Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024 to Illuminate Bali’s Cultural Spirit with Thought-Provoking Dialogues and Creative Performances*

Written By: Rishabh anchalia

Rishabh anchalia

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October 23, 2024 7:00 AM

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The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, set to take place from October 24, 2024, is a highly anticipated event in Bali, Indonesia. Celebrated for its vibrant exchange of ideas, literature, and culture, the festival attracts a diverse audience of writers, readers, and thought leaders from around the world. Nestled in the picturesque town of Ubud, renowned for its lush rice terraces and rich cultural heritage, the event promises a unique blend of thought-provoking discussions, book launches, and performances that reflect the dynamic spirit of Bali’s artistic community.

Key Features of the Festival

• Diverse Programming: The festival features a wide array of events, including panel discussions, workshops, book launches, and performances. It showcases both established and emerging writers, artists, and intellectuals from various fields.
• International Participation: UWRF draws a global lineup of speakers, including Pulitzer Prize winners, novelists, poets, and activists. The festival emphasizes cross-cultural dialogue and often includes discussions on pressing social issues.
• Themes: Each year, the festival adopts a unique theme that reflects contemporary societal concerns. For instance, the 2023 festival theme was “Atita, Wartamana, Anagata: The Past, the Present, and the Future,” inspired by the Balinese concept of time as non-linear and collective[1][4].
• Accessibility: Approximately 40% of the events are free to attend, with tiered pricing for ticketed events to ensure inclusivity. This approach allows a broad audience to engage with literature and ideas[3].

Upcoming Festivals

• 2024 Festival Dates: The next UWRF will take place from October 23 to 27, 2024. Early bird tickets are currently available for purchase[1].
• Writers Retreat: In addition to the main festival events, UWRF offers a Writers Retreat led by acclaimed authors. The 2024 retreat will be facilitated by Laura Jean McKay from October 20 to 27[1].

Notable Speakers and Events

The festival features an impressive lineup of speakers each year. For example:

• 2024 Speakers: Notable authors such as Amitav Ghosh and Ali Cobby Eckermann are among those confirmed for the upcoming festival[1].
• Past Highlights: Previous festivals have included discussions with environmental activists like Vandana Shiva and celebrated authors such as Bernardine Evaristo[2].

Cultural Significance

The UWRF is not just a literary event; it serves as a cultural hub that promotes Indonesian literature and arts. It provides a platform for local writers to gain international recognition while also fostering dialogue on global issues like human rights, environmental sustainability, and cultural identity.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Partners

Bronze Partners

• Australia Embassy Indonesia
• Mizan Publishing
• Melbourne University Publishing

Silver Partners

• Ubud Literary Club Inc.
• Planet Wheeler
• Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape

Media Partners

• Talks
• The Green Room
• NOW! Bali

Supported By

• Government of Indonesia
• Dharma Bhakti Kasih Dana Abadi (Dana Abadi)
• LPDP (Lembaga Pengelola Dana Pendidikan)

Platinum Partners

• Honeymoon Guesthouse
• Plataran Hotels & Resorts
• Casa Luna Restaurant

Global Voices Converge: UWRF 2024 Lineup Celebrates Literary Diversity

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024 will feature an impressive lineup of speakers representing diverse voices from across the globe. Among the distinguished attendees is Goenawan Mohamad from Indonesia, a prominent journalist and poet known for his impactful writing.

From Australia, authors like Laura Elizabeth Woollett, renowned for her fiction, and Sara M. Saleh, a celebrated poet and human rights advocate, will be sharing their insights. Indonesian literary stalwart Seno Gumira Adjidarma will also be part of the program, alongside Maria Ressa, the Philippines’ Nobel laureate journalist.

Internationally acclaimed authors such as Nam Le from Australia and Amitav Ghosh from India will add to the festival’s global dialogue. Representing the United Kingdom, Jack Edwards, a popular writer and book influencer, will join the stage, while Omar Musa, a poet and novelist from Australia, will bring his unique voice. Indonesian filmmaker and actress Lola Amaria will contribute her perspective, and from Ireland, Alan Murrin, an expert in cultural studies, will engage with audiences.

The festival will also host Laura Jean McKay from Australia, known for her speculative fiction, and Janet Steele from the United States, a distinguished academic and journalist. Australian Indigenous leader Marcia Langton AO and human rights activist Andreas Harsono from Indonesia will offer their valuable viewpoints. Meanwhile, Juliet Kinsman from the United States will delve into sustainable travel, and British author Molly Oldfield will share her love for obscure facts and knowledge.

Notable speakers also include James Sebastiano from the United States, whose work focuses on mental health awareness, and Oka Rusmini, an Indonesian writer exploring social themes. Indian poet Sujata Khanna and Australian anthropologist Benjamin Hegarty will join the dialogue, as will Khin Myint and Sarah Mosca, both hailing from Australia. Indonesia’s literary scene will be further represented by authors like Dian Kristiani, Abdi Karya, and Fatris MF.

