Expectations high at Jaipur Literary Fest

At least 16,000 people are likely to attend the five-day Jaipur Literary Festival beginning January 20.

Among the visitors, there are 250 national and international authors, and Union ministers Kapil Sibal and Kumari Sejla may also attend.

Rajasthan chief secretary S Ahemad has told police to ensure that law and order are maintained during the festival.

Meanwhile, Khursheed Ahemad of Jamat-e-Islami Hind said they will hold a “peaceful protest” if author Salman Rushdie participates in the event.

The Jaipur Literature Festival is now widely acknowledged as the Kumbh Mela of Indian and international writing, drawing writers and readers from across India and the wider world: from the Americas, Europe,  Africa and across the breadth of South Asia, the brightest, most brilliant, funny, moving  and remarkable all come to Jaipur in January.

The offerings this time are as diverse as in previous years, with session subjects ranging from myth, religion, art, architecture, archaeology and music to gardening and economics.