The Khushwant Literary Festival, celebrating the legacy of celebrated author Khushwant Singh, kicked off its 14th edition on Friday in the scenic hill town of Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh. The three‑day event drew writers, journalists and fans to honor Singh’s impact on Indian literature and journalism.
A key speaker was former Research and Analysis Wing chief A.S. Dulat, who used the festival as a platform to call for renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan. Referencing Singh’s famed novel “Train to Pakistan,” Dulat urged leaders to meet on the “warm handshake” of both diplomacy and sports, insisting that cricket ties also need to be nurtured. “If you don’t want to play with Pakistan, don’t do it, but if you are playing a match then handshakes should not be an issue,” he told reporters.
Dulat also warned about a growing “Gen Z turmoil” sweeping the country, pointing to the recent unrest in Ladakh as a warning sign. He stressed that the escalating militancy in Jammu and Kashmir had deeper roots and called for urgent talks to prevent further conflict. “After the Kargil conflict, then‑Prime Minister Atal Bahadur Vajpayee invited General Pervez Musharraf—who had masterminded the intrusion—for talks in Agra,” he said, underscoring the importance of cross‑border communication despite challenges.
The festival’s atmosphere was a mix of literary celebration and political reflection. In a relaxed session, Bollywood actor and “Crime Patrol” star Anup Soni highlighted how stress‑driven violence can be mitigated through better social interaction and mediation. “Violence in society is generated out of stress,” he said. “Social interaction and mediation need to be part of our lives.”
The Khushwant Literary Festival provided a venue for such voices, combining cultural appreciation with real‑world concerns. As discussions continued, many noted that a spirit of openness—whether in politics or on the cricket field—could help bridge divides in a country that is constantly evolving.
For readers looking for more on Kasauli, India‑Pakistan relations, and the legacy of Khushwant Singh, the festival’s events and insights are a timely reminder of the power of dialogue, literature, and public engagement.
Source: ianslive
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