Half Day Pass – Morning, 18th January 2025

9:30 am – 9:40 am | Cultural performance

9:45 am – 10:25 am | Diversity Reckoning 

Max Czollek in conversation with Savithri Rodrigo

Max Czollek presents his vision for “radical diversity” as an alternative to the traditional politics of tolerance and assimilation. Drawing on his critiques of post-WWII German cultural policies, Czollek argues for a future where diversity is embraced not as an exception but as a fundamental principle, examining how radical diversity reshapes the way we view citizenship, culture, and politics, pushing for a more inclusive and multifaceted societal structure that transcends binary notions of identity. Czollek also brings a critical lens to the ongoing immigration crisis in Germany as an opportunity to rethink national identity and the social integration of displaced communities, advocating for peace through mutual recognition. 

10:30 am – 11:10 am | People, Places, and Pilgrimages 

William Dalrymple, introduced by Angeline Ondaatjie

An engaging session that uncovers the vibrant interplay between history and modern life. Discover how ancient traditions and historical events continue to shape the people, festivals, and places featured in Dalrymple’s The Golden Road. Experience the enduring legacy of the past as we delve into its influence on contemporary culture.

11:15 am – 12:00 pm | Globetrotters’ Tales

Mihiri Wikramanayake, Sunela Jayawardane in conversation with Arati Kumar-Rao

Mihiri Wickramanayake and Sunela Jayawardane share hilarious mishaps, unexpected encounters, and the thrill of capturing journeys on paper. With tales that range from the inspiring to the downright comical, they’ll dive into the joys and quirks of transforming travel experiences into vivid stories. Whether you’re a globetrotter or an armchair traveller, this session promises laughter, a sense of wonder, and tips on making travel writing come alive!

12:05 pm – 12:45 pm | Desperately Seeking Asia

Shrayana Bhattacharya in conversation with Murtaza Jafferjee

Delve into Shrayana Bhattacharya’s Desperately Seeking Shah Rukh, highlighting how women navigate desires through fandom, reflecting broader themes of economic freedom, intimacy and agency. Explore the role of economic development in fostering creativity and Asia’s influence on the global cultural landscape.

12:50 pm – 1:30 pm | Lipstick, Laughs, Life in the Spotlight

Ratna Pathak Shah in conversation with Jerry Pinto

Celebrating the extraordinary talent of Ratna Pathak Shah with a focus on some of her iconic roles in Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai, Dhak Dhak, Happy Family, and Lipstick Under My Burkha—her thought process in choosing characters and whether she reflects on her past roles while selecting new ones. What would an interaction between some of these characters look like? Touch upon the darker realities behind the scenes—such as labour inequality, gender disparities, and the commodification of art–in an industry that often thrives on appearances.