The fourth edition of Alliance Literary Festival, celebrating Asian art and culture, is being organized by Alliance University, Bengaluru
Spanning from February 13–15, the event is hosting more than 120 speakers, including names such as Mani Shankar Aiyar, Javed Akhtar and Asako Yuzuki.
BENGALURU | February 14, 2025: The second day of the Alliance Literary Festival 4.0 (ALF 4.0) saw an electrifying session where legendary cricketer Anil Kumble and celebrated Olympian Dr. Anju Bobby George encouraged students to pursue sports with passion and perseverance. The duo shared personal stories of grit and determination, captivating the audience with their insights on the parallels between sports and life.
The fourth edition of the annual event is being held from February 13 to February 15, 2025, around the theme of The Asian Century. More than 120 speakers, including voices from over 25 countries, are attending to engage in meaningful conversations about Asia’s profound impact on global culture, politics, economy, and art.
“Failure is part of the journey,” said Anil Kumble, Former Indian Cricketer, Coach, and Commentator, “What matters is how you learn from it and come back stronger. Preparation, focus, and resilience help you overcome challenges, whether on the field or in life. When you prepare thoroughly, you enter the game with confidence. It’s like an exam; if you’ve studied well, you know how to tackle any question that comes your way. The same principle applies to cricket and life. Visualization, strategic thinking, and consistent effort lay the foundation for success. Don’t let the fear of failure stop you, instead, embrace the challenges, love the pressure, and give your best every single day.”
Addressing the audience, Padma Shri Dr. Anju Bobby George, Indian Athlete, and Vice-President, Athletics Federation of India, echoed Kumble’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system. “A mentor can make a world of difference. My husband played multiple roles in my journey as a coach, mentor, and motivator, helping me believe I could achieve more than I imagined. Believe in your abilities, dream big, and work hard to realize those dreams. There were moments when injuries threatened to end my career, but I chose to persist. I wanted to prove that resilience and dedication can turn setbacks into triumphs. It’s essential to have a vision and to stay committed to that vision, regardless of the obstacles you encounter along the way.”
Both athletes highlighted the significance of balancing physical fitness with intellectual growth. “Sports and literature both shape society in profound ways,” said Dr. Anju. “Physical well-being and a sharp mind together can create individuals ready to face any challenge. When you engage with literature, you open your mind to new perspectives and ideas. Combine that with the discipline of sports, and you cultivate a holistic approach to life. Our youth must understand that strength of body and strength of mind go hand in hand in building a progressive, resilient society.”
Participants at the ongoing event include prominent names such as Javed Akhtar, celebrated Indian screenwriter and lyricist; Rajdeep Sardesai, renowned Indian journalist; Arun Yogiraj, acclaimed Indian sculptor; Prayaag Akbar, author of Leila; Asako Yuzuki, renowned Japanese novelist; and Urvashi Butalia, distinguished Indian author.
The festival is exploring contemporary themes such as Asia’s economic ascendancy, the rise of Asian athletes, the intersection of migration, diaspora, and belonging, as well as environmental and demographic challenges. Sessions will also examine Asia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of education, sports, and innovation on the global stage.
About Alliance University:
Established in 2010, Alliance University is South India’s first private institution, located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The university fosters a community of lifelong learners and global citizens. Since its inception, Alliance University has expanded its offerings, establishing the Alliance College of Engineering & Design and the Alliance School of Law in 2012. The institution emphasizes experiential learning, renowned faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Alliance 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. Its motto, “A World of Opportunities,” reflects a commitment to empowering individuals academically and personally.