THE ASIATIC SOCIETY OF MUMBAI 
The Literary Club of the Asiatic Society of Mumbai
presents Neeta Kolhatkar’s “The Feared”
on Monday 28th April 2025 at 5 p.m.

The Literary Club of the Asiatic Society of Mumbai is pleased to invite you to a presentation of Neeta Kolhatkar’s “The Feared” by the author on Monday 28th April 2025 at 5 pm in the Durbar Hall.
 
Neeta Kolhatkar will read excerpts from her book which is a meticulous compilation of interviews conducted by her with 11 political prisoners, and, in some cases, their loved ones. The session will be moderated by Mr. Kumar Ketkar.
 
Many interviewees testified that “The first night in jail is reputed to be the hardest. After that, you learn how to survive, though many prisoners carry lifelong scars.”
 
In the course of long conversations, sometimes over multiple meetings, Ms Kolhatkar was the recipient of personal anecdotes from the time her interviewees were incarcerated, bringing into focus the human face of prison inmates. She has also detailed the wretched conditions relating to space, hygiene, medical attention and food that they experienced and the deterioration of conditions during Covid-19.

Apart from being an urgent call to action for prison reforms, “The Feared” is also an account of hope and strength, narrating unique stories of survival and solidarity, and the unexpected bonds and relationships formed in prison.

Neeta Kolhatkar is an independent journalist. She has 35 years of experience being in the midst of news. She has worked in broadcast, print and online media. She has been a Life member of the Asiatic Society since 2013.
 
Kumar Ketkar is a renowned journalist and a former Member of Parliament.He has worked with reputed media like The Economic Times, The Observer and Maharashtra Times, he was Editor in Chief of the Loksatta and Dainik Divya. He was also a member of the Rajya Sabha for a six-year term.
 
This promises to be a captivating programme, do join us for this discussion.

Tea will be served at 4.30 pm.

- Prof. Mangala Sirdeshpande, Hon. Secretary Asiatic Society of Mumbai
- Meenal Kshirsagar, Vice President of the Society & Chairperson - ASM LitClub