A three-day workshop for aspiring writers titled ‘Samathuvam Aridhal‘ was conducted last week by Pa Ranjith’s Neelam Cultural Center in Tindivanam, Viluppuram district.
The workshop saw various writers from across Tamil Nadu and other states touching upon topics like psychology, art and literature in Tamil Nadu, caste in art and literature, eradicating caste etc.
Writers like Aadhavan Dheetchanya, A Marx, Azhagiya Periyavan, AB Rajasekaran, Yazhini Aadhi, Pralayan, Sukirtharani, V Geetha and Bama held lectures on the subjects at hand.
Speaking at the event, director Pa Ranjith said, “It is important for writers to have a sense of social responsibility. Books on discrimination, politics and life history will help us question everything. I was here as a student and it was helpful. We will organise similar events and workshops on art and literature.”
Workshop aside, the event also featured street plays staged by theatre groups on different themes.
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Director Pa Ranjith had also recently launched a library for aspiring filmmakers. The library, named Koogai Thiraipada Iyakkam, has books on Marxism, feminism, literature and others. There are tomes on world cinema, dramatizing scripts, writing a screenplay, short stories and novellas. It was created to birth a movement,” said Kavin Antony who manages the space, “Every aspiring director has to be aware of the current socio-political happenings, and must be armed with the knowledge of art and literature. That way, the library is a place for discussion. We have ordered a wide range of books, are also planning to place projectors and screen films in tune with current events. Around 10 to 15 patrons visit us on a day; thus far only registered readers can access the library but steps are being taken to open it up to everyone. We also plan to host reading sessions.”
The library is currently open to members of Neelam Cultural Centre only.