Bengaluru, India — February 20, 2026
Bollywood actress Vidya Balan inaugurated Day 1 of the Alliance Literary Festival (ALF) 2026, the fifth edition of the HerStory series, at Alliance University’s Central Campus in Bengaluru. The festival, themed around women’s empowerment and creative excellence, drew thousands of students, artists, and scholars.
The day began with a vibrant all-women Chendamelam procession, celebrating collective strength and womanhood. Pro Chancellor Abhay G. Chebbi addressed the audience, highlighting Alliance University’s vision for cultural and academic leadership in Bengaluru.
Vidya Balan engaged in a candid conversation with Shreya Sanjeev, sharing insights from her journey in the film industry, emphasizing resilience, authenticity, and creative courage. Cultural performances included a dance-drama by a transgender troupe led by Kalki Subramanian and a Bharatanatyam recital by veteran danseuse Shobana, along with international acts from Nepal, Russia, Germany, and Brazil.
Panel discussions covered topics ranging from media and mythology to sports and institution-building. The festival also hosted the Inter-City Intangible Culture Cooperation Network Annual Conference 2026, featuring mayors, scholars, and artists from over ten countries.
ALF 2026 continues through February 21 at Alliance University, promising more discussions, performances, and cultural showcases
