Editor

In the diverse landscape of Indian literature, Abhilash Fraizer emerges as a true polymath, donning the roles of an author, poet, novelist, journalist, translator, and advertising copywriter with finesse. Originating from the culturally rich Kerala, Abhilash is not just a craftsman of words but a storyteller, sculpting narratives that resonate across cultural boundaries.

Armed with a Post Graduate degree in English Language and Literature, Abhilash has etched his name onto the literary canvas, composing 14 books that traverse the realms of poetry, prose, and journalism. His works have found a global readership, as he contributes verses, stories, and articles to esteemed international and Indian journals.

A recent jewel in his literary crown is ‘Father, a collection of poems,’ earning global recognition through publication by Wipf & Stock Publishers, Oregon, USA. This anthology showcases Abhilash’s ability to dive into the human experience, capturing emotions and reflections with profound simplicity.

In the sphere of English literature, ‘The End of Wars,’ a novel, and ‘Everlasting Things are Incomplete,’ a collection of poems, stand as pillars of his creative expression. Meanwhile, in his mother tongue, Malayalam, Abhilash has gifted readers with gems like ‘Dalamarmaram’ (The Rustle of Leaves), ‘Paravakalude Vazhi’ (The Way of Birds), ‘Raamazhayude Theerathu’ (On the banks of Night Rain), ‘Sajalam’ (Aqueous), and ‘Prapancha gaatha’ (The Ballad of the Universe).

The accolades bestowed upon Abhilash Fraizer are not mere ornaments; they mirror the depth of his literary contributions. ‘Prapancha gaadha’ received the Kreatiff Silver Award for the second-best novel in 2020, an honor that adds to the list of his literary achievements.

Recognized for his excellence in the field, Abhilash was honored with the ‘Yuva Prathibha Award’ in 2014 by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) Media Commission. His poem ‘Between the Islands’ achieved global recognition, being voted and enlisted among the best 100 poems in a contest held by Poemhunter.com.

Beyond the written word, Abhilash Fraizer extends his creativity to the realm of scripts. He has crafted narratives for Sight and Sound Shows like ‘I Believe’ and ‘Ammamaram,’ staged in major venues in Kochi and witnessed by over 50,000 people. His talents also encompass television programs, where he has written scripts, and music, with lyrics for around 50 songs recorded for various albums.

Amidst this literary journey, Abhilash finds balance in family life. Residing in Ernakulam, Kerala, with his wife Sunitha and two sons, Ezek and Izan, he draws inspiration from the beauty and diversity of his surroundings.

As Abhilash Fraizer continues to weave words into intricate stories, he not only enriches the literary world but also leaves an enduring legacy, capturing the essence of human experience with every stroke of his pen.

In the vast realm of contemporary literature, Rochelle Potkar stands as a luminary, a writer whose multifaceted talent has woven an intricate tapestry of poetry, prose, and cinematic storytelling. Her journey is marked by accolades, global recognition, and a relentless passion for the written word.

A distinguished alumna of Iowa’s International Writing Program (2015), Potkar’s literary voyage extends across borders and genres. The Charles Wallace Writer’s fellowship at the University of Stirling (2017) further enriched her artistic repertoire, setting the stage for her emergence as a notable figure in the literary landscape.

Potkar’s literary prowess shines brightly in her acclaimed works. “Four Degrees of Separation” and “Paper Asylum,” the latter shortlisted for the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize 2020, showcase her ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions with grace and insight. The recognition of her craft is not confined to the written word; her poetry film “Skirt” found a platform on Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland, while her poetry readings grace Disney+ Hotstar/Shorts-English.

In the realm of poetry, Potkar has earned prestigious awards, including the 2018 Norton Girault Literary Prize UK for her poem “To Daraza.” Her poem “The Girl from Lal Bazaar” achieved the honor of being shortlisted at the Gregory O’Donoghue International Poetry Prize in 2018. Her verses, a delicate dance of language and emotion, have been widely anthologized, resonating in literary gatherings from India to the Gold Coast, Australia.

As a critic, Potkar’s insightful reviews have found homes in esteemed publications such as Wasafiri, Sahitya Akademi’s Indian Literature, Asian Cha, and Chandrabhaga. Her ability to dissect and appreciate the works of others showcases a deep engagement with the literary world beyond her own creations.

The global reach of Potkar’s writings is testament to their universal appeal. Translated into languages like Arabic, Hungarian, French, Spanish, Hindi, Marathi, and German, her words transcend linguistic boundaries, resonating with readers across diverse cultures.