The list continues with cultural figures like Warih Wisatsana, Ibe S. Palogai, and Putik Padi from Indonesia, along with Aziziah Diah Aprilya, whose works reflect the country’s diverse narratives. From Australia, academic Aaron Corn and historian Lynette Russell will share their expertise, while economist Andrew Rosser will provide insights into social policy.

Representing the United Arab Emirates, Namal Siddiqui will bring a unique perspective to the discussions. Completing this diverse lineup are Steph Harmon from Australia, and Laksmi DeNeefe Suardana from Indonesia, whose contributions to the literary and cultural community are highly anticipated.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Schedule

Thursday, October 8, 2021

06:30 – 08:00

• Birdwatching Tour with Darryl Jones
  Meeting Point: Bequest Culture
  (Tickets Available, Special Events)

09:00 – 09:10

• Festival Welcome
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)

09:00 – 11:00

• Guardians of the Green, Save the Forest!
  Location: Sekolah Dasar Negeri (SDN) 3 Ubud
  (Children & Youth Program)

09:00 – 10:30

• Dream Big! Fun Storytime with Dian Kristiani
  Location: Sekolah Dasar Negeri (SDN) 2 Kedewatan
  (Children & Youth Program)

09:15 – 09:30

• Keynote: Paul Caruana Galizia – Speak the Truth
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)

10:00 – 11:00

• Bora Chung: Your Utopia
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)
• Nam Le: 36 Ways to Write a Vietnamese Poem
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)
• Sathnam Sanghera: Empireworld
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)
• Create Your Own Short Story with Miranda Seftiana
  Location: Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) 1 Ubud
  (Children & Youth Program)
• Storytelling Magic with Folklore!
  Location: Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) 3 Denpasar
  (Children & Youth Program)
• Creative Writing Class
  Location: SMA N 7 Denpasar
  (Children & Youth Program)
• Mordant Printing with Symplocos on Barkcloth and Cotton with Cinta Bumi Artisans
  Location: Threads of Life Dye Studio at Umajati Retreat
  (Tickets Available, Art & Cultural Program)
• Palm-Leaf Manuscripts on Rain Shaman Knowledge Exhibition by Hanacaraka Society
  Location: Honeymoon Garden
  (Art & Cultural Program)

11:15 – 12:15

• Aube Rey Lescure: River East, River West
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)
• Defending Democracy in the Golden Triangle
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)
• Innovating Tradition: Sri Paduka Mangkoenagoro X’s Cultural Vision for Indonesia
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)

11:30 – 12:30

• Interlude
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Book Launches)

11:30 – 13:00

• The Pitch: A Masterclass for Translators with Anton Hur
  Location: Hotel Tjampuhan Spa
  (Tickets Available, Masterclasses)

12:30 – 13:30

• Norman Erikson Pasaribu: My Dream Job
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)
• Ratih Kumala: Cigarette Girl
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)
• Waves of Imagination: Maritime Novels
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)

13:00 – 14:00

• Sang Gunung Menyerahkan Jejaknya ke Laut
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Book Launches)

13:45 – 14:45

• Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter: Songs from the Kitchen Table
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)
• The Power of Eco-Fiction: Inspiring Action on Climate Change
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)
• Sal Priadi: Markers and Such Pens Flashdisks
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)

14:00 – 16:00

• How to Make Your Book a Bestseller: Initiatives for Success
  Location: The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud
  (Tickets Available, Masterclasses)

14:00 – 15:00

• Travel Writing Workshop with Juliet Kinsman
  Location: Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
  (Tickets Available, Masterclasses)
• Paradise not for Sale: Exploring Bali’s Contemporary Identity through Art and Curation
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)

14:30 – 15:30

• Good Enough
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Book Launches)

15:00 – 16:00

• The Role of Literary Translators in Global Literature Culture
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)
• Navigating Mental Health Through Writing
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)
• Equations Of Breath
  Location: Dumbo
  (Book Launches)
• Fuchsia Dunlop – Invitation to a Banquet: The Story of Chinese Food
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)

15:00 – 17:00

• Crafting Reality: Creative Non-Fiction Writing Workshop with Agustinus Wibowo
  Location: Plataran Ubud Hotels & Spa
  (Tickets Available, Masterclasses)
• Unstuck: Ideas for Your Next Zine – Masterclass with Cahyati Press
  Location: Sala Bistro Ubud
  (Tickets Available, Masterclasses)

16:00 – 17:00

• How Do You Want To Die?
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Book Launches)
• Donuts, Drama, and Destination Dreams – Joint Book Launch
  Location: The Powder Room by R4D
  (Book Launches)
• A Guide to Bali Dogs
  Location: Honeymoon Garden
  (Book Launches)
• Discover the Magic of Taro Village: Fireflies Tour
  Location: Rumah Konservasi Kunang-Kunang at Tegal Dukuh Camp, Taro-Bali
  (Limited Availability Tickets, Special Events)
• Popi dan Popok
  Location: The Elephant
  (Book Launches)

