh Chandi

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Content

Associates

Supporting Partners

Knowledge Partners

Radio Partner

Hospitality Partner

Beverage Partner

Technology Partner

Outdoor Partners

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Day 1

Inauguration Ceremony

Launch of Lucknow Observer

(Lucknow’s 1st interactive news magazine)

Story Telling by Sanjeev Jaiswal in association with Pratham Books

Story writing interactive session

Book Launch : The Politickle Pickle – Shreyas Navare

Book Launch & Reading : Young Tagore – Sudhir Kakar

Interactive session for youth Role of Youth in Nation Development

by Ashok Arora in association with Beam Foundation

Book Launch : Aadab Lucknow – Kamlesh Tripathi & Sujata Tripathi

Book Launch : Discovering Lucknow – Shamim A. Aarzoo & Atif Hanif

Panel Discussion : Who Owns Lucknow