Jaipur Literature Festival Explores Justice and the Digital Future

The fourth day of the Jaipur Literature Festival, presented by Vedanta, focused on significant themes including geopolitics, justice, and the future of the internet. The event brought together notable figures from literature, politics, law, and technology, fostering discussions that reflect on the intertwined narratives shaping contemporary society.

On this day, a much-anticipated session featuring comedian and actor Vir Das captivated audiences. Das delivered a poignant conversation on grief, describing it as an inability to breathe fully. He shared a personal memory from the night he won an Emmy, reflecting on his journey from working as a dishwasher in Chicago to receiving one of the highest accolades in entertainment. His insights resonated deeply, illustrating how loss can transform the body and spirit.

Renowned novelist Richard Flanagan engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue with journalist Tim Adams. They examined the moral urgency of literature in a world marked by ecological crises, political upheaval, and contested histories. Flanagan emphasized the writer’s duty to challenge complacency through storytelling, linking personal narratives with global events. He noted that memory is not merely an act of testimony but an act of creation.

A critical discussion titled Ideas of Justice featured Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, former Chief Justice of India, conversing with journalist Vir Sanghvi. Justice Chandrachud addressed constitutional morality and the evolving nature of justice in a diverse democratic society. Drawing from his book Why the Constitution Matters, he articulated that justice must be rooted in transparency, fairness, and accountability. He poignantly described the Constitution as the “common stone” holding society together.

The festival also spotlighted Europe’s political landscape in A Continent in Crisis: Russia, Ukraine and the European Story. Former Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski joined Navtej Sarna for a detailed analysis of Ukraine’s war, Russia’s geopolitical ambitions, and the implications for European unity and global security.

Another highlight of the day was the session This Is For Everyone, presented by HPCL–Mittal Energy Limited. Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, discussed the importance of digital rights and the urgent need to protect the internet as a public good. His insights underscored the role of decentralization in ensuring that the web remains accessible to all.

Wrapping up the day’s events was The Murder Dialogue, featuring filmmaker and actor Anirban Bhattacharyya and writer Rudraneil Sengupta, in conversation with Amrita Mahale. They explored the complexities of crime fiction and cinematic storytelling. Bhattacharyya discussed his book Swipe Right to Kill, which follows a young woman who manipulates dating apps before committing murder, while Sengupta presented his debut novel The Beast Within, inspired by his experiences with the Delhi Police and centered on the life of an underage domestic worker.

As Day 4 concluded, anticipation builds for the festival’s final day, which promises further engaging discussions on topics including poetry, graphic novels, and mythological narratives. Notable sessions will feature Alice Oswald in conversation with Jeet Thayil and Anand Neelakantan discussing The Legend of Kumarikandam. The Jaipur Literature Festival continues to serve as a vibrant platform for dialogue and reflection on the issues that define our time.