Bengaluru, 03 April 2023: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru campus to host the fourth edition of Manipal International Literature and Art Platform (m.i.l.a.p), which is scheduled from 6 April to 8 April 2023, at the MAHE Bengaluru campus, Yelahanka. m.i.l.a.p is an annual festival inspired by the long-standing efforts of the MAHE towards appreciation of literature, art, and culture. 

After three successful editions at MAHE, the coveted Manipal International Literature and Arts Platform (m.i.l.a.p.) has now reached the city of Bengaluru.  m.i.l.a.p. 2023 – “In Conversation with Bengaluru: Spaces, Intersections, Transitions, and Imaginaries” (SITI) brings together a multitude of voices ranging from educators, poets, and critics to activists, filmmakers, and theatre personalities. m.i.l.a.p. aims to provide a non-commercial space for writers, artists, literary critics, and students to share ideas, connect and initiate dialogue.

Prof. Ganesh. N Devy, a renowned literary critic, scholar, and recipient of the Padma Shri Award, will deliver the keynote address. The festival includes a series of Panel discussions, Masterclasses, Workshops, Film screenings, Competitions, and Performances. Masterclasses held across 3 days include Bengaluru in the Cultural Imaginary of Kannada by Prof. Rajendra Chenni, Ecologically Responsible Bengalurean: An Oxymoron by Sharachchandra Lele; and Urban Life of Caste by Janaki Nair. Additionally, the festival will play host to engaging panel discussions by scholars, Filmmakers and writers like Girish Kasaravalli, H S Shivprakash, Prithvi Konanur, Banu Mushtaq, and Deepa Bhashthi amongst others. The first two days of the festival also include Katha Kammata - Short Fiction Workshop by Vasudendra and My Body Is the City - A Theatre Workshop to Explore Body, Expression, Self, and Stories by Nisha Abdulla, Debosmita Dam. Each of the days culminates in performances like Desdemonda Rupakam by Nalanda Arts Studio, The Caretaker by Nagna Theatre and Padmavati Kalaga, Taalamaddale by Yaksha Durga Mahila Kalaa Balaga.

Inviting the connoisseurs of art and literature to the event, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE remarks, “As an institution of eminence, we are committed to nurturing intellectual and creative endeavors. m.i.l.a.p is a unique event where you will witness the perfect amalgamation of art, literature, and culture of the land. It promises to be an enriching experience for those who attend”.

Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, the Pro Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Bengaluru campus says, “This is the first time a Private University is hosting a non-commercial literature and art festival in Bengaluru. The festival celebrates literary, performance, and visual arts. We welcome the local community, readers, and art enthusiasts across the city to join us. As a nascent campus, we want to create a culturally vibrant atmosphere in this part of the town and what better way to start other than striking up a conversation with Namma Bengaluru.”