Fatima Bhutto @ Kovalam Literary Festival

The famed Pakistani author Fatima Bhutto was the star attraction of this year's Kovalam Literary Festival. It was her first visit to the place where another renowned Asian author Mr.Shashi Tharoor is the elected MP of Thiruvananthapuram - the capital of Kerala. This ancient city was recently in the news due to the rich haul of temple treasure. Ms.Fatima Bhutto's itinerary included a visit to the ramparts of this temple (does she plans to write an adventure/mystery novel? ) and the near by sufi mosque. She also took time off to relax at the famed Kovalam beach.

At the press conference, Fatima refuted the stereotype that her nation is a failed state. She said her nation is rich in natural resources, but also added that successive politicians have let them down. Regarding the events in West Asia (known as Arab spring) she said the whole Islamic world is going through a transitional period, similar to the 18th & 19th century Europe. About her on-line presence, Fatima said she hates social networking sites like face-book due to lack of privacy. ( I can't agree with you more! After all, why should one parade your friends & well-wishers like a gizmo or gadget? ) Fatima denied that she has political ambitions but also added she's proud of the great sacrifices of her family. 'I'd rather stick to what I'm good at - ie. writing ' she concluded with a smile.