Symposium on Blogging

Conceived at Ramesh’ canteen, this idea was initially like a dream for us to come together and discuss it over numerous cups of tea. Later, it turned into a reality. Attended by journalism students, enthu-bloggers and techno savvies, the much-debated Symposium on blogging held in Pune this evening amidst a cheering response.

Event on blogging isn’t new anywhere anymore. But then today’s was arguably the first of its kind because of its unique nature- not just it was organised by University’s department but the participation of non-bloggers with equal fervor made it a unique.

Honestly at the beginning I had reservations about its success. But then, Madhyamites, a group comprising myself, Nitin, Prasann and Ganesh along with journalism department head Dr Ujjwala Barve organised each thing so well that the event finally turned a grand success.

Initial concerns about audience, panelists and other issues vanished soon when two guests- Pradyuman Maheshwari and Debashish Chakrabarti reached before time while listeners followed them anon to fill the Garaware college audio-visual hall.

Maheshwari, a seasoned journalist, discussed various nuances of this new medium. Debashish, a known name in the blogoshere, covered various aspects leaving no issue on blogging untouched. A big thank to both of them.

These sessions were followed by the other equally interesting sessions. There was however a quick tea break in between to help us remain non-sleepy.

After break Symposium resumed. Ravi Amale, a friend and blogger, talked about simple precautions to be taken while blogging. He delivered some quick tips on how blogging in Marathi will help us break barriers to set new standards. Till evening I used to take pride of being privy about some secrets that I and Ravi shared. I sounded fool when Amrita- Prasann’s friend- discussed that secret with an ease. It appear tobe a well-known thing to many in the field. A moment to realize that I am no longer privileged.

Fourth session was my favorite. Blogging isn’t new for me, but recent developments including Kunte-Barkha Dutt saga and a landmark judgment by apex court on commentary on blogs through comments was all we were looking to discuss with adv. Vaishali Bhagwat, who counsels police on cyber laws. It was a recollection of old memories when adv Bhagwat taught us copyright and defamation. Only difference this time was I remained more cautious and eager to listen to her since the issues she discussed were directly pertinent to my professional and extra-professional activities.

The bloggers and others who participated in the last session actually came as icing on the cake. Their eagerness to converse with each helped us re-ensconced our belief that future event will be even bigger and sure to say a grand success. And yes, how can I forget twits- Amit Paranjpe and Navin Kabra- their participation made the event even more exciting.

Here, I specially thank Prasann, Nitin, Ganesh, Dr Barve and many other participants who helped this event an exciting affair.