Baithak and Beyond in collaboration with Rubaroo organised an open mic - Humsaaz: Voices for Peace - on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Marshall’s Book Cafe, Aundh, Pune. The open mic was open to all languages and different forms of storytelling. ‘Humsaaz’ revolved around the theme of peace, diversity, and harmony amongst all. It was organised with the aim of promoting love and understanding between communities, foster goodwill, and create a space for togetherness.
The audience, ranging across a vast demographic, experienced poetry recitations, ghazal singing, and a silent reading session at the open mic. The performing poets’ presented their work in Marathi, Hindi, Urdu, and English. “The open mic went well beyond its prescribed time as there was a packed house with many poets eager to present their work on the selected themes. It was a successful session,” said Saad Ahmed, the host and co-founder of Baithak and Beyond.
The works presented, he added, were diverse and had a distinct voice of their own, all adding their notes to the cause of peace and love amongst the people of the country.
Mohammad Saif, a youth activist, has recently enrolled in a programme by Rubaroo. I took the initiative to organize the event. I want to take this activity in the slums of Pune to promote dialogue between communities.”
