KOCHI: Long back, before social networking and smart phones took over, there used to be joints where people met, talked and fought over an array of topics. At the local tea-shop, holding a glass of frothy strong chai, they discussed everything under the sun. Heated political arguments, carefree banter and philosophical debates- they created a throbbing social microcosm within the four walls. As years went by, such gatherings and interactions vanished completely from the scene. Straight Talk, a city-based discussion forum, tries to revive the culture of group conversations.
“The idea is to promote meaningful interaction where people come together and share their views on a particular subject. The thought evolved during our morning walk sessions where we used to discuss various subjects,” says Nandakumaran Nair, one of the founding members and the current president of the group.
As everyone lives in their own bubble and social interaction happens online, the members wanted to recreate something like the Viennese coffee culture. “The coffeehouses functioned as social hubs where people from various walks of life met and talked. We conduct two-hour discussions where everyone present will be allowed to speak. Somebody will introduce the topic and then the members can talk freely though straying too far from the topic is not entertained,” he explains.
Straight Talk has only 15 permanent members, but all are welcome and their meetings at Alliance de Francaise are usually attended by 30 to 35 speakers. “The 15 members take care of all the expenses and we never charge anything from the guests. We maintain the society and all we want is to provide an informal platform where people can meet and converse.” But having too many speakers is also not ideal, he adds, as it restricts each one’s time.
“The one who is presenting the talk can take up to 16 minutes while the rest will get five to six minutes to speak. Every time, there will be people who are not ready to talk. But after attending two or three sessions, they become active participants,” he said.
Alcoholism, thattukada, demonetisation, growing old, lottery and gambling, life after death, women in Indian society, elections- the subjects be diverse and interesting. “Most of our members are fifty plus, though there are a handful of youngsters as well. Our gatherings also help in bringing about positive behavioural changes. The participants learn how to behave in groups and how to respect others and their perspectives,” he adds. Those who want to join the group can contact Dr Nandakumaran Nair at 9447224849.