16:15 – 17:15

• Threads of Time: Multiple Narrative Fiction
  Location: Indus Restaurant
  (Main Program)
• Mastering the Craft: Unleashing the Truth in Non-Fiction and Journalism
  Location: Valley Stage
  (Main Program)
• Melodies and Words: The Creative Symphony of the Lesmana Family
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Main Program)

17:30 – 19:00

• Steeped in Tradition: The Historical Pathways of Hinduism
  Location: Honeymoon Garden
  (Special Events)
• Sal Priadi di Ubud
  Location: Museum Puri Lukisan
  (Tickets Available, Special Events)
• Embracing Tourism, Preserving Locality
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Festival Club)

18:00 – 19:00

• Taman Puisi Thursday: A Gathering of Balinese Poets
  Location: Taman Baca
  (Music & Performances)
• Tanpa Rencana
  Location: Titik Dua
  (Book Launches)

19:00 – 20:00

• Sang Hyang Dedari
  Location: Alang-Alang Stage
  (Film Program)
• Shutter Stories Thursday
  Location: Rumah Kayu
  (Festival Club)

19:00 – 21:30

• Voices of the Unheard
  Location: BetelNut
  (Special Events)

19:30 – 22:00

• Den Kisot: A Puppet Theater Adaptation of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote de la Mancha
  Location: Museum Puri Lukisan
  (Music & Performances)

20:00 – 22:00

• Poetry Night at Casa Luna
  Location: Casa Luna
  (Special Events)

Travel Guide to the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024

Event Dates: October 23 – 27, 2024
Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and art set in the heart of Bali’s lush, cultural hub, Ubud. If you’re planning to attend, here’s everything you need to know to make your visit memorable.

Accommodation Options

Ubud boasts a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy, budget-friendly stays, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Luxury Retreats:

• Plataran Ubud Hotel & Spa: A luxurious resort nestled amidst lush greenery, offering serene views and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Honeymoon Guesthouse: A boutique hideaway perfect for those seeking privacy and relaxation in a traditional Balinese setting.
• Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape: A secluded hideaway offering a unique blend of luxury and nature, ideal for those looking to disconnect.

Elegant Sanctuaries:

• The Royal Pita Maha: An elegant resort featuring stunning views of the Ayung River, perfect for a rejuvenating stay.
• The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud: Combining modern comfort with traditional Balinese charm, this resort is ideal for relaxation.

Unique & Boutique Stays:

• B.Saya Villa: A charming villa offering a homely, intimate experience amidst beautiful gardens.
• The Pari Sudha: An authentic luxury suite experience that merges modern comforts with traditional Balinese elements.

Eco-Friendly and Wellness Retreats:

• GDAS Bali Health & Wellness Resort: A holistic retreat focusing on well-being, with an emphasis on sustainable practices.
• Natura Resort & Spa: Eco-friendly villas surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Ubud’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its cultural heritage. From cozy cafes to fine dining restaurants, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your taste buds.

Fine Dining:

• Arcadia Restaurant Ubud: Offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that blends local flavors with international cuisine.
• Lynked Restaurant Ubud: Known for its elegant atmosphere and a diverse menu that highlights the best of Balinese and Western dishes.

Casual & Thematic Dining:

• The Yoga Barn: A popular spot for health-conscious travelers, offering a range of organic and vegetarian options.
• The Elephant: A cozy eatery that serves wholesome, vegetarian comfort food with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Unique Coffee & Dessert Spots:

• Room4Dessert: A must-visit for dessert lovers, this place offers creative and indulgent sweets that are a feast for the senses.
• Ubud Coffee Roastery: A quaint coffee shop that serves some of the best locally sourced coffee, perfect for a quick break.

Exploring Ubud and Beyond

While in Ubud, take time to explore its rich cultural offerings and beautiful surroundings. The town is known for its vibrant arts scene, wellness retreats, and breathtaking landscapes.

Cultural Highlights:

• Ubud Art Market: A bustling market where you can find unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: A lush forest inhabited by playful monkeys and dotted with ancient temples, offering a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage.

Wellness & Relaxation:

• Yoga and Meditation: Ubud is home to numerous yoga studios and wellness centers where you can rejuvenate your mind and body.
• Spa Experiences: Indulge in traditional Balinese spa treatments at any of the luxury resorts or boutique spas in town.

Outdoor Adventures:

• Tegallalang Rice Terraces: A stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, these terraces offer a breathtaking view and a chance to experience Bali’s natural beauty.
• Campuhan Ridge Walk: A scenic trek through rolling hills and lush landscapes, perfect for a peaceful morning walk.

Getting Around

Ubud is a small town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, consider renting a scooter or hiring a driver for the day. Many accommodations also offer shuttle services to and from the festival venues.

With its rich cultural tapestry, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant literary scene, Ubud offers a unique setting for the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in Bali’s enchanting atmosphere, this festival promises an unforgettable experience.