Jaipur Literature Festival and Protests by Fanatics

New Delhi, Jan 21: Over the years,

Festival has grown as a prominent platform to promote rich literary heritage of India and its neighbouring countries.

However, unfortunately the festival has been hijacked by fanatics belonging to both Hindu and Muslim communities. Last year, there was a "hue and cry" over Salman Rushdie's controversial book "The Satanic Verses". The author was banned from addressing the visitors at the festival through a video conference from US.

Even before Jaipur Literature Festival 2013 could begin this year, controversies have already started haunting it. The lit fiesta is slated from Jan 24 to 28.

This time ,several Islamist groups have threatened the organisers of the festival not to allow the participation of four authors who had last year read out passages from Rushdie's The Satanic Verses. The four authors are Amitava Kumar, Ruchir Sharma, Jeet Thayil and Hari Kunzru.

Now, leaders of BJP and RSS from Rajasthan too have threatened to disrupt the event. Police sources say they are opposing the participation of seven Pakistani authors.

However, Rajasthan Police has assured to provide safety at the venue of the event.

DSC Jaipur Literature Festival is the largest literary festival in Asia-Pacific and the most prestigious celebration of national and international literature to be held in India, says the website of the festival. It encompasses a range of readings, talks, debates, performances, children's workshops and interactive activities held in the beautiful heritage property, Diggi Palace in the Rajasthani capital of Jaipur.

"Entering its sixth year, JLF is now regarded as the Kumbh Mela of Indian and international writing, drawing in writers and readers from across India and the wider world: From America, Europe, Africa and from across the breadth of South Asia, the brightest, most brilliant, funny, moving and remarkable authors come to Jaipur every January," says JLF website.

OneIndia News