In recent years, a new trend has been quietly gaining momentum in the literary world — writers’ retreats. Having experienced one such retreat at the Te Aroha in Dhanachuli, Kumaon, what is striking is that these intimate gatherings offer a unique and immersive experience for both creators and literature enthusiasts, presenting an intriguing alternative to traditional literary festivals.
Te Aroha Writing Retreat hosted by Asha and Sumant Batra, who have been organising the Kumaon Lit Fest for a decade now, focused on the depiction of women in mythology, saw award-winning and bestselling writers including Anuja Chandramouli, Asha Prabhat, H Hari Kumar, Koral Dasgupta, Utkarsh Patel and Vani Tripathi Tikoo share interesting insights into their research and writing process in the 3 to 4, one hour long sessions through the day, weaved around the core topic of ‘Women Power in Indian Epics: Revisiting the Hidden Voices’.
The Batras say, “There comes a point when the art of writing simply cannot flourish in the middle of an urban chaos. Especially, if you are waiting to get your hands on completing that book you started but never finished, or the connecting pieces of the memoir that you have written halfway aren’t hitting the spot. An urge to get away for some days begins to surface.” Their literary retreats in Dhanachuli and Goa are a way to provide such a space.
Another 10-day retreat curated by author and editor Sathya Saran for the Jindal Foundation called Unfestival has been organising such a getaway in Himachal Pradesh, for the last 4 years. Saran shares that her retreat is about 10 writers from 10 different streams of art who come together to cross-pollinate each other’s work. “The idea is to learn from each other without judging or criticising the process.” Sathya further shares that these retreats have resulted in a book and a series of stories getting published in some leading newspapers and magazines in India.
The Write Scene Writers’ Retreat by Deeba Salim, Himalayan Writers Retreat, and A Writing Retreat by Karuna Ezara are a few others that have seen similar focus group writing opportunities for writers.
As writers and readers seek more meaningful and personal connections, these retreats are emerging as a refreshing way to foster a deeper appreciation for literature and the creative process.
This trend appears to therefore further expand and grow for the reasons below:
- The Allure of Retreats
These retreats provide a departure from the bustling atmosphere of literary festivals, offering a more serene and focused environment providing an opportunity to immerse in a tranquil setting, away from the distractions of everyday life. It fosters a sense of community, encouraging open discussions, collaborative ideas, and the forging of genuine connections.
- Workshops and Masterclasses
Unlike the format of literary festivals, where authors often have limited time for engagement, retreats prioritise in-depth learning experiences. Workshops and masterclasses led by accomplished writers allow participants to hone their craft, explore new genres, and receive personalised feedback thereby allowing aspiring authors to refine their skills and receive mentorship.
- Connection with Nature
Most writers’ retreats are hosted in picturesque locations surrounded by nature, providing a serene backdrop that stimulates creativity. The tranquillity of these settings enhances the retreat experience, allowing participants to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with their own thoughts. Nature walks, outdoor writing sessions, and quiet contemplation contribute to a holistic and rejuvenating experience, fostering inspiration and introspection.
- Building Authentic Relationships
Those attending often form lasting relationships with both peers and mentors, creating a supportive network within the literary community. Unlike the sometimes overwhelming nature of literary festivals, where interactions can be brief and superficial, retreats encourage meaningful exchanges that extend beyond the duration of the event.
- Tailored Experiences
One of the notable advantages of retreats is their ability to cater to specific interests and needs. Some retreats focus on particular genres, themes, or writing styles, allowing participants to tailor their experience based on personal preferences. This specialised approach ensures that attendees receive a curated and relevant program, making the retreat more valuable and impactful for both writers and readers.
- Cost-effective and Inclusive
Writers’ retreats often offer a more cost-effective alternative to literary festivals. The inclusive nature of these gatherings, with accommodations and meals typically included in the package, makes them accessible to a broader audience. This affordability factor, combined with the intimate and personalised experience, makes retreats an attractive option for those seeking to engage with the literary world without breaking the bank.
As the literary landscape evolves, writers’ retreats are carving out a niche as a compelling alternative. The intimate and immersive nature of these gatherings provides a platform for meaningful connections, in-depth learning, and a renewed appreciation for literature. Whether you are an aspiring writer looking for mentorship or an established one seeking a more personal literary experience, these retreats offer a captivating escape into the world of words and creativity.
Lipika Bhushan is the founder of MarketMyBook, a leading publicity and digital marketing agency. She is also the founder of The Indic Pen, a premium speaking platform on Indic ideas and has her roots in Uniyal Gaon, Uttarakhand. She tweets @LipikaB. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.
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