This compelling OCLF session with author and columnist Rrashima Verma explored a powerful idea: history is shaped not only by battles and politics but by the emotions and choices of the people who lived through it. In conversation with literary agent and bestselling author Suhail Mathur, the discussion invited the audience to look beyond headlines and discover the human stories that influence the rise and fall of empires.Rrashima shared how her writing brings depth to historical figures by highlighting their ambitions, fears, relationships, and inner conflicts. She explained that empires are often shaped by personal motives and emotional turning points that rarely make it to official accounts. The session also touched upon her research process and the art of blending fact with narrative to create stories that feel authentic and emotionally resonant.Engaging, thought provoking, and rich with insight, this conversation encouraged listeners to revisit history with empathy and curiosity and to recognise the human hearts that shaped the world.#OCLF #RrashimaVerma #SuhailMathur #History #Books #Storytelling

What truly drives a person to commit a crime? Is it intent, pressure, trauma or the emotional wounds that stay hidden behind every decision?In this insightful session at the Orange City Literature Festival 2025, author and journalist Amrita Mukherjee speaks with Dr. Chanda Sinhababu to explore the human side of crime and justice.Drawing from real experiences and psychological perspectives, the conversation looks at how environment, fear, early emotional patterns and mental conditioning influence young minds. The session also reflects on how society, family and community support can change the direction of a vulnerable individual before wrongdoing becomes their only choice.Engaging and thought provoking, the discussion encourages viewers to look beyond headlines and understand the complex emotions behind crime.Stay till the end for the audience Q and A that adds depth to the theme.#OCLF2025 #OrangeCityLiteratureFestival #InsideACriminalMind #CrimeAndJustice #AmritaMukherjee #ChandaSinhababu #ReadomaniaPublishing

How do tradition, faith, and modern thought come together to shape a creative mind?In this insightful session from the Orange City Literature Festival 2025, poet, author, and visual artist Bhaskar Hande sits in conversation with Dr. Bhumika Agrawal to explore the deep cultural roots behind artistic expression.The discussion traces the evolution of language, the spiritual foundations of Marathi and Sanskrit literature, and how ancient texts like Dnyaneshwari and Amrutanubhav continue to inspire contemporary creativity. Bhaskar Hande also shares his personal artistic journey, from painting iconic Bollywood posters by hand to becoming an internationally recognised cultural voice.The session highlights how art forms such as painting, sculpture, fine arts, and dance reflect devotion, identity, and philosophical depth. It also offers a rare look at how tradition and modernity coexist within creative practice.A thoughtful and enriching conversation for anyone who values culture, language, and artistic expression.#OCLF2025 #OrangeCityLiteratureFestival #BhaskarHande #CreativeExpression #TraditionAndFaith #IndianArt #MarathiLiterature #SakalMediaGroup