Mon Nov 04 22:05:47 UTC 2024: ## Malayalam Language Takes Center Stage at Lana Literary Festival
**New York:** The Lana Literary Festival, which commenced on November 1st, saw a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of the Malayalam language by renowned novelist and short story writer E. Santosh Kumar. The Kerala Sahitya Akademi awardee emphasized the role of language in connecting the global community, lamenting the demise of numerous languages while highlighting its crucial role in nation formation and independence.
The festival’s opening ceremony was unique, incorporating lines from the works of six Jnanpith Award winners and excerpts from Basheer’s writings. It was presided over by Shankar Manay, President of the Literary Association of North America, and attended by Malayalam writers from across the United States and Canada.
The three-day festival delved into various linguistic aspects through discussions and presentations. A tribute to the late K.K. Johnson was paid to former Lana members Dr. M.S.T. Namboothiri, Abraham Thekkemuri, and Reeni Mambalam. The festival also celebrated the selection of Jayan K. Sia’s film “Rhythm of Dammam” for the Kerala Competition category at an international film festival.
The event was graced by the presence of Anilal Niwasan (Lana Advisory Board Chairman), Samuel Yohannan (Lana Secretary), Jose Ochalil (Former Lana President), J. Mathews (Convention Vice Chairman, Former Lana President), Shibu Pillai (Lana Treasurer), Samsi Kodumon (Convention Treasurer, Former Lana Secretary), Abdul Punnayoorkulam (Former Lana Secretary), and Raju Thomas (Secretary, Kerala Center, Convention Committee Member), who extended their greetings.
Corason Varghese and Uma Sajee anchored the inaugural ceremony, while Jacob John expressed gratitude. The program continued with a poetry session where members presented their works, moderated by Bindu T.G. and Jacob John.
Professor Dr. Chandradasan, a renowned actor, director, and educator, delivered a captivating lecture titled “Drama, Cinema, and the Present,” shedding light on emerging trends in visual arts, the contemporary approach of breaking boundaries to engage audiences, the theoretical challenges within the theatrical sphere, and the need for fresh perspectives. Anashwar Mamballi expressed gratitude for the insightful lecture.
The Lana Literary Festival stands as a testament to the vitality and enduring power of the Malayalam language, fostering a platform for cultural exchange and enriching conversations about literature and its evolving landscape.
First Piper 