Kaur delved into themes of femininity and history.
The DESIblitz Literature Festival 2024 offered a thought-provoking line-up of events celebrating the power of language, identity, and heritage in British South Asian culture.
This year, audiences were treated to a diverse mix of sessions spotlighting Punjabi poetry, the challenges of mixed identity, and a heartfelt tribute to the iconic poet Shiv Kumar Batalvi.
Each event created a space to reflect on the complexities and richness of South Asian heritage through stories, poetry, and music.
By blending personal narratives with cultural insights, the speakers invited attendees to engage in meaningful discussions about belonging, cultural pride, and the legacies that shape us.
Together, these events underscored the festival’s ongoing mission to elevate voices that resonate deeply within British South Asian communities and beyond.
‘Both Not Half’ with Jassa Ahluwalia
Jassa Ahluwalia’s event, titled the same as his book Both Not Half, captivated the audience with a deep exploration of mixed identity and heritage.
The British actor and writer shared his experience of navigating life as both Punjabi and English, touching on his journey to reclaim his identity beyond the label of “half.”
Ahluwalia recounted moments of cultural challenge, from his fluent Punjabi sparking surprise to casting rejections that left him feeling “not the right kind of mixed-race.”
Through his anecdotes and reflections, he encouraged others to consider the limitations of cultural binaries.
His #BothNotHalf campaign serves as a rallying cry to rethink how mixed identities are perceived and celebrated in today’s world.
The Art of Punjabi Poetry
The festival’s poetic line-up featured renowned Punjabi poets Rupinder Kaur, Nikita Azad, and lyricist Gurpreet Saini, each bringing unique perspectives to the richness of Punjabi verse.
Kaur delved into themes of femininity and history, drawing on her experiences as a Birmingham-based poet and artist.
Saini, known for penning popular Punjabi song lyrics, shared his reflections on identity and nostalgia.
Azad added another layer, blending her academic background in gender studies with her poetry to address the body, medicine, and culture.
Their performances offered a vibrant tapestry of Punjabi storytelling, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary themes.
Remembering Shiv Kumar Batalvi
In a heartfelt tribute, Dr Harish Malhotra led an evening dedicated to the iconic Punjabi poet Shiv Kumar Batalvi, joined by performers and musicians who breathed life into his verses.
The tribute journeyed through Batalvi’s poignant poetry, touching on themes of love, longing, and loss.
Born in Gurdaspur and deeply influenced by the rural landscape, Batalvi became one of the most beloved voices in Punjabi literature.
His tragic romance Loona, which earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award at just 31, remains a powerful testament to his talent.
Through recitations and musical renditions, this tribute underscored Batalvi’s legacy, illuminating his role as a cultural icon who gave voice to Punjab’s soul.
As the DESIblitz Literature Festival drew to a close, the audience was left with a renewed appreciation for the power of language in shaping cultural identity.
The events, which honoured both contemporary voices and legendary figures, highlighted the impact of storytelling in preserving and evolving South Asian heritage.
Attendees departed with a deeper understanding of how poetry, identity, and historical narratives continue to inspire and resonate across generations.
This year’s festival underscored the resilience and creativity of British South Asian communities, providing a platform for stories that foster a sense of belonging and pride.
With each session, the DESIblitz Literature Festival reaffirmed its role as a vital cultural event, celebrating voices that bridge cultural divides and inspire unity through the arts.
To find out more about the festival, click here and check out #DESIblitzLitFest on social media to see highlights from the events.
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