Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East was analysed through a historical and strategic lens by Lt General Raj Shukla in conversation with former minister for External Affairs M J Akbar.
Shukla said, ‘Wars do not have borders,’ emphasising deep-rooted conflicts, crusades and modern power struggles that continue to shape the region. The discussion covered the impact of war, shifting international relations and the Middle East’s political connections with global powers.
It was part of the second-day of the ongoing three-day ‘Bhopal Literature Festival’ at Bharat Bhawan in the city on Saturday. Former IPS officer and author of Madam Commissioner Meeran Chadha Borwankar spoke on ‘Policing, Thrills and Challenges.’
She also recounted the anecdote behind the book’s title, narrating a poignant episode from her tenure in Pune. ‘Two young women, having faced harassment, approached the police but were instead questioned about their late-night presence. Indignant yet resolute, they banged on the police desk, repeatedly calling out, ‘Madam Commissioner!’—a moment that left an indelible mark on me and ultimately inspired the title,’ she said.
India’s first female diplomat stationed in Islamabad and author of ‘An Indian Woman in Islamabad: 1997-2000, Ruchi Ghanashyam spoke on ‘A Diplomat’s Journey Through Geopolitical and Gender Challenges. ‘The future of women is what they make of it,’ she said.
Besides, over 20 sessions featuring more than 25 distinguished authors were held. Sessions on ‘Gurudutt, Cinema, and Literature’ and ‘The multi-faceted Kishore Kumar’ were also held. The second-day of the event ended with rocking performance of playback singer Pratibha Singh Baghel at Ravindra Convention Centre.
