KSLF 2023: A Perfect Ode To The Late Author

The annual Khushwant Singh Literature Festival (KSLF) now in its 12th edition was well attended, with some debate, some emotions and some unapologetic moments, just how the author would have liked it.

Held from 13-15th October in the Kasauli club situated in the cantonment area of the charming hill station, it drew participants and visitors from cities such as Chandigarh, Delhi, Mumbai and even beyond.

Founder-Director Niloufer Billimoria has been at the helm of it since its inception. “It is interesting to note the enthusiasm and discussions that the festival prompts, which is in line with late author Khushwant Singh’s ideology of open exchange of ideas and free expression of thoughts.”

Kasauli being the summer home of Khushwant Singh, the event paid homage to the celebrated author’s legacy and values. The town is also where he did most of his writing in his ‘Raj Villa’.

Director and the son of the author, writer Rahul Singh, speaking on the occasion said, “The spectrum of topics, eminent speakers and the warm residents, altogether makes it special.”

The three-day event saw luminaries and think tanks addressing topical issues such as Artificial Intelligence, Indo- Canada relations, climate change offsets, drug regulation, elections, and mental wellbeing apart from others. Maj Gen Ian Cordozo cautioned against “getting caught in beaurocracy” stressing on the importance of unity in diversity as seen in the armed forces, provoking emotions as he read out excerpts from his latest book “Beyond Fear”!

The interesting mix of guests included TV personality, passionate baker and now author, Maria Goretti, who was present in the context of her poetry book ‘To the Moon and back’. Only too happy to be present, she said, “Literature festivals such as these make one think and encourage reading and more writing.”  Her book, based on 40 personal poems carefully put together through the pandemic, talks of deep emotions such as love and the name of the book itself is a take-off from her affectionate every night parting note to her kids!

The controversial presence of Indrani Mukherjea, the ex-media executive who was charged for killing her daughter, added to the curiosity. She was here because of her writing foray with the memoir ‘Unbroken’. 

All the way from Goa, author Olav Ofstav, who was here to speak on his new book, ‘Surviving Kidnappers’, said, “I love the honesty and courage in the festival.” His book holds relevance in today’s fragile world with insightful inputs on conflict management in peace operations.

The three days were interlaced with some fun and frolic as well. Evenings saw musical shows lined with laughter and lots of bonding with guards down and spirits up. Satyajit Sethi, ex-banker and Founder of Merlot Pines said, “As residents, we look forward to the highlight of the year. It brings depth and character to the quaint town. We all come under one roof and bond over the happenings of the day as we dine together and soak in the enriching environment”.

The message of the festival -- “Be the change you would like to see,” was inspired by the words of Mahatma Gandhi who was one of Khushwant Singh’s idols. The festival was a true reflection of the author’s style of addressing serious issues while keeping the tone chatty, engaging even provocative with nobody taking themselves too seriously!