The year 2021 witnessed the release of her short story collection, “Bombay Hangovers,” adding another dimension to her literary repertoire. Potkar also co-authored “The Coordinates of Us/ सर्व अंशांतून आपण,” a bilingual cross-translation of English/Marathi poetry, showcasing her commitment to linguistic diversity.

Potkar’s foray into screenwriting has not gone unnoticed. Her screenplay “A Brown Coat” secured a quarter-finalist position at the Atlanta Film Festival Screenwriting Competition in 2020. In 2021, she clinched victory in the Pocketwala-Cinestaan Web Series Idea Contest for ‘Anthology of Bombay Stories: slice-of-life.’

Beyond her creative pursuits, Potkar is a guiding force in academia. Her role as an industry expert on syllabi boards for English Literature at two top Mumbai universities speaks to her commitment to shaping the literary minds of the future. Invited twice as a creative-writing mentor to Iowa’s prestigious International Writing Programs (Summer Institute 2019 and Between the Lines 2022), Potkar extends her influence to nurture emerging talents.

Regularly conducting haiku/haibun/free verse workshops with the Himalayan Writing Retreat, Potkar shares her passion for poetry and the nuances of the craft with aspiring writers.

In the expansive world of literature, Rochelle Potkar stands not only as a prolific writer but also as a mentor, a critic, and a bridge between cultures through her bilingual works. Her journey, marked by an unyielding dedication to her craft and a commitment to fostering literary talent, continues to unfold as a compelling chapter in the global literary narrative. Visit Rochelle Potkar’s Website to explore her literary universe.

Welcome to the virtual marvel that is the Panorama International Literature Festival (PILF) 2024! Spanning 87 countries, PILF is a global celebration of literature’s boundless power. In the digital expanse of January 2024, esteemed writers and readers will convene from around the world, crafting connections and embracing diverse stories. PILF is more than an event; it’s a testament to the unifying spirit of words, proving that even in the virtual realm, literature creates bridges, fostering understanding, and kindling the flames of creativity. Join us for this extraordinary virtual odyssey, where cultures converge, and the shared love for literature knows no virtual boundaries.

In the vibrant landscape of PILF 2024, geographical distances fade into insignificance. From the heart of Greece to the corners of the world, this virtual festival transcends screens, inviting literary enthusiasts on a global journey. With 87 countries contributing to this digital mosaic, PILF promises an immersive experience where stories become pathways to understanding, empathy, and unity. Join us in January 2024 and let your literary adventure begin!

The Theme of PILF 2024

At the heart of the Panorama International Literature Festival (PILF) 2024 flickers the profound theme, “Agni: The Spark.” This theme encapsulates the essence of creation and destruction, echoing the dual nature of fire. In the digital expanse of our festival, “Agni: The Spark” becomes a guiding beacon, illuminating the path for writers, readers, and thinkers alike. It symbolises the transformative power of literature, akin to the ancient concept of Agni, representing not only physical fire but also the fire within us – the spark of passion, creativity, and change.

As we delve into this theme in January 2024, we invite you to explore the multifaceted aspects of Agni. It’s more than a flame; it’s the force that kindles creativity, sparks conversations, and ignites the spirit of innovation. “Agni: The Spark” serves as a reminder of our shared humanity, urging us to delve into the depths of literature to understand the world and ourselves better. Through this theme, PILF becomes a platform where ideas blaze, illuminating the digital realm with stories that inspire, inform, and challenge.

Guidelines

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your participation in PILF 2023 a seamless and enriching experience:

1. Registration

After completing the registration process, an email containing essential guidelines will be sent to you. Please review this carefully for a smooth participation experience.

2. Photographs and Biography

Kindly provide us with two high-resolution photographs (one landscape and another portrait).
Please attach a biography of not more than one page for an article featuring you in our web magazine.

 

3. Theme Contribution

Once you are featured through our social media pages, align your creative genius with the festival theme, “Agni: The Fire.” To get inspired, watch the theme video provided. https://youtu.be/WAtQFBnKs2I Your work should reflect the essence of this theme.

4. Video Presentation

Create a LANDSCAPE video presenting:

1. Introduction to yourself and your interpretation of the theme.
2. Showcase your literary work.
3. Conclude with a summary.

Send the video as a Google Drive attachment to wcifcentral@gmail.com. Please remember that we won’t accept files through WhatsApp, Messenger or other apps. Ensure the video maintains quality for effective editing.

