Solan, March 28
The much-anticipated fifth edition of the Shoolini Literature Festival commenced with great enthusiasm, bringing together celebrated personalities from literature, cinema, music, and media. The festival unfolded as a vibrant confluence of ideas, creativity, and literary brilliance.
Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali captivated the audience with his life philosophy, urging individuals to embrace their journey rather than just chasing end goals. In conversation with Chief Learning Officer Dr Ashoo Khosla, Imtiaz Ali told the students that “one must enjoy the journey” and asked them to “follow your instincts, take responsibility for your actions, and pursue what truly resonates with you”.
Reflecting on his early days in Jamshedpur, Ali recounted how his fascination with storytelling began in childhood, weaving imaginative tales that laid the foundation for his future in cinema. He emphasised the importance of embracing one’s unique storytelling voice, encouraging aspiring artists to draw from personal experiences and cultural roots to create authentic narratives. His candid anecdotes provided the audience with a deeper understanding of the creative process and the significance of staying true to one’s artistic vision.
In another session veteran actor Kanwaljit Singh emphasised the importance of reading in an era dominated by digital distractions. “Young minds need to put their mobile phones aside and immerse themselves in books. Reading enriches vocabulary and knowledge, shaping perspectives in a way no screen can,” he said.
In a riveting session with veteran journalist and Director, School of Media and Communications, Vipin Pubby, Singh shared anecdotes from his career and his role in the film Mrs., describing how the experience transformed him personally and professionally. His session, filled with humour and wisdom, resonated deeply with the audience. “Fitness, both mental and physical, is crucial for every role in life. One must always be prepared, take risks, and push beyond comfort zones,” he remarked.
A key highlight of the event was the introduction of the Shoolini Sahitya Samman, a prestigious award recognising outstanding contributions to literature. Additionally, the festival witnessed the release of books by Shoolini University authors, further cementing its role as a literary powerhouse. Festival Director Dr. Ashoo Khosla highlighted the festival’s diverse workshops, covering topics such as screen adaptation, mindfulness, puppetry, and philately, offering participants hands-on learning experiences.
Simultaneously, the Shoolini Flower Fest was inaugurated, showcasing a vibrant floral exhibition and promoting environmental sustainability. Complementing this, the Glitch Tech Fest featured hackathons, e-sports championships, and interactive tech showcases, highlighting the innovative spirit of the youth.
