Francophonie festival in Pune celebrates art and culture

Pune will host the Art de Vivre – Francophonie festival on March 23. This event celebrates art, literature, and cultural exchange. It will take place at Monalisa Kalagram in Koregaon Park from 11 am to 9 pm. The festival marks the 50th anniversary of Alliance Francaise Pune and highlights the city’s historical ties to French culture. Visitors can explore two augmented reality (AR) exhibitions. The first, called ‘La Fresque de la Francophonie,’ is created by Cécile Palusinski and Elsa Mroziewicz. This exhibition showcases 24 writers from places like Madagascar and the Caribbean. Malagasy author Johary Ravaloson will discuss his work, reflecting on his connection to French literature. Another installation, Uramado by Julie Stephen Chheng, invites people of all ages to play a digital hide-and-seek with Tanuki spirit animals. This interactive space focuses on themes of identity and diversity. Dancer Hrishikesh Pawar will lead a performance titled ‘Dancing Through the Francophone World.’ He describes the festival as a joyful gathering where he will invite the audience to learn some choreography. The performance will end with everyone joining in a gratitude circle. Music lovers can enjoy a performance by singer Shivangi Kale and guitarist Vinay Kaushal, blending jazz with French songs. Kale plans to sing upbeat tunes based on the theme of Pink Panther. Kathak dancer Shama Bhate will present “Kathak on French Waves,” inspired by the ocean and Jacques Cousteau. This performance will explore the connection between movement and rhythm. The festival will also include wine and cheese tasting, along with workshops on eco-friendly topics such as perfume-making and fabric recycling.