5. Curated Sessions

Our dedicated team will evaluate all submissions to find delegates for curated online sessions to be conducted from 1-31 January 2024. This will be notified to the delegates who can choose dates convenient to them.

6. Global Visibility

All entries will be published on our official YouTube and Facebook pages. The content will be shared across various social media platforms, ensuring lasting visibility for you as a writer on the World Wide Web.

7. The Quill Compendium 2023

All delegates will receive a unique opportunity to feature themselves in our upcoming directory of significant writers worldwide, “The Quill Compendium 2023.” Your biographies will be showcased, and the book will be sent to prominent libraries, including that of the United Nations.

8. Professional Biographies

Our dedicated team will prepare professional biographies for all delegates, which will be published on our prestigious global virtual literary website, www.writersedition.com. We hope that this will help literary enthusiasts from across the world to know you and will also ensure search engine optimization.

9. Panorama International Literary Awards 2024

A prestigious jury of eminent literary figures will declare the Panorama International Literary Awards 2024. Official communication regarding the results will be sent to you.

10. Final Decision

The decision of the international jury is final. We appreciate your understanding, and no communication challenging the decision will be entertained.

If you have further queries, please write to wcifcentral@gmail.com.

IMPORTANT

To streamline our workflow and ensure efficient processing, please adhere closely to the provided guidelines. Please note that our team is currently managing multiple submissions, and, unfortunately, we may not be able to engage in separate communication if the submissions do not align with our specified criteria. Non-compliance with the guidelines could regrettably result in the rejection of your work during the festival. Your understanding and adherence to these guidelines are greatly appreciated.

Born in the picturesque city of Kalamata in 1967, Angeliki Kompoholi stands as a beacon of intellectual prowess and scholarly dedication. Her academic journey commenced at the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Athens, where she immersed herself in the rich tapestry of knowledge from 1986 to 1990.

The culmination of years of scholarly dedication led Angeliki to present her doctoral thesis at the University of Athens in October 2008, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey. Her doctoral work showcased not only her commitment to academia but also her prowess in ethnographic research—a dimension that would become a hallmark of her scholarly contributions.

The recognition for her ethnographic research work came in waves, with distinctions bestowed upon her by the prestigious Academy of Athens in the years 2002, 2006, and 2010. These accolades underscored the depth and significance of her contributions to the field, solidifying her position as a distinguished scholar in the academic landscape.

Angeliki Kompoholi’s intellectual footprint extends beyond the borders of her native Greece. A member of several scientific societies, she has not only enriched Greek scientific discourse but has also made her mark in international academic circles. Her studies, published in both Greek and foreign scientific journals, serve as a testament to the universality of her scholarly pursuits.

Participation in Greek and international conferences further attests to Angeliki’s commitment to fostering academic dialogue and contributing to the global intellectual tapestry. As a professor of ancient Greek literature and philosophy, she imparts her extensive knowledge to eager minds, bridging the gap between eras and cultures through the enduring legacy of literature.

In the realm of academia, Angeliki Kompoholi’s name resonates as a scholar, researcher, and educator whose passion for knowledge transcends boundaries. Her journey, marked by honors, distinctions, and a commitment to both Greek and global intellectual communities, continues to inspire the next generation of thinkers and scholars.

In the mosaic of Indian social activism, Meher Pestonji emerges as a formidable force—a social worker, freelance journalist, and writer whose journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of justice and a seamless blend of advocacy and artistry.

Since the 1970s, Pestonji has been at the forefront, championing the cause of the oppressed and underprivileged. Her early activism echoes in the campaign to reform rape laws, a pivotal moment in the history of women’s rights in India. The housing rights of slum dwellers, children’s rights, and anti-communalism campaigns became the battlefields where Pestonji fearlessly fought for a more equitable society.

In the aftermath of the Babri Masjid riots in 1992–93, Pestonji’s commitment to communal harmony soared. She became an integral part of a group of activists working tirelessly to restore peace after the devastating Mumbai riots, demonstrating the transformative power of collective action. Amid these challenging times, Pestonji found solace and purpose in creative writing, infusing her advocacy with the power of storytelling.

During the mid-1980s, Pestonji’s engagement with street children and her mobilization for filmmaker Anand Patwardhan’s campaign against slum destruction showcased her multifaceted approach to social issues. In the heart of the Mumbai riots, she collaborated with mohalla committees in Dharavi, embodying a hands-on commitment to community resilience.

