We thought much had been “sorted”. We thought the next generation of women would have it so much easier. However, misogyny seems to be emerging in ugly and vicious ways, in step with tendencies towards extremism, polarization, and intolerance that we are witnessing around the world. At Dhaka Lit Fest this year, we give credence to women’s experiences in all spheres, celebrating their voices on many different levels. A nascent #metoo movement is starting in Bangladesh, and the aftermath of #metoo in literature will be discussed by a panel of writers, publishers, and editors from Europe and the subcontinent. The importance of women’s depiction will be explored through oral traditions and myths with storyteller Sally Pomme Clayton while representation in the entertainment industry will be focused as we talk of breaking stereotypes with actors Manisha Koirala and Nandita Das. Women’s testimony documenting violence against women, in marginalized communities such as the Rohingya, will be emphasized as much as feats achieved by women breaking barriers, like inventor Sayeba Akhter. Multi-faceted writers such as Annie Zaidie, Jaishree Misra, and Himanjali Sankar will be joining us, whose work covers children books to young adult fiction to novels and plays to poetry and film.
With exciting developments in science and technology changing our lives forever, a sinister side has been surfacing—the manipulation of big data, a feeling of alienation and isolation among young people, and bullying, shaming and trial on social media. We explore the fundamental assumption that we have a right to privacy of our thoughts, with neuroscientist Garga Chatterjee, and TED TAlks science editor, David Bielio—who also explore how we can leverage technology in a sustainable and positive way with Rubaiyat Khan.
As writers we also feel pressure on our freedom to express—when extremist forces and intolerant regimes are clamping down on free thinkers. This year’s lit fest showcases brilliant novelists like Mohammed Hanif and Adam Johnson whose work draws light on the human spirit beyond despotic regimes and global politics, and the PEN Bangladesh session will discuss different aspects of freedom of expression.
In times like these there seems to be an urgent need to come together to communicate in real time—breathe the same air, discuss and debate, celebrate our diversity and differences, and reaffirm who we are. Let’s do what we Bangladeshis do best—have a good adda, get-together, let off steam, disagree, and agree. Let us take some time out to open our minds to different perspectives and ideas.
Dhaka Lit Fest stands to be a reminder to me that words and ideas are powerful; that, as writers, we will find a way to say what needs to be said, to observe and be a mirror for all that is happening around us, to reflect and stand witness to our times, and interrogate issues that will affect our direction as individuals and as communities.