Shillong, November 15 : The third edition of the Shillong Literary Festival kicked off today at Wards Lake or the Nan Polok, transforming the serene backdrop into a vibrant hub of intellectual discourse. The festival will run until November 16, 2023, and features a dynamic lineup of over 60 literary intellectuals, with more than 30 sessions encompassing author conversations, storytelling, interactive sessions, book launches, open mic performances, and captivating photography exhibitions.
Delivering a speech on the occasion, Tourism Minister Bah Paul Lyngdoh emphasized that the government is seriously endeavouring to create more opportunities, more outlets, more platforms.
He said, “Let us ensure that we can reverse what a famous poet once said – the best lack all conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity. It is time that the educated and the enlightened do not shy away from public discourses on matters of real importance. For a society to be progressive, I would urge upon all of you who are thought leaders, who are people with substance, people who can add and contribute to the growth trajectory of our very beautiful state, to let us join hands and ensure that our efforts do bear fruit. I am so inspired; I will certainly come back on one of these sessions not as a politician but as a writer and a poet.”
Dr Vijay Kumar D, Commissioner & Secretary, Government of Meghalaya, highlighted the crucial role of tourism and the creative economy in driving Meghalaya’s growth. He expressed his hope that the Shillong Literary Festival would serve as a platform for creative talents and help position the state as a premier high-value tourist destination.
The Shillong Literary Festival 2023 promises to be a literary odyssey that transcends boundaries, inviting participants to explore new dimensions of creativity, thought, and cultural exchange. With its diverse range of events and distinguished personalities, the festival is sure to redefine the very essence of the literary experience.
The festival features a host of distinguished personalities, including celebrated authors Janice Pariat, Rohan Chakravarty, Arghya Sengupta, Ambarish Satwik, Clemen Xavier, Parismita Singh, Naveen Kishore, Ankush Saikia, Jeyamohan, Sam Miller, Sanjoy Mukherjee, Nandini Oberoi, Desmond Kharmawphlang, Bijoya Sawian, Patricia Mukhim, Ian Lyngdoh, and Kyntiewbor War.
The Shillong Literary Festival 2023 is a must-attend event for enthusiasts and influencers alike, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the literary world and explore the power of words to transcend boundaries and inspire change.
