Lucknow's Cultural Heritage Takes Center Stage at Literary Festival
The fifth session of the Koshala literary festival transformed into a heartfelt tribute to Lucknow's rich cultural legacy. Titled 'Poetic Whispers', the event placed the city's unique identity, poetry, and refined manners at the forefront, presenting Lucknow not just as a place but as a profound emotion.
Distinguished Voices Unite for Lucknow
The stage brought together four notable personalities: poet-performer Monia Aljlais, Urdu scholar Abbas Raza Nayyar, motivational speaker Chandra Shekhar Varma, and poet Ranu Uniyal. Together, they wove a tapestry of words that captured the essence of the city known for its grace and literary heritage.
Nayyar and Varma skillfully described Lucknow's character through sensory experiences - the delicate aroma of ittar that lingers in the air, the exceptionally polite manner of speech among its people, and the historic homes where intimate mehfils once resonated with poetry and subtle humor. Their simple yet powerful verses reminded everyone present that in Lucknow, truly understanding a sher holds as much value as merely reciting it.
The Living History of Lucknow's Streets
The speakers emphasized that every corner of Lucknow carries echoes of its glorious past, visible in its architectural marvels, linguistic elegance, and time-honored traditions. They highlighted several iconic elements that define the city's character:
The charm of white embroidered kurtas, the architectural splendor of Rumi Darwaza, the historical significance of The Residency, and the serene flow of the Gomti River all received special mention as integral parts of Lucknow's identity.
Abbas Raza Nayyar shared insightful observations about mushairas, noting that even in large gatherings, genuine listeners who deeply appreciate poetry are always few. This candid remark drew both laughter and appreciative applause from the engaged audience.
A Heartwarming Conclusion
The session concluded with an overwhelmingly positive response from attendees as the poets collectively painted an authentic portrait of a city where poetry breathes in everyday life. The event successfully demonstrated that the legendary tehzeeb of Lucknow continues to shine brightly, preserving its unique cultural spirit for future generations.
Through their powerful performances and discussions, the participants reinforced that Lucknow remains a living, breathing embodiment of poetic expression and cultural refinement where art and life seamlessly intertwine.
