Mysore/Mysuru, July 7 -- "Villages are not resorts for relaxation. Visiting them with such a mindset makes the experience feel static and disconnected. One must mingle with rural people and understand their realities," said renowned Kannada writer, filmmaker and director Nagathihalli Chandrashekar.

He was speaking at a Kannada symposium titled 'Sahitya-Cinema-Halli Hambalada Tekkeyalli' (literature and cinema in the rustic embrace of village life), held on the second day of the 9th edition of the Mysuru Literature Festival. The session was moderated by Prof. C. Naganna.

"Rural development cannot be achieved overnight. We must stay committed to our intentions and ignore cynicism. My connection to my village is grounded in the principle o...