Transitioning seamlessly from activism to journalism, Pestonji interviewed scientists, business people, and fellow social workers, bringing a diverse range of voices to the forefront. Her role as a bridge between different spheres of society exemplifies her commitment to holistic change.

In an interview with the Times of India, Pestonji labeled herself as an ‘accidental Parsi,’ a term that encapsulates her evolving relationship with her own community, especially post the 1992–93 Mumbai riots. However, this shift in perspective has not been without its share of critiques and challenges, as seen in responses from within the Parsi community.

Pestonji’s writing bears the imprints of her personal and journalistic experiences, intertwined with her deep connection to the segments of society she passionately engages with. Her storytelling prowess shines through in works like “Mixed Marriage and Other Stories,” “Pervez,” “Sadak Chhaap,” and the intriguingly titled “Piano for Sale” and “Feeding Crows.”

Meher Pestonji, with her unwavering commitment to social justice and the art of storytelling, stands as a beacon—a testament to the transformative power of words and actions in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate world.

In the quiet town of Thana, Tripolis, a mathematical mind found its way into the enchanting realm of poetry. Theodoros Dalmaris, born and bred in Thana, embarked on a journey that transcended numbers, delving into the profound world of words. His academic foundation was laid at the University of Athens, where the seeds of his poetic future were quietly sown.

For 15 years, Dalmaris served as the proprietor of a private tutoring school, molding young minds and nurturing the intellectual landscape. As the tides of life carried him into various entrepreneurial ventures, his passion for social and political discourse found an outlet in the editorial rooms of ‘ORIENTATION’ and ‘POLITICAL CRITERION,’ two monthly magazines where ideas flowed freely, and perspectives were challenged.

Beyond the roles of an educator and editor, Theodoros Dalmaris is a devoted family man. Married to Despena Rizoglou, he finds solace and inspiration in the warmth of familial bonds, with three children and six grandchildren adding rich layers to his life narrative.

Dalmaris, however, didn’t confine himself to the pragmatic pursuits of everyday life. In 2015, he unfurled a new chapter in his story, donning the hat of a poet. His verses echoed in the halls of National and International Poetry Competitions, where his eloquence garnered recognition in the form of 10 First Prizes, a testament to the lyrical prowess he wielded.

His published poetry collections stand as literary monuments, each a testament to the depth of his contemplations. ‘PROMETHEUS,’ a 343-page opus, lays bare his reflections on the human condition. ‘ODE TO FREEDOM TO GREECE AND TO THE ECUMEN,’ spanning 300 pages, not only traverses linguistic boundaries with its English translation but also finds a harmonious resonance in classical music. ‘WOMAN, THE FIRST BEING IN THE UNIVERSE AND THE FIRST SLAVE,’ a 375-page exploration, delves into themes of identity and emancipation. ‘ETHICAL CONTINUATION, SPACE-TIME, SISYFOS AND MEROPI,’ a 423-page journey, unfolds the intricacies of ethical philosophy.

The poetic journey of Theodoros Dalmaris continues with an upcoming collection, ‘PRAYER TO OUR INNER POTENTIAL GOD OF LIGHT,’ promising yet another immersive exploration of the human soul. Beyond poetry, he stretches his literary wings into prose with ‘HAPPINESS OR UNHAPPINESS TO BE GREEK,’ a 300-page narrative that probes the intricacies of identity and cultural belonging.

Theodoros Dalmaris, with his mathematical precision and poetic flair, crafts verses that resonate with the human experience. As his pen dances across the pages, it leaves an indelible mark on the tapestry of contemporary literature, inviting readers into the depths of thought and the expanse of emotion.

In the tapestry of literary brilliance, Dr. Adyasha Das emerges as a luminary, casting her eloquent voice across the landscapes of both Odia and English literature. As a distinguished Professor at the Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management, Bhubaneswar, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, she stands as a beacon among the vibrant voices of young writers in Odisha.

Adyasha is not merely a professor; she is a maestro of words, a poet and short-story writer whose creations resonate with insightful and colourful portrayals of life. Her literary prowess extends across three books of poems and a collection of short stories, where she explores diverse themes with a sensibility that is both reflective and sensuous.

A polyglot in the language of literature, Adyasha’s works have transcended linguistic boundaries, finding translation in Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Manipuri, French, and German. Her achievements bear witness to her dedication to the craft, participating in esteemed programs like the indo-german writer-in-residence initiative AKSHAR, organized by Sahitya Akademi, the Goethe Institute, and literaturhaeuser.net.

