JLF 2026: 'The Kumbh Mela of Literature' or a 'Corporate Spectacle'
JLF 2026: 'The Kumbh Mela of Literature' or a 'Corporate Spectacle' CHHOTA AKHBAR The JLF witnessed intellectual bankruptcy and a "circus-like" atmosphere. The organizers may be proud of the large turnout, but the truth is that 80 percent of the attendees were there only to create 'Instagram Reels' and take selfies with celebrities. Even during serious discussions between sessions, there was constant noise and laughter from the food stalls in the background. Is this a celebration of literature or the opening of a shopping mall? The Dictatorship of Wealthy and Influential Families in the Name of Literature: The organizers talk about 'inclusivity,' but in reality, the festival has become a clique of wealthy and influential families. Ordinary Hindi or regional language writers are marginalized, while writers who speak English with a 'foreign accent' are given preferential treatment. Velvet sofas for those with the ₹14,000 per day 'Fri...