The dynamic start-up culture in the city has given rise to a cultural start-up. Shattering the stereotypes of an ideal poet, these youngsters have replaced shawls with torn jeans, mature audience with college-goers and young techies, experienced artists with newbies and the venue has changed from auditoriums to nightclubs.
Heralding a new chapter in the twin cities is Hyderabad Poetry Project which launched ‘Poetry Unbox’ over the weekend.
Holding the mike were teens and those in their 20s who recited their poems at a city pub. The subjects were close to their heart and some of the presented work seemed to be born out of recent events.
There was a poem on depression, a condition that millennials seem to be struggling with.
Two participating members took to stage to express their adulation for Chester Bennington, singer and songwriter of the rock band, and Linkin Park, who recently committed suicide. The youngest among the performers, a 17-year-old, too read out a poem based on her life experiences.
“We started this project as it was felt that the community needs to come together under one umbrella,” said 22-year-old Akshay Tiwari, who co-founded the Hyderabad Poetry Project along with Drishti Nagda. “We want to build momentum by organising the open mic events. Poetry is an art and there are many who write poems, but do not come out and share it with others. We want to provide a platform for these poets. Our initiative is also aimed at skill-building for those interested in this art.”
With an unconventional format, three genres of poetry, spoken word, beat poetry and recitation are part of the shows. With a line-up of events every weekend, the organisers want to infuse some native flavour by encouraging Telugu poetry too.
