Reading books has become a less popular activity these days whereas it was highly valued in earlier days. In any case, reading classical literature is always a great way to understand the ways of life and also develop a stronger personality. One such amazing author who has influenced generations of readers is Jane Austen. Her works not only changed how female protagonists are showcased but also the way storytelling reflected various conditions of United Kingdom of Regency era.
In order to appreciate Jane Austen’s works, a meet was organised to discuss Food and Fashion in the author’s books at Hotel Purple Leaf, Secunderabad recently. Initiated by Kamlesh Rajesham, a lawyer by profession and an author and reader by passion, the main aim in setting up Jane Austen club in Telangana is to bring back the elegance in people’s lives. This is their third meet up which usually involves the members to discuss actively about Jane Austen and the multi-hued nature of her books.
“Life has become quite fast paced and hurried these days. We are missing elegance in our actions and speech. Reading books slows down the tension around and makes the world a better place to live in. Anybody who is passionate about Jane Austen’s books is welcome to join our club and relish the amazing piece of literature through sharing of thoughts,” she shares.
This exquisite event was effortlessly festooned with Jane Austen’s quotes, pictures and of course sumptuous food ranging from cheesecakes to English truffle. Shashidhar, the President of Secunderabad Club graced the event and appreciated this unique initiative. He emphasised on the fact that economic conditions have a great impact on food and fashion in any society.
The members spoke in-depth about the importance of food in Jane Austen’s books which was well researched. The way food communicates about the social status of a society and various influences of food on Great Britain was amazingly highlighted. Interestingly, a special mention was made on the influence of Indian system of Ayurveda consisting of Vata , Pitta and Kapha elements on British eating habits of Regency era.
Fashion, on the other hand was another subject of the evening which dug deeper into the complex nature of women’s attire those days and how it influenced their lifestyle. An entirely new perspective of Jane Austen’s books was brought into picture at this sublime ambience where the audience even dressed up with hats, corsets and lovely attires.
The rainy evening transported one to the old Britain – thanks to this much needed event for all those book lovers in twin cities!
