Aparna Sen Live

 It was the launch of a book about her. I only know her through the film 36 Chowringhee Lane, that she directed- it was produced by Shashi Kapoor (how that happened was a good story). I was very impressed at the time. The three major actors led by Jennifer Kapoor were excellent. I did find Chowringhee Lane recently, but not no. 36. Anyway, it was an engaging conversation with the author Suman Ghosh and another actor Anjan Dutt who tended to speak out of turn,, and a lot more than necessary. She is 80, but looked around 60.

Anyway, my respect for Tolly Club went up- after a debate earlier, and now this.. organised by their Library, it seems.

Debating- A Dying Art?

 I am not talking of the loud antics on television channels that pass off as debates. The well-prepared speeches for 3-5 minutes by good speakers, that we used to see or take part in. 

Some people speaking For the Motion, and some, against. One such tradition at the Tollygunge Club in Kolkata I was witness to, on Sunday. It was also well-attended, and had a good controversial topic- that the Institution of Marriage has lost its Relevance.

 Lively speakers, sometimes quoting research, and sometimes taking pot-shots at each other. There were lawyers, doctors and professors. A journalist too, and a couple of audience members chipped in. But the real star of the show was Kunal Sarkar, who moderated. Himself a doctor, he added a lot of witty comments and remarks, to keep the House engaged.

A pic or two from Tolly-

A view of the stage, above, and us relaxing before the event started.

Bibhuti Dash, and Anuradha Nargundkar, with a view of the Golf course behind.