Adyasha’s academic contributions add another layer to her literary tapestry, with authorship of academic books showcasing her depth of knowledge. Her recognition extends beyond the borders of her homeland, earning her the Suryadatta National Award, Chausathi Yogini Samman, Odisha Pratibha Samman, and the honour of participating in cultural exchanges with Germany through the Goethe Institute.

A recipient of the Junior Fellowship in English Literature from the Ministry of Culture, Adyasha has delved into research on “Empowerment in the poetry of pre-independent women poets.” Her journey as a literary luminary has taken her to esteemed platforms such as Literaturhaus Frankfurt am Main, The House of World Cultures, Literaturhaus Berlin, Leipzig Literaturhaus, Indische Nacht im Mousonturm, Frankfurt, Uto Kulm, Zurich, and the Frankfurt Book Fair, leaving an indelible mark on the global literary landscape.

As we acknowledge the numerous awards bestowed upon her, including the Sahitya Akademi, Suryadatta National Award, and Chausathi Yogini Samman, we celebrate Dr. Adyasha Das—a literary virtuoso whose words transcend boundaries and paint a vivid portrait of the human experience.

Maria Retali, a name synonymous with artistic elegance, was born in the enchanting city of Nafplio. An artist who defies boundaries, she has masterfully blended the realms of painting and poetry to create a rich tapestry of expression.

In 2011, Maria unveiled her inaugural poetry collection titled “Sense and Passion Conflict.” This literary endeavor was not just confined to the Greek-speaking audience but extended its arms to embrace the English language as well. A testament to her versatility as an artist.

Her poetic journey took an impressive leap in 2014 when she was bestowed with the second prize in the UNESCO of Arts, Letters, and Sciences of Greece literary competition for her mesmerizing poem, “The Journey.” This recognition catapulted her into the spotlight, marking the beginning of her ascent in the literary world.

2015 witnessed Maria’s international debut as she graced the International Literature Conference in Pleven, Bulgaria. Her verses, steeped in emotion and insight, transcended language barriers, with some of her poems being beautifully translated into Bulgarian and published in a Literary Works Miscellany volume, exclusively crafted for the conference.

The year also brought another feather to her literary cap. She successfully proposed and witnessed the realization of a 420-page volume, a treasure trove of contemporary Greek poetry, where she proudly contributed eight of her own poems. This monumental project, executed by the Group for UNESCO TLEE, cemented her place as a notable voice in Greek poetry.

2017 marked the release of her second poetry book, “Libation to Love.” Like its predecessor, this collection was a bilingual masterpiece, adorned with Greek and English verses. It was also later translated into Bulgarian, ensuring that her lyrical musings reached a broader international audience.

Maria’s literary prowess extends far beyond the realms of her books. In 2017, she participated in the 1st Yakamochi Intellectual World Poetry Competition in Japan. This prestigious event, hosted by the Koshinokuni Literature Museum, is a gathering of accomplished poets from around the world, a testament to Maria’s remarkable contributions to poetry.

Beyond her literary endeavors, Maria Retali is a dedicated humanitarian. She’s been an active member of the World Philosophical Forum since its inception in 2010, earning accolades such as the Certificate of Achievement and the Certificate of the Citizen of the World of the 21st Century for her unwavering commitment to the organization’s principles and goals.

In her hometown, Nafplion, she’s a proud member of the Palamidis historical-progress promoting Association, and in Greece, she’s a member of the Association for UNESCO of Arts, Letters, and Sciences. Her reach extends to the islands, where she’s a member of the Association for UNESCO of Piraeus and Islands. Her involvement in the Scoubi Association of Pictorial Arts and Literature on the island of Andros underscores her deep connection with the arts.

Maria Retali is a shining light in international peace initiatives, having earned numerous awards for her tireless efforts. She serves as an Ambassadress for the HITMA Org in Kurdistan and the One Earth-One Family international Organization in Taiwan. Her commitment to culture and humanitarianism earned her the prestigious International Woman Inspiration Award in 2021, bestowed by the Writers Capital International Foundation.

As her impressive body of work continues to grow, including “Sense and Passion Conflict” and “Libation to Love,” Maria Retali stands as a true renaissance soul, painting the world with her words and touching hearts with her actions. Her artistry knows no bounds, and her humanitarian spirit knows no borders.