‘Parde Ke Peechhe lies lifetime of stories’: Ila Arun Shoolini LitFest

Vikas Swarup: ‘Stories That Make People Think and Feel’

Solan, March 28
Shoolini University campus witnessed an intellectually stimulating and culturally enriching event as distinguished personalities from literature, music, theater, and management shared their insights in engaging conversations on the second day of Spring and Litfest
The day featured celebrated author and former diplomat Ambassador Vikas Swarup, renowned singer and actress Ila Arun, and eminent management guru Prof. Radhakrishnan Pillai, in thought-provoking discussions with Prof. Atul Khosla, Prof. Ashish Khosla, Amb. Sanjiv Arora, Ms. Anjula Bedi, and Dr. Kunwar Siddharth Dadhwal respectively.
Amb. Vikas Swarup in conversation with Prof. Atul Khosla, Prof. Ashish Khosla and Amb. Sanjiv Arora diplomat-turned-author, Amb. Vikas Swarup, best known for his novel Q and A, which inspired the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire—engaged in an insightful discussion. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades in Indian diplomacy, he shared anecdotes from his journey as the High Commissioner of India to Canada and his tenure as the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. Swarup spoke passionately about his transition from diplomacy to writing, emphasising how literature allows him to tell compelling stories that reflect India’s social realities. His other literary works, including The Girl with the Seven Lines, further highlight his storytelling prowers.
In another session, Ms. Ila Arun in conversation with Ms. Anjula Bedi legendary actress and singer Ms. Ila Arun mesmerised the audience with her reflections on a four-decade-long journey in the world of theater, music, and cinema. Known for iconic songs like Choli Ke Peeche and Ringa Ringa, and acclaimed performances in films such as Lamhe, Jodhaa Akbar, and Begum Jaan, Ila Arun spoke passionately about her deep-rooted connection to storytelling. Her latest book, Parde Ke Peechhe, inspired by her life in theater, resonated with the audience as she delved into the challenges and triumphs of an artist’s journey. The conversation, skillfully moderated by Ms. Anjula Bedi, explored the transformative power of storytelling in performing arts.
During the session in LitFest, Prof. Radhakrishnan Pillai in conversation with Dr. Kunwar Siddharth Dadhwal renowned management expert and author Prof. Radhakrishnan Pillai, celebrated for his works on leadership and governance inspired by the ancient strategist Chanakya, captivated the audience with his insights. In an engaging dialogue with Dr. Kunwar Siddharth Dadhwal, he highlighted the timeless relevance of Chanakya’s teachings in contemporary management. Prof. Pillai, a sought-after speaker and consultant, emphasised the importance of ethical leadership and strategic thinking in today’s fast-paced world. His discussion left the audience enriched with valuable lessons on management and personal growth.