Chief Guests
Smt K. R. Meera
Smt K. R. Meera started her career as a journalist in the Malayala Manorama daily newspaper. She is one of the most prominent authors of contemporary Malayalam literature, writing several novels including the award-winning novel “Aarachar”, as well as many short stories. Her journalistic narration style and unparalleled depiction of complex, strong female characters have led to great acclaim, including the Kerala and Kendra Sahithya Academy Awards, the Vayalar and Odakkuzhal Awards
Programme of Events
- Ashtalakshmi – Dance. An ode to the eight different avatars of the Goddess Lakshmi, this dance explored the myriad of expressions of the human faith- the journey to find courage, strength, wisdom and wealth. This dance performance showcased a variety of Indian classical dance forms including Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and incorporates elements of Kalari, folk and contemporary dance forms.
- Nadasalabhangal – Children’s Music programme- Young musicians of Sruthi on stage singing Malayalam and English songs most melodiously with accompanying live orchestra.
- Tharangam- Dance. A comparative demonstration of the three south Indian classical dance forms – Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam and Kuchipudi.
- Ragam Thaalam Layam –A musical journey to explore the three terms that define the very essence of Indian music - Ragam, Thaalam, Layam. The programme tried to discover the mystic beauty of the twin Ragas – Kalyani and Yamuna Kalyani, followed by a demonstration of the popular rhythms (Thaalams), linked by melodious improvisation (Layam)
- Kalyanasougandhikam – Dance. Thematic Bharatanatyam recital based on Vayalar Ramavarma’s poem “Kalyanasougandhikam” which tells the story of Droupadi being enamoured by the mysterious fragrance of the flower and Bheema with extreme self-esteem setting off to get the flower, meeting Hanuman on his way
- Aarachar – Drama. An adaptation of the award-winning novel “Aarachar” written by Smt. K. R. Meera. Written on the background of Kolkatta, the story narrates the inner struggles of the young and bold Chetana, from a family of executioners, who inherits the profession from her father.
- Mukhamukham - Interview with the Chief Guest conducted by Chovodath Unnikrishnan and Shobha Arun, in which she discussed her short stories, the importance of political themes in her writing, and misconceptions she battled as a woman in the literature scene.
