KKN Gurugram Desk | The second day of The Hindu Lit for Life 2025 festival, held in Chennai, was a vibrant and intellectually stimulating affair, featuring a range of discussions that spanned politics, history, health, literature, and culture. As the festival continues to unfold, it draws prominent figures from various fields, offering their insights and sharing engaging conversations with the audience. This article dives deep into the notable sessions of Day 2, focusing on the impact of historical events, political discourse, integrative medicine, and the personal reflections of experts.
Mukund Padmanabhan on World War II: Britishers Created Dummy Fort on Marina Beach to Scare the Japanese
One of the most intriguing sessions of Day 2 featured Mukund Padmanabhan, author and former editor of The Hindu, who took the stage to discuss the 1942 Japanese non-invasion of Madras and its subsequent evacuation. Padmanabhan shared fascinating insights from his book, The Great Flap of 1942. According to Padmanabhan, the British colonial administration, in its bid to defend the strategic port city of Madras (now Chennai), created a dummy fort on Marina Beach to deter a potential Japanese invasion during World War II.
Padmanabhan explained that the British knew an invasion from the Japanese would be devastating for India, especially given Japan’s reach in the Southeast Asia region during the war. To create a visual deterrent, they constructed a false military installation on Marina Beach, a prominent location in Chennai. The ruse aimed to create the illusion of a fortified coastal defense, hoping to intimidate the Japanese Navy and discourage any potential military actions. This historical incident is a fascinating chapter in the city’s World War II history, shedding light on the lengths to which the British went to protect India’s key maritime regions.
Focus on Health: Integrative Medicine and the Mind-Body Connection
The theme of health was also central to discussions on Day 2 of the festival. In the session titled “The Promise of Integrative Medicine”, Dr. Isaac Mathai, Medical Director of SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre, and Dr. E.S. Krishnamoorthy, a behavioral neurologist and neuropsychiatrist, explored the importance of integrative medicine in today’s world. The two experts discussed how holistic approaches that combine traditional medicine, mental wellness, and lifestyle changes are gaining ground as an effective way of improving overall health.
Dr. Mathai emphasized that health is not just about what goes into the body but is closely linked to one’s emotional and mental state. He noted that immune system health is a fundamental aspect of disease prevention, highlighting the importance of diet, exercise, and a balanced lifestyle. In today’s high-stress world, where lifestyle disorders are on the rise, he pointed out that a holistic approach offers the potential to treat not only the symptoms of illnesses but also their root causes.
Dr. Krishnamoorthy echoed this sentiment, elaborating on the importance of mental health in maintaining overall well-being. He remarked, “The World Health Organization has long recognized that health is not just physical—it also encompasses mental and spiritual well-being.” He elaborated on how societal changes, like the increase in small living spaces and the rise of urban isolation, contribute to mental health challenges, particularly among younger populations. The conversation highlighted the need for holistic health systems that address both mind and body for a more sustainable and comprehensive approach to well-being.
Aruna Roy and T.M. Krishna on Politics and Identity
Another thought-provoking session titled “Personal is Political” saw the convergence of social activist Aruna Roy and renowned Carnatic musician T.M. Krishna. In a spirited discussion, they delved into the intersectionality of feminism, activism, and communalism in contemporary India. Both Roy and Krishna spoke about how personal identity and political engagement are intricately connected, particularly in a polarized society.
Krishna, known for his activism in the field of arts, emphasized the role of artists in bringing about societal change. He explained that art and music are not merely forms of entertainment but can be powerful tools for challenging the status quo. Roy, with her long history of social activism, mirrored this sentiment, focusing on the importance of self-reflection and understanding how personal experiences intersect with broader political movements. The conversation offered deep insights into how individuals can contribute to collective change, even in the face of systemic challenges.
“One Health”: Interconnectedness of Human, Animal, and Environmental Health
One of the standout sessions of Day 2 was “One Health: Guiding Our Future”, where Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Supriya Sahu IAS, and Ramya Kannan came together to discuss the emerging concept of One Health. This holistic approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health. Dr. Swaminathan, a leading expert in public health, spoke about how the global health crisis, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, underscored the need for an integrated approach to health that does not treat these elements as isolated issues.
Supriya Sahu, an Indian Administrative Service officer, discussed how the environmental aspects of health have become more pressing, particularly in the context of climate change and its implications on human well-being. The conversation delved into how diseases are no longer confined to human populations but often spill over from animals to humans due to changing environments. This session highlighted the need for comprehensive solutions that address health issues across species and ecosystems, a critical theme in public health and policymaking today.
Geography, Writing, and the Influence of Place on Literature
Another insightful session was “Geography and Destiny: How Places Impact Writing”, featuring author Dr. Abraham Varghese. Varghese, known for his evocative storytelling, explored how the places we call home shape our identities and, in turn, influence our writing. He talked about the emotional and cultural impact of places, saying that being away from one’s homeland often gives writers a unique perspective on the society they come from. The session touched on how geography influences not only the material world of fiction but also the psychology of characters and the moral dilemmas they face.
In a related discussion, Dr. Peter Frankopan, a prominent historian, examined how politics often influences the way history is written. He discussed the challenges historians face in presenting an unbiased account of events, particularly when political agendas often color historical narratives. Frankopan’s session was a call to examine history with a critical eye, recognizing how power structures shape the stories that are told about the past.
The Role of Legendary Restaurants in Shaping Communities
Ruth D’Souza Prabu, a noted food writer, led a fascinating conversation on the role of legendary restaurants in Indian society. She discussed how certain restaurants rise to iconic status, not just due to their reputation but because they become part of the cultural fabric of their communities. Prabu shared the story of MTR, a restaurant in Bangalore that started as a humble family business and grew to become an institution. She emphasized that great food is not just about fame; it’s about consistency, passion, and creating products that resonate with people across generations.
Her session shed light on how food plays an essential role in shaping a community’s identity, with certain dishes becoming synonymous with the city or region they come from. Prabu’s reflections highlighted the deeper cultural significance of food, illustrating how culinary traditions can build a sense of belonging and shared history.
Conclusion: A Day of Diverse Conversations at The Hindu Lit for Life 2025
The second day of The Hindu Lit for Life 2025 festival showcased a rich tapestry of ideas, discussions, and reflections. From Mukund Padmanabhan’s historical insights on World War II to the holistic health approaches discussed by leading medical experts, the day offered a deep dive into subjects that shape contemporary life. The conversations on the intersection of politics, identity, and activism were particularly powerful, urging attendees to reflect on their roles in a rapidly changing world. As the festival continues, it’s clear that it remains a platform for critical thought, cultural exchange, and intellectual engagement.
