The UK’s premier book festival celebrating British South Asian literature has unveiled its lineup for the 2024 edition.
Now in its eighth year, the DESIblitz Literature Festival 2024 will take place in Birmingham from October 19 to November 2, featuring some of the most prominent names in British South Asian writing across genres such as fiction, poetry, storytelling, music, film, TV, and publishing, alongside emerging talents.
Highlighting the rich diversity and creativity of British South Asian literature today, the festival will offer a variety of themed author events, including crime fiction, children’s literature, historical fiction, poetry readings, and memoir discussions. Additionally, attendees can engage in conversations about diversity in British publishing and enjoy musical performances ranging from Bangla to Punjabi folk.
The festival also aims to promote writing, storytelling, and cultural exchange from South Asia in schools across the UK through the DESIblitz Truck Art Bus. This vibrant vehicle, designed and painted by renowned truck artist Haider Ali from Pakistan, has already visited twenty schools and will feature a storytelling program showcasing a variety of South Asian cultures at this year’s festival.
Filmmaker and actor Jassa Ahluwalia will present his new book ‘Both Not Half’ at the festival, offering a profound discussion on mixed identity and his personal journey of self-discovery. Ahead of the event, he shared insights about his book, stating, “‘Both Not Half’ is more than just a memoir; it's a call to action. It advocates for belonging in a divided world and resonates with anyone searching for home and community.
“My Punjabi heritage deeply influences my work, but my artistic sensibility was shaped by my mum. From a young age, I learned to respect art and embrace my creative impulses. The arts are crucial in helping us understand our identities, and my book encourages readers to ponder the question, ‘Who am I?’ People of mixed heritage represent an incredibly diverse demographic, yet their experiences are often misunderstood due to a lack of representation. When certain voices are excluded from the narrative, it leads to their marginalisation in society. The solution lies in representation!
“A significant part of this book involves confronting sensitive truths. Ultimately, ‘Both Not Half’ taught me that social hierarchies, including racial hierarchies, can be challenged and dismantled. We are continually evolving, both as individuals and as societies. I aim to invite readers into these conversations and encourage them to ask their own questions.”
Festival Director Indi Deol added, “At the 2024 DESIblitz Literature Festival, we are dedicated to inspiring and uniting through the vibrant tapestry of storytelling. Our festival embraces diversity in every sense. We champion new and emerging voices, amplifying their stories and perspectives to reflect the richness of various cultures.
“I wanted to create a transformative experience that inspires, enlightens, and connects people by introducing new talent and facilitating thought-provoking discussions, hands-on workshops, and captivating performances. We believe in nurturing talent and providing a platform for aspiring writers to shine, using the power of words to ignite inspiration and foster lasting connections and opportunities.”
