KITAAB

From offering an inspiring growth model to the new state to preparing a blueprint of a futuristic capital, Singapore indeed seems to be the flavour of the season in this part of the country. But Singapore is not just a swanky city-state proud of its modern achievements; it is equally passionate about its cultural heritage.

The richness and diversity of Singapore’s literature and culture will be on show at the forthcoming Hyderabad Literature Festival (HLF) 2016 (7-10 Jan). Two years ago, the National Arts Council of Singapore, which functions under the Ministry of Culture, had sent a small delegation of writers to HLF to check out the festival. Apparently pleased by the way the festival was organized, the NAC has now readily acceded to HLF’s proposal to feature Singapore as the ‘Guest Nation’ at HLF 2016.

Mr Roy Kho, Singapore Consul-General in Chennai will be a guest of honour at the inaugural of HLF 2016, and six writers and nearly as many artistes will present their work at the festival in readings, panel discussions, workshops, and cultural events. Musicians of BronzAge Gamelan ensemble will accompany Rosemarie Somaiah of Asian Storytelling Network, Singapore’s first professional storytelling company, at the inaugural cultural event.

Besides, five animated short films produced by ‘The Filmic Eye’ will be screened at the festival. These films were produced under ‘Utter 2015’. Utter is a special initiative of the Singapore Writers Festival and it showcases the best of Singapore writing and celebrates its potential to be adapted into different media and across languages.

To complete the collaboration, Kitaab the Singapore-based publishing and multimedia company, which focuses mainly on Asian writing, is HLF’s official online media partner. Zafar Anjum, the founder and editor-in-chief of Kitaab, will participate in HLF both as a journalist and an author.