Renowned historian and celebrated contemporary thinker Yuval Noah Harari returned to India to discuss his latest groundbreaking work, Nexus. Joined by Indian actor Aamir Khan and moderated by esteemed psychiatrist Dr. Rajesh Parikh, the event delved into the profound implications of technological advancements on humanity. Hosted by Crossword Bookstores—who had previously welcomed Harari in 2022 during their 30th-anniversary celebrations—in collaboration with Penguin Random House India, the exclusive gathering at The Lalit Mumbai was a remarkable convergence of intellect and insight.

The event commenced with a riveting discussion between Harari, Khan, and Dr. Parikh. They delved into the core themes of “Nexus,” examining the intricate interplay between biology, technology, and consciousness. The conversation ranged from the potential benefits of AI to the risks of unchecked technological progress. Discussing AI’s influence on human creativity, societal dynamics, and ethical framework Aamir Khan lent his insights “Humanity holds the power to create, sustain, and destroy—symbolized by Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh in Indian philosophy. Today, we lean towards destruction, as unchecked consumption drives ecological collapse. Unlike animals in harmony with nature, we’ve exploited it at great cost. Yet, we can choose Vishnu—the path of sustenance. By redefining progress to nurture and protect life, we can become stewards of the Earth, ensuring it thrives for generations to come. The true challenge lies in our choice to sustain.”

Acclaimed historian and philosopher Yuval Noah Harari says, “The future is shaped by today’s choices, and AI has the potential to transform lives—revolutionizing healthcare, education, and more. Yet, this power is concentrated in a few hands, risking global imbalance. To ensure AI benefits all, we need diverse voices guiding its development. My mission is to raise awareness of this revolution’s vast opportunities and dangers, empowering humanity to make informed decisions. Together, we can craft a future of collaboration, wisdom, and hope for generations to come.”

The atmosphere was electric, with attendees eager to engage with Harari’s insightful ideas. Following the insightful discussion, the floor opened for an engaging Q&A session, where fans had the rare opportunity to pose questions directly to the celebrated author. The exchange added a personal and dynamic touch, leaving the audience inspired and buzzing with ideas.

Aakash Gupta, CEO of Crossword Bookstores said “At Crossword we believe in championing books not just by selling them at our 120 stores but also by curating meaningful events. Hosting a conversation between two visionaries, Yuval Noah Harari and Aamir Khan, is a privilege that reflects our commitment to fostering intellectual discourse and a vibrant reading culture in India. This evening promises to be a celebration of knowledge, creativity, and the power of storytelling.”The event was a resounding success, captivating the audience with its intellectual depth and visionary insights.

As the world grapples with the rapid pace of technological change, the dialogue between Harari, Khan, and Dr. Parikh offered a much-needed roadmap for navigating the complexities of the 21st century.