KOCHI: ‘Otta Nirathil Maranjirunnavar’, a tome in Malayalam which includes writings by members of an all-woman Facebook page - Queens’ Lounge- on Saturday was launched by litterateur Benyamin at a well-attended function here. Addressing the gathering, Benyamin said, “The advent of social media has created opportunities for many talents to come forward. The platform is also used to make the world aware of the atrocities happening around us.”
He recalled how women from the past and present, including Anne Frank and Malala Yousafzai, withstood turmoil and stood up to the world. Benyamin threw light on the significance of writing and how it helps in shaping one’s individuality. “People who write are those who want to share their stories with the world. It is essential we listen to them,’’ he said.
Benyamin lauded the efforts undertaken by Queens’ Lounge members from across the world which had coalesced into the tome. He also underscored the key role played by philosophy and books in life. According to him, reading transports a person to a new world and helps one to overcome life’s struggles.
Besides, the world of letters makes one think and dream and those not endowed with this might well end up cursing their worldly existence.
Actor Rima Kallingal, who received the first copy from Benyamin, said it is a proud moment for her and she is looking forward to similar initiatives from Queens’ Lounge. She highlighted the importance of such a group since it provides a stage for sharing emotions and creates a feeling of togetherness.”I feel extremely happy and honoured to stand among these ‘queens’ and I did not hesitate even for a moment before making up my mind when the organisers of this function extended the invite,” she said.
Queens’ Lounge, which came into being last September, comprises nearly 750 members from across the world. A Facebook page ‘Pennidam’ was also started by the same team to showcase their writing talents. It was from this page the idea of ‘Otta Nirathil Maranjirunnavar’ took shape. From designing the cover to writing and editing the stories, every aspect was taken care of by members of Queens’ Lounge. The 81 stories included in the tome are based on women’s thoughts, dreams, reality and experiences presented with a philosophical touch.