Boman Irani took center stage at a recent Army literature fest organized by the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) in Chandigarh, sharing insightful reflections on the role of the armed forces in both nation building and the storytelling world of cinema. Addressing a distinguished audience, he expressed his privilege to be part of such a revered gathering, stating, “We are proud of our Indian Army. Their valour contributes towards such a large reservoir of stories that can be told for the next 50 years.”
In his address, Irani recounted his personal journey, from the struggles of his childhood to his eventual breakthrough in Bollywood with films like “Munna Bhai M.B.B.S” and “3 Idiots.” He emphasized the importance of events like this literature festival, which he believes serve as vital platforms for creative expression and thought-provoking discourse. “There is also a shared appreciation for the literary arts, resonating with audiences across all ages,” he added, underscoring the significance of literature in connecting diverse groups.
The literary event, aptly named Abhivyakti-2024, commenced at the Khetarpal Officers’ Mess and Institute within the Headquarters Western Command, Chandimandir Military Station. Alongside Irani, key figures in attendance included Sunita Dwivedi, the President of AWWA; Shuchi Katiyar, the Regional President of AWWA; and Ranjana Malik, the wife of former Chief of Army Staff Gen V P Malik, who participated in the ceremonial lighting of the lamp to inaugurate the event.
Irani further elaborated on the festival’s offerings, describing it as a “dynamic blend of engaging panel discussions, captivating storytelling sessions, book readings, book launches, and live singing performances.” The opening ceremony, held in the Main Lawns, featured Irani’s poignant narration of his life’s inspiring journey, captivating the audience with his heartfelt anecdotes.
Among the various insights shared, Irani touched upon parenting, advising parents to focus on nurturing their children’s inner qualities rather than solely evaluating them through academic performance. “Don’t judge your kids with marks but with their inner qualities,” he encouraged, highlighting the importance of values over conventional measures of success.
The event not only served as a celebration of literary arts but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the contributions of the armed forces, reinforcing the bond between the military and the creative community.
