PILF: How Pune’s Premier Literary Event Is Redefining The City’s Cultural Scene | Sourced
The Pune International Literary Festival (PILF), launched in 2013 with its roots in promoting creativity, education and inclusivity, has become an eagerly anticipated event for Punekars each year. The festival has redefined Pune’s cultural landscape, connecting readers with their favourite authors and fostering young literary talent. Pune, often referred to as the Oxford of the East, attracts students from across the country, creating a significant market for an event that unites books with life experiences.
While speaking to The Free Press Journal, the founder and organiser of PILF, Manjiri Prabhu, shared her thoughts on what the festival has brought to Pune. She said, “From its inception, PILF aimed to put Pune on the global literary stage, and it succeeded. The festival has drawn international attention, hosting luminaries such as Jane Goodall, Cecelia Ahern, Anthony Horowitz and Narayana Murthy, alongside national icons like Shashi Tharoor, Sudha Murthy, Javed Akhtar, and Shobhaa De. PILF’s collaborations with embassies from France, Germany, Portugal, Austria and Switzerland further cement its global stature, infusing the event with international flair and creative diversity.”
Every festival of this nature adds to the personality of the host city. PILF stands out as a celebration of creativity in all its forms. Unlike many other festivals, it is the first-ever English multilingual literary festival, and it’s completely free and accessible, ensuring it remains an inclusive space for people from all walks of life.
Many aspiring authors have launched their careers here, connecting directly with readers and literary veterans. Workshops and discussions offer invaluable learning opportunities. Through specialised workshops and interactive sessions, young minds are inspired to explore their creative potential, with the festival even providing a platform for young authors to showcase their talent.
Over the years, PILF has hosted over 2,500 speakers, giving Punekars the privilege of interacting with legendary figures, gaining insights into their journeys, and witnessing history being made. As PILF continues to grow, it offers inspiration not just for Pune but for the world, proving that literature has the power to transform, connect and inspire.
