From Desh Prem to Rashtra Vaad
Talk
1.5 hrs
November 24, 2017 7:30 pm Friday
From Desh-Prem to Rashtra-vaad: Rise of the Assertive and Insecure Indian
Talk by Vipul Rikhi followed by songs of Kabir
How do we understand or relate to the current climate of aggressive 'nationalism', and are there different models for expressing and sharing a love of the country? This talk by Vipul Rikhi touches on aspects of insecurity and identity crisis which may lie at the root of streaks of assertion and aggression by which the 'nation' is sought to be defined. Drawing upon local wisdom traditions and figures such as Kabir and Tagore, the talk aims to offer a broader understanding of self as well as country, and how the two may be related.
The talk will be followed by some songs of Kabir, performed by Vipul Rikhi.
Organizer
Vipul Rikhi
Vipul Rikhi is a poet, novelist, translator and singer, and a co-creator of Ajab Shahar, a forthcoming digital archive that celebrates the oral traditions of Bhakti, Sufi and Baul music. His work with Kabir Project includes extensive writings and translations in the area of mystic poetry. In the course of these journeys he has developed a deep love for singing mystic poetry in the folk music traditions. In his performances, he likes to bring equal emphasis to the poetry and its resonances in our lives as to the sheer beauty and simplicity of the folk tunes. He is also the author of a novel and collections of poetry and short stories. www.vipulrikhi.wordpress.com