Kalinga Literary Festival aims for equal dialogue beyond borders in Nepal

Cross-border cultural initiatives in South Asia often navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. The Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF), rooted in India's Odisha, has established a presence in Nepal, aiming to foster a space for mutual respect and equal literary conversation between the two nations' traditions.

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KLF Kathmandu was never envisioned as a one-way projection of culture from India to Nepal. From its inception, we conceived it as a platform for mutual respect and equal literary conversation between traditions that, though historically connected, have always remained distinct and independent.

Organizers state the festival's theme, ‘Beyond Borders,’ is intended to dismantle hierarchies and create a sanctuary for writers and scholars to meet outside the constraints of official state narratives. The KLF approaches Kathmandu with humility, recognizing Nepal's distinct and independent literary culture. They emphasize that the initiative is not an exercise in Indian soft power but a platform for dialogue.

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The phrase ‘Beyond Borders’ is not an attempt to erase histories or identities. Instead, it is about creating a sanctuary where writers and scholars can meet outside the constraints of official state narratives.

Maintaining editorial autonomy is a key focus for the KLF. The festival's founder and director, Rashmi Ranjan Parida, asserts that literature loses its moral authority if it becomes an extension of power. While collaborating with sponsors, KLF ensures that curatorial decisions, themes, authors, and moderators, are based on literary merit and regional relevance, not outsourced. Sponsors provide the platform, but the intellectual boundaries are protected by a local team in Kathmandu that understands Nepal's literary landscape and aspirations.

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We approach Kathmandu with humility rather than entitlement, understanding that any cross-border initiative must respect Nepal’s proud and deeply rooted literary culture.

Addressing fears of local writers being marginalized, KLF highlights its commitment to integrating the local literary community. The festival aims to ensure that the initiative is perceived as a genuine collaboration, respecting and amplifying Nepali voices within the cross-border cultural exchange.

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We are acutely aware that literature loses its moral authority if it becomes a mere extension of power. While we collaborate with partners and sponsors, our curatorial decisions are never outsourced.