Gandhi is of contemporary relevance, not just a memory: Sunil P. Ilayidam

“Mahatma Gandhi is not just a memory of the past, he is of relevance at the present,” said writer and orator Sunil P. Ilayidam, while addressing a session on “Gandhi, Guru and Society” at the ongoing International Literature Festival of Kerala at Kerala Sahitya Akademi on Tuesday.

He reflected on the historic meeting between Mahatma Gandhi and Sree Narayana Guru, noting that it had deeply influenced the course of India’s national movement. “From its very beginning, nationalism carried a vedic and brahmanical overtone, and the seeds of religious nationalism were sown as early as the first decades of the 19th century,” Mr. Ilayidam observed. “Gandhi was an organic philosopher who addressed the material problems of human life.”

The day’s sessions witnessed vibrant poetry readings, with contemporary poets bringing their latest works to life through rhythm and melody. The recitals, chaired by veteran poet Raavunni, left the audience enthralled. Among those who participated were S. Kalesh, M.B. Manoj, Shailan, Vinod Vaishakhi, M.S. Banesh, Divakaran Vishnumangalam, Sabu Kottukkal, Ashokan Marayoor, Bilu C. Narayanan, Shantan, and K.V. Sumithra.

At the panel “Story: Writing Experiences,” writer Isaac Eapen remarked, “Only writers who know the tensions of the times can withstand the test of history.” Senior writer and editor P.K. Parakkadavu moderated the discussion. Writer V.H. Nishad said, “Writers progress by preserving memories,” while V.K.K. Ramesh added, “Only those who dare to wound the self can rise in literature.” Young short story writers Ajijesh Pachatt, Akhila K.S., and Mridul V.M. also took part.

In a conversation with writer and bureaucrat Divya S. Iyer, novelist Subhash Chandran underlined the strength of artistic freedom. “Artists are those who can stand unbowed before any power,” he said. “Literature is an art capable of creating wonders. Malayalam, with the word kalpana (imagination), is a powerful language that merges the command of authority with the creativity of the artist.”

Another session, led by writer V.S. Bindu, focused on the struggles and progress of women. “We still have a long way to travel before reaching the new era of womanhood,” she stressed. The discussion touched upon the rise of masculinity among young men, the absence of women in frontline politics, women’s representation in the media, and the larger struggles of survival. Panelists included C.S. Chandrika, K. Anushree, Jisa Jose, Sreeja Shyam, Binu G. Thampi, Drishya Padmanabhan, and Dakshina.

Writers Vaisakhan, T.D. Ramakrishnan, Shinilal and Mini Prasad took part in another panel discussion titled ‘Theevandi, Sahityam, Keralam.’