Show the right mirror to the society Author: Renowned poet-novelist Prof. Vikas Sharma threw light on contemporary literature.

Lucknow. A very interesting literary event titled “Meet the Author” was held at the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) of Lucknow University in the capital Lucknow, in which eminent poet, novelist and scholar Prof. of the English Department of Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut. Vikas Sharma was present as the keynote speaker. Students, researchers and literature lovers enthusiastically participated in this program focused on contemporary literature. The event was organized under the dynamic direction of Dr. Anupama Srivastava, Director, Institute of Tourism Studies and the successful steering of Dr. Pawan Shukla, Coordinator, Association of English Teachers, Lucknow. The presence of special guests in the program further enhanced its dignity. Mr. Sanjay David, Chairman, Sarthi Foundation marked his presence, while the presence of Dr. Manoj Pandey, President, LUACTA (Lucknow University Associated Colleges Teachers Association) made this literary festival more meaningful.

Giving the keynote address, Prof. Vikas Sharma discussed in detail the emerging trends in contemporary literature, new content-craft, changing cultural perspectives and the role that literature plays in understanding the socio-psychological realities. His conversational style and deep literary analysis greatly impressed the audience. In her welcome address, Dr. Anupama Srivastava described such events as important for developing literary sensitivity among students and praised the active contribution of the Association of English Teachers.

Program coordinator Dr. Pawan Shukla said that author-reader dialogue gives students an opportunity to understand literature from the creator’s point of view. He expressed his gratitude towards the university administration and the guests present. Dr. Manoj Pandey appreciated this initiative and said that such events are very important to promote literary dialogue. In the dialogue session held at the end, students asked questions on contemporary fiction, criticism and emerging writerly voices, which were answered by Prof. Sharma gave a very thought provoking answer. Overall, “Meet the Author” event proved to be a memorable literary event of Lucknow University, which provided an informative, inspiring and enjoyable experience to all the attendees.