BENGALURU | February 15, 2025: The fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival, hosted by Alliance University, Bengaluru, concluded on a high note, bringing together over 120 thought leaders from 25 countries to celebrate Asian literature, culture, and intellectual discourse. The festival, held from February 13-15, revolved around the theme “The Asian Century,” exploring Asia’s growing influence in global narratives.
One of the festival’s key highlights was an insightful session by renowned poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, who addressed modern masculinity and the role of anger in societal change. Speaking to an engaged audience, Akhtar emphasized that true anger should be directed at oppressive power structures, not the vulnerable.
> “Anyone who is angry with the weaker, the dispossessed—that is not anger. That person is a bully, masking insecurities. True anger should be directed toward the powerful, those benefiting from unjust structures. Anger toward the weak is nothing more than cowardly tantrums,” said Javed Akhtar.
Reflecting on the archetype of the Angry Young Man in cinema, Akhtar explained that such characters symbolize disillusionment with entrenched inequalities rather than aggression. He also examined how portrayals of masculinity in contemporary cinema are evolving, warning against entitlement and misplaced aggression. Stressing the role of parenting in shaping gender attitudes, he called for a cultural shift that embraces vulnerability alongside strength.
The festival was inaugurated by Mani Shankar Aiyar, former Panchayati Raj Minister, who highlighted the importance of dialogue in shaping the future. Legendary cricketer Anil Kumble and athlete Dr. Anju Bobby George inspired audiences with their stories of resilience.
The event blended literary discussions with cultural vibrancy, featuring performances such as Chhau dance from West Bengal and a Kathak recital by renowned artist Hari. Adding a touch of humor, stand-up comedian Shraddha Jain (popularly known as ‘Aiyyo Shraddha’) entertained the audience with her witty act.
Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership at Alliance University, emphasized the festival’s impact:
> “This dynamic literary confluence has been a space where diverse voices converge, ideas flourish, and the transformative power of literature ignites minds. The enthusiasm from students and the literary fraternity reaffirms the necessity of such platforms in shaping perspectives and fostering creativity.”
Adding to its legacy, the festival also marked the launch of “Suburbian,” an avant-garde magazine by Alliance University’s MA (Creative Writing) department, introduced by eminent Japanese authors Asako Yuzuki, Kanako Nishi, and Erika Kobayashi.
With its fusion of literature, culture, and intellect, the Alliance Literary Festival 2025 reaffirmed its status as a premier platform for global discourse, fostering meaningful conversations on identity, power, and the evolving landscape of the Asian century.
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