Gulzar brings up ‘intolerance’ at Marathi literary meet

Gulzar said students should also be taught by English writers. He also highlighted the need for similar literary events for all Indian languages

Two months after poet Gulzar first spoke about ‘intolerant attitude’, he reiterated his dissatisfaction over the rising intolerance in the country on Saturday. “Even if the universe remains silent, writers will continue to express even if their tongues are cut,” he said,

NCP chief Sharad Pawar (third from left), lyricist Gulzar and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at the 89th annual Marathi literary meet at Pimpri-Chinchwad near Pune on Saturday. (HT photo)

Speaking at the inaugural session of 89th annual Marathi literary meet at Pimpri-Chinchwad, Gulzar said students should also be taught by English writers. He also highlighted the need for similar literary events for all Indian languages.

Literary meet president Sripal Sabnis, who had been in controversy a few days ago for his remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, continued his attack on Hindu outfits.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was not present when Sabnis began his speech. Fadnavis’s presence was a matter of speculation as BJP had strongly objected Sabnis’s earlier remarks and threatened to disrupt the literary meet if Sabnis did not tender an apology. The BJP had pulled down curtains after Sabnis regretted his remarks.

Fadnavis said India was and is tolerant and will continue to be so because of its fundamental ideology.

Former union minister Sharad Pawar underlined the need to change the procedure of electing president of literary meet.