Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Bhopal Literature Fest Cancels Babur Session Amid Protest Fears
A book session at the Bhopal Literature and Art Festival was cancelled because some people thought it was about praising a historical figure named Babur.
The author, Aabhas Maldahiyar, said his book actually criticizes Babur and shows him as an invader.
Some officials and media outlets criticized the book without reading it, and the festival organizers cancelled the session to avoid protests.
The author is sad because he thinks people should read and understand the book before judging it.
He also said that honest books should show both good and bad sides of people.
The newspaper 'Swadesh' claimed they were not against the book but questioned its relevance.
The police also asked for the session to be cancelled to prevent any problems.
A session on the book 'Babur - The Quest for Hindustan' was cancelled at the Bhopal Literature and Art Festival.
Author Aabhas Maldahiyar claims the book critically examines Babur's role as an invader in Indian history.
The cancellation followed media reports and criticism from state officials who allegedly did not read the book.
Organizers cancelled the session to prevent potential protests and disruption to the festival.
Maldahiyar expressed disappointment, arguing that the book equips readers with tools to critically debate Babur's legacy.
- Who
- Aabhas Maldahiyar, author of 'Babur - The Quest for Hindustan'
- What
- Cancellation of a session at the Bhopal Literature and Art Festival
- When
- January 10 (scheduled), cancelled at the last minute
- Where
- Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
- Why
- Fear of protests and possible disruption, following media reports and criticism from state officials
Author and Festival Organizers
Media and Right-Wing Organizations
Book's Content and Intent
Author and Festival Organizers
The book critically examines Babur's role as an invader and provides tools for debate.
Media and Right-Wing Organizations
The newspaper 'Swadesh' considers Babur irrelevant and questions the book's relevance in the current context.
Reason for Cancellation
Author and Festival Organizers
The session was cancelled due to threats and fear of vandalism from right-wing organizations.
Media and Right-Wing Organizations
The newspaper 'Swadesh' claims they were not against the book or the author but questioned the relevance of the topic.
- Author
- Aabhas Maldahiyar
- Book Title
- Babur - The Quest for Hindustan
- Festival Venue
- Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal
- Scheduled Date
- January 10
- Reason for Cancellation
- Fear of protests and possible disruption, following media reports and criticism from state officials
- Newspaper Involved
- Swadesh
- Festival Dates
- January 9 to 11
