This year’s festival boasts an impressive roster of over 120 speakers from more than 25 countries, including prominent figures such as:
- Javed Akhtar, renowned Indian screenwriter and lyricist
- Asako Yuzuki, esteemed Japanese author
- Palki Sharma Upadhyay, influential Indian journalist and voice of the Asian Century
- Anil Kumble, legendary cricketer
- Sanjay Patel, Indian-American animator, Pixar director, and Oscar nominee
- Rajdeep Sardesai, acclaimed Indian journalist
- Perumal Murugan, distinguished Indian novelist
Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership at Alliance University, emphasized the significance of the festival’s theme, stating, "The Asian Century reflects Asia’s resurgence as a dominant economic and cultural force globally. By hosting the festival in Bengaluru, a city leading this transformation, we aim to foster intellectual engagement and celebrate the vibrant cultural tapestry of the continent."
ALF 4.0 aligns with Alliance University’s mission to establish Bangalore as India’s intellectual capital and position the institution as a hub for arts, culture, and academic exchange.
The festival will kick off with insightful sessions focused on regional literature and translation, spotlighting the rich literary traditions of Kannada and Tamil. Attendees will also enjoy a captivating Chhau dance performance, rooted in the traditions of West Bengal, adding an authentic cultural dimension to the event. Additional interactive sessions, including Q&A discussions, author meet-and-greets, and book signings, will allow festival-goers to engage closely with literary icons.
Expanding its reach, ALF 4.0 will feature live-streamed sessions and curated digital content, ensuring accessibility to global audiences. This initiative reinforces Alliance University’s commitment to promoting intellectual and cultural dialogue across both physical and virtual spaces.
Throughout the festival, a variety of timely themes will be explored, such as:
- Asia’s economic rise
- The emergence of Asian athletes
- Migration, diaspora, and issues of belonging
- Environmental and demographic challenges
- The role of Asia in shaping global education, sports, and innovation
With ALF 4.0, Bangalore further cements its status as a dynamic cultural and intellectual hub, playing a pivotal role in ushering in what is destined to be "The Asian Century."
About Alliance University
Founded in 2010, Alliance University is South India’s first private institution, based in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is known for its commitment to lifelong learning and global citizenship. Alliance University offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, and houses the Alliance College of Engineering & Design and the Alliance School of Law.
The university’s mission is to provide a high-quality environment for teaching, research, and service, facilitating global collaboration to transform lives through innovation and excellence in higher education.
Last updated by a enewsx: