Bombay was where West met East,
A veritable cultural feast.
Much progress we could see
Thanks to the diverse society.
A city of both trade and tide
From here merchants spread far and wide.
Many languages proliferated
Great literature was curated.
Mumbaikars often think aloud
Feel comfortable in a crowd.
For literature, they deeply care
They need a place to meet and share.
Many intellectuals who were bright
Got together and saw the light.
A concept in which they all believed
And Literature Live was conceived.
Now every flame has a sparker
And for Literature Live it's Anil Dharker.
The Fest is now in its 16th year.
For that, Anil deserves a cheer.
Anil Alas! Is now no more
But at this fest he abides for sure!
Anil was a man of many parts.
Master of sciences, as well as arts!
In an age of specialists it is strange
To find a person with such a range.
No matter how hard you scan
You won’t find such a Renaissance Man!
An expert in the field of salt
And a connoisseur of single malt.
In every art he excelled.
At NFDC he propelled
Indian film to critical acclaim.
Directors he promoted, then made their name.
“Gandhi” coproduction added to his fame.
He was an expert at the editorial game.
His greatest legacy is Literature Live!
We look to Amy to make it thrive.
And now the Godrej Industries Group
Is very much in the loop.
Creativity is the essential foundation
To fuel purposeful innovation.
And learning of every kind
Helps to build a curious mind.
We readily gave our support
Since we like the idea of nurturing thought.
Eminent authors will be there.
Profound insights they will share.
There will be fun and exhilaration
As well as thoughtful inspiration,
Good ideas from authors, we will hear
And collect books for the rest of the year.
In a polarised world some welcome sanity
From inclusive sessions celebrating humanity.
And Literature Live will inspire
All of us to strive ever higher!
