An engaging evening of conversation and reflection unfolded in Goa as The Write Circle brought together readers, thinkers, and literature enthusiasts for an insightful interaction with author and distinguished bureaucrat Swati Pandey. In conversation with Shruti Jaiswal Juwarkar, Ehsaas Woman of Goa, Pandey shared reflections from her literary journey, professional experiences, and the transformative power of storytelling to illuminate overlooked realities and inspire social change.

The discussion offered audiences a deeper understanding of the experiences that shaped Pandey’s writing and public service journey. Drawing from her work in Mumbai’s Kamathipura and the stories documented in Invisible in Plain Sight, she reflected on the profound impact of the pandemic on the lives and livelihoods of sex workers, many of whom found themselves further marginalised during a time of crisis. She also spoke candidly about navigating bureaucratic systems and entrenched societal attitudes while working to address their needs. At the heart of the conversation were the stories of women whose lives often remain ignored, overlooked, or intentionally unseen because they challenge conventional narratives and compel society to confront uncomfortable realities. Through these reflections, Pandey underscored the power of storytelling to foster empathy, understanding, and meaningful social change.

Swati Pandey is the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Maharashtra Airport Development Company and a distinguished career bureaucrat with nearly three decades of service across aviation, infrastructure, public policy, and financial inclusion. Her acclaimed debut book, Invisible in Plain Sight, draws upon her experiences working with vulnerable communities and offers a nuanced portrayal of the lives of commercial sex workers. A National Award-winning

filmmaker and TEDx speaker, Pandey continues to champion social equity and meaningful public policy through both her professional and creative pursuits.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome address by Gaurapriya Pai Kane, Ehsaas Woman of Goa, setting the tone for an enriching literary exchange. Audience participation added further depth to the conversation, creating a vibrant space for dialogue and shared perspectives.

As a token of appreciation and remembrance, Swati Pandey was felicitated by Aejaz Sheikh with exquisite Dokra artefacts. The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Vaishali Joshi, Ehsaas Woman of Goa, bringing to a close a memorable evening celebrating books, ideas, and meaningful conversations.

The event was organised with the support of the Ehsaas Women of Goa; hospitality partner Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage, and print media partner Lokmat