The Write Track

Indian-born author and poet Mukta Sambrani who read excerpts from her books ‘Broomrider’s book of the Dead’ and also from ‘Five poems for mothers who speak no English’ says,“While both Mani and I are visiting members for the forum,it has been an interesting event for us. The enthusiasm of the people who had come in,was brilliant.”

Speaking more about the initiative,Khare says,“There are a lot of book clubs and reading sessions organised in the city but there is still a lot of scope for live interaction. I just wanted to make sure that it would happen on a platform where people would be free to talk,share their ideas and experiences and in the process enrich not just their own understanding of the works that are read there but also of the people presenting.”

The forum amidst enthusiasts saw a huge number of expats turning up for the poetry reading session. Poet Mani Rao who is well known for her poems amidst literary circles,read poems from her book ‘Ghostmasters’ namely,’Pot Pot’,’Address’ and ‘Ode to Kali’,much to the appreciation of the enthralled audience.

Planning to make it a monthly affair,Khare stresses on the fact that in order to gather more steam and a bigger platform,the event needs to be held at least once a month. “The reading sessions will be held not just in English but also other Indian languages. The stress is not just upon making the event more lively but of a more critical sense such that there can be in depth discussions and analysis,” he says.

Talking about her experience at the inaugural session Rao says,“It is a one off event that will grow and become really big in the future. While it is difficult for me to shuttle between America where I stay and Pune,I really think I will come down for the sessions whenever I am in India. What is impressive is that people are enthusiastic. That makes events like these ‘events’ of an interactive nature.”

Eventually Khare plans to give the forum a bigger platform by organising an annual Multi-Lingual Poetry festival. “Just think about it,some of the best names in literature and poetry,all assembling under one roof with the sole purpose of promoting their culture,language and works amongst the audience. Think of the wealth of literature-based experience that everyone can take back. While we will take small steps towards this goal,we are sure with active participation we will see this dream also materialise in the future,” concludes Khare.