Three-day literary extravaganza brought together renowned authors, filmmakers, actors & thought leaders to share insights.
What happens when literature, cinema, music, and media come together? The result is an inspiring festival of ideas, and that’s exactly what the fifth edition of the Shoolini Literature Festival delivered. Hosted from March 28, this three-day literary extravaganza brought together renowned authors, filmmakers, actors, and thought leaders to share insights and experiences.
Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali set the tone for the festival, urging individuals to embrace their journey rather than chase end goals. In a conversation with Chief Learning Officer Dr Ashoo Khosla, Ali told students, “Follow your instincts, take responsibility for your actions, and pursue what truly resonates with you.” Reflecting on his early days in Jamshedpur, he recounted how his fascination with storytelling began in childhood, weaving imaginative tales that laid the foundation for his future in cinema. When asked about making a film on the Shoolini campus, he said he would title it, "The 5th Chapter”.
Next to grab the attention of the audience was veteran actor Kanwaljit Singh, who is making waves with his recent role in the film ‘Mrs’. In an engaging session filled with wit and wisdom, led by veteran journalist and Director, School of Media and Communications, Vipin Pubby, the celebrity actor talked about the importance of reading in an era dominated by digital distractions. “Young minds must 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.
Kanwaljit Singh also shared personal anecdotes from his career, reflecting on the unpredictability of the film industry. With a humorous touch, he recalled how his initial motivation for joining films was the dream of owning a Mercedes-Benz—a dream that took an ironic turn when he visited Germany and realised that even taxis there were Mercedes. "Ironically, I never ended up buying one," he chuckled.
On a more serious note, he addressed nepotism in Bollywood, stating that while family connections exist, many actors have carved out successful careers through sheer talent and perseverance. “There is nepotism in every field—people naturally follow their family profession—but ultimately, talent and effort determine one’s success,” he said.
Expressing his love for the mountains, he said, “Whenever I visit the hills, I feel like I am in the arms of an elder brother."
The festival also saw an impassioned discussion on folk music by renowned folk singer Sunaini Sharma, who raised concerns about the distortion of folk lyrics by modern composers. "Folk music is like a living library that must be preserved with authenticity," she asserted. Sharing her deep-rooted musical lineage—her grandmother, Surinder Kaur, was a pioneer of folk music, and her mother, Dolly Guleria, continued the legacy—Sharma lamented the fading tradition of wedding songs like ‘Banne’ and ‘Suhag ke Geet’, now overshadowed by loud DJ music at modern weddings.
The festival also featured a host of celebrated personalities, including acclaimed author and former diplomat Ambassador Vikas Swarup, renowned singer-actress Ila Arun, and eminent management guru Prof Radhakrishnan Pillai, who engaged in thought-provoking discussions with Shoolini University Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla, President Marketing & Innovation Prof Ashish Khosla, and Ambassador Sanjiv Arora.
Best known for his novel Q & A, which inspired the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, Ambassador Vikas Swarup spoke passionately about his transition from diplomacy to writing, emphasising how literature allows him to tell compelling stories reflecting India’s social realities. His other literary works, including ‘The Girl with the Seven Lives’, further highlight his storytelling prowess.
Veteran actress and singer Ila Arun mesmerised the audience with reflections on her four-decade-long journey in theatre, music, and cinema. Known for iconic songs like ‘Choli Ke Peeche’ and ‘Ringa Ringa’, as well as acclaimed performances in ‘Lamhe, Jodhaa Akbar’, and ‘Begum Jaan’, she spoke passionately about her deep-rooted connection to storytelling. Her latest book, ‘Parde Ke Peechhe’, inspired by her life in theatre, resonated with the audience. “Behind the curtain lies a lifetime of stories,” she shared, emphasising the transformative power of storytelling in the performing arts.
Prof Radhakrishnan Pillai, a leading leadership expert inspired by Chanakya’s teachings, captivated the audience with insights on ethical leadership and strategic thinking. In a dialogue with Assistant Prof Kunwar Siddharth Dadhwal, he highlighted the timeless relevance of Chanakya’s principles in modern management.
A special highlight of the festival was the ‘Shoolini Kavi Sammelan’, where acclaimed Poet Bhuvan Mohini, Poet Sarvesh Asthana, Actor Hemant Pandey, and celebrated lyricist Vishnu Saxena enthralled the audience with their verses. The session was a treat for poetry lovers. Nilotpal Mrinal, known for his sharp humour and keen observations, shared how preparing for the UPSC exam unexpectedly led him to poetry. His poem “What Would These Reel-Making Boys Know About the Magic of That Era?” was particularly well received.
A journalist-turned-writer and the author of the book ‘The Last Courtesan’ Manish Gaekwad was also present. He said, “Writing my courtesan mother’s story in the form of a book was not a literary endeavour but a deeply personal experience. However, I merely penned the story—my mother narrated it word by word, and I gave it the shape of a book. My mother wished that her story reach people so that no one is forced to live a life like hers.”
Actor and Video Jockey Shruti Seth led a deeply engaging session on mindfulness, emphasising the importance of self-awareness in today’s fast-paced world. She guided attendees through practical techniques for stress management and personal well-being, highlighting how mindfulness enhances creativity and focus. Her session resonated with students and professionals alike, offering valuable insights into achieving balance in personal and professional life. This was her second time at the Shoolini Lit Fest.
The festival also introduced the Shoolini Sahitya Samman, a prestigious award recognising outstanding contributions to literature. On the final day, a renowned writer from Himachal, SR Harnot, was honoured with the Shoolini Literature Award for his remarkable contribution to Hindi literature. In a heartfelt moment, he shared, “I was only invited here, but when two of my stories were presented, it was a surprising moment for me.” With 22 books to his credit, Harnot’s work continues to inspire.
Additionally, the festival witnessed book releases by Shoolini University authors, further cementing its role as a literary powerhouse. On completing the event, Festival Director Dr Ashoo Khosla said, “It’s always special to witness the power of stories and ideas shaping perspectives. This Lit Fest was a dream come true for many, with an inspiring lineup of renowned speakers. We’re thrilled by its success, and this is just the beginning—it will only grow bigger and better!"
With its rich confluence of literature, cinema, music, and thought leadership, the Shoolini Literature Festival 5.0 was an unforgettable experience for all. From compelling discussions to engaging performances, the festival celebrated the power of storytelling in all its forms, making it an unforgettable experience.
1 April, 2025