Archive · 24 Jan 2026
Lit Fests: Silence on Radical Voices
Shobhaa De writes about the changing atmosphere at literary festivals in India.
She notes that radical voices and debates are being suppressed.
Authors who are seen as troublemakers are not invited, and books critical of the government are missing.
Debates and discussions are muted, and attendees are cautious about asking sensitive questions.
She compares the current situation to the lively, open debates of the past.
Additionally, she mentions political issues in Maharashtra, including the release of Shiv Sena corporators and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's visit to Davos to attract investment.
Literary festivals in India are increasingly suppressing radical voices and debates.
Authors seen as troublemakers are not invited, and critical books are missing.
Attendees are cautious about asking sensitive questions due to fear of repercussions.
Foreign speakers face visa delays or denials, limiting their participation.
Political issues in Maharashtra include the release of Shiv Sena corporators and the chief minister's visit to Davos.
- Who
- Authors, attendees, and organizers of literary festivals in India
- What
- Suppression of radical voices and debates at literary festivals
- When
- During the current literary festival season
- Where
- Various literary festivals across India
- Why
- Due to government and sponsor scrutiny, leading to self-censorship and muted discussions
- Author
- Shobhaa De
- Event
- Literary Festivals in India
- Concern
- Suppression of radical voices and debates
- Impact
- Self-censorship among authors and attendees
- Example
- Foreign speakers facing visa delays or denials
- Comparison
- Past lively debates vs. current muted discussions
- Political Context
- Shiv Sena's internal power struggle in Maharashtra
- Chief Minister's Activity
- Devendra Fadnavis at Davos to attract Swiss investment
