Giving that zing to the weighty and worthy
The Karachi Literature Festival and the Engro Excellence Awards prove that all that is cerebral is not boringand a well-conceptualised talk show demonstrates exactly what good journalism can do By Muniba Kamal
It was a rather thought provoking weekend in Karachi, the last one. Forget partying or attending a fashion week (there are at least three on the calendar in the next few months, God help us) this city became all about grey matter as opposed to the bling factor thanks to the Karachi Literature Festival that drew thousands to the Carlton Hotel. Vikram Seth impressed, Shobha De was adored, Hanif Kusheishi's brooding sensuality caused the thinking woman's collective heart to flutter, hearing Mirza Waheed speak inspired many to pick up The Collaborator, liberal democrats condemned the pro-army attitude of Anatol Lieven, but they clapped long and hard when he said “Failed states don't hold literature festivals.” Still others looked at the roster of events and wondered...............
