Ahmedabad: Former IAS officer Manoj Aggarwal has been appointed as the chief mentor of the Ahmedabad International Literature Festival (AILF). Aggarwal steps into the role following the passing of retired bureaucrat S K Nanda in July last year, who had served as a senior adviser and played an active role in shaping the festival’s intellectual and cultural dialogue.
Continuing a Legacy of Civil Service Engagement in Literature
S K Nanda, known for his deep involvement in public affairs and cultural discourse, was a regular participant at the festival and had helped guide its growth as a senior adviser. Mr Aggarwal, who retired in October 2023 as the Additional Chief Secretary (Health) in the Gujarat government, will now bring his experience and vision to the festival’s leadership.
10th Edition of AILF to Celebrate ‘Literature and Cinema’
The upcoming 10th edition of the Ahmedabad International Literature Festival is scheduled to take place on October 11 and 12, with a theme centered on “Literature and Cinema”. The event is expected to attract a diverse gathering of authors, filmmakers, theatre personalities, and literary scholars.
Notable Attendees Expected
Among the prominent attendees will be Navneet Kumar Sehgal, Chairman of Prasar Bharati, who is expected to participate in discussions and events during the two-day festival. His presence further underlines the festival’s blend of public service, media, and cultural narratives.
AILF: A Decade of Celebrating Literature and Ideas
Since its inception, AILF has grown to become a significant cultural event in Gujarat, offering a platform for dialogue across disciplines. With Manoj Aggarwal’s appointment, the festival continues its tradition of drawing on the wisdom and experience of senior civil servants to enrich its vision.
