The fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival, hosted by Alliance University from February 13-15, stood out as a premier platform for intellectual discourse. Centered around the theme "The Asian Century," the event highlighted Asia’s growing influence on global narratives and its rich literary, artistic, and cultural landscape.
Panel discussions explored a wide range of topics, including Asia’s economic ascent, the impact of migration, environmental challenges, the rise of Asian athletes, and the continent’s role in education, sports, and innovation. The exchange of ideas fostered cultural preservation and meaningful societal transformation.
Javed Akhtar on anger and masculinity
One of the most captivating moments of the festival came from poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar. In a thought-provoking discussion, he explored how masculinity and anger have transformed over time. Examining the popular cinematic trope of the Angry Young Man, he argued that this character was often misunderstood—his anger stemmed from dissatisfaction with deep-rooted injustices rather than from a desire to oppress others.
“Anyone who is angry with the weaker, the dispossessed-that is not anger. That person is a bully, masking insecurities. True anger should be directed toward the powerful, those benefiting from unjust structures. Anger toward the weak is nothing more than cowardly tantrums,” Akhtar remarked. He further emphasized the dangers of misplaced aggression and entitlement overshadowing authentic struggles. He also highlighted the role of parenting in shaping gender perceptions, calling for a shift towards a balance between strength and vulnerability.
Encouraging the young to stay relevant
While speaking to the younger generation, Akhtar urged them to remain adaptable in an ever-evolving world. “Relevance is not about rigidly holding onto past wisdom but about embracing evolving perspectives. Openness, curiosity, and adaptability are key. The youth today have a sharper moral and aesthetic compass than we did.”
By offering a space for diverse voices and groundbreaking ideas, the festival reinforced the importance of cultural dialogue, intellectual enrichment, and Asia’s growing impact on the global stage.l growth, and Asia’s role in shaping global narratives.
