In an exciting cultural event set for April 10-12, 2026, Mumbai will play host to the 16th edition of the Almost Island Dialogues, a prestigious gathering that showcases the voices of international poets and writers. This three-day festival will take place at the G5A Warehouse, a vibrant venue that has become synonymous with artistic expression in the city.
The Almost Island Dialogues aim to bridge cultures and foster creative exchanges among poets from around the world. This year, the lineup features a diverse group of literary talents, including Don Mee Choi from South Korea and the United States, Najwan Darwish from Palestine, and Aleš Šteger from Slovenia. Indian poets like Vyomesh Shukla from Varanasi, Sampurna Chattarji from Mumbai, Mantra Mukim from Raipur and Oxford, and Sharmistha Mohanty from Mumbai will also take part in this enriching event.
Each poet brings their unique perspective and experiences, making this year’s dialogues a melting pot of diverse voices. The event is expected to create an atmosphere of collaboration and inspiration, highlighting the power of poetry to illuminate the human experience across different geographies.
The theme of this year’s gathering seems to echo the sentiments of many poets, as captured in the work of Najwan Darwish. His poem “Lightning Writes Poetry,” translated from Arabic, explores the elusive nature of creativity and inspiration. Darwish reflects on the paradox of lightning — a fleeting moment of brilliance that illuminates the darkness yet disappears almost instantly. This evocative imagery resonates with the aspirations of poets who often dream of achieving that same spark of genius in their own work.
Similarly, Aleš Šteger’s piece “Time Is” offers an intriguing perspective on existence, likening time to a migratory bird and humanity to the steadfastness of stone. Such works challenge readers to contemplate deeper meanings about life, time, and identity, themes that will undoubtedly be explored throughout the dialogues.
Additionally, Don Mee Choi’s poignant poem “Orphan Kim Seong-rye” recounts a haunting narrative filled with vivid imagery of loss and memory, bringing to light the impact of trauma and history. On the Indian front, Sampurna Chattarji’s “A Thousand Parents” reflects on the complexities of familial relationships and emotional connections, revealing the subtleties of human attachment. Sharmistha Mohanty’s work captures the tumultuous relationship between nature and humanity, a theme that resonates deeply in the context of climate change and ecological concerns.
The Almost Island Dialogues not only serve as a platform for poetic expression but also encourage discussions around contemporary issues, making it a significant event for literary enthusiasts. It promises to be a transformative experience for both participants and attendees, as they engage with the profound themes and diverse narratives presented by poets from various backgrounds.
As the countdown to the event begins, anticipation builds among poetry lovers, who eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in this celebration of words, culture, and creativity. The dialogues are set to be a unique experience, reinforcing the idea that poetry knows no borders and can connect hearts and minds across the globe.
