Shillong: The fourth edition of the Shillong Literary Fest began on a grand note, with acclaimed authors Vikram Seth, Shobhaa De, Jerry Pinto, and Kynpham S Nongkynrh gracing the event.
The three-day festival, inaugurated by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, aims to inspire youth through literature and the arts.
Held at 10:30 AM, the inauguration ceremony highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering creativity and providing platforms for budding talent. Chief Minister Sangma expressed gratitude to the festival’s organizing team for their dedication over the past four years. “This festival is not just a celebration of literature but a stepping stone to making it a national and international event in the future,” he remarked.
Author Vikram Seth, known for his iconic novel A Suitable Boy, lauded Meghalaya’s scenic beauty, comparing Shillong to Kyoto rather than Scotland. “With the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the awe-inspiring Khasi monoliths, this place deserves global recognition,” he said, calling for greater awareness of Meghalaya’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh emphasized the festival’s role in nurturing young talent. “This platform allows youth to explore their passions and receive the support they need to thrive,” he noted, underscoring the significance of such events in guiding emerging writers.
Principal Secretary to the Tourism Department, D Vijay Kumar, described the fest as a hub for exchanging ideas and thanked the government for its consistent support. He expressed hope that the festival would grow into a premier literary event on the national and global stage.
Chief Minister Sangma also spoke about the need for documenting history and culture, announcing plans to expand research fellowships under a government-supported program. “Through this festival, we aim to ignite a passion for reading, writing, and documentation among the youth, ensuring our stories are preserved for future generations,” he added.
The festival’s opening day attracted a vibrant crowd of students, writers, and book lovers eager to immerse themselves in discussions, readings, and cultural exchanges. The Shillong Literary Fest 2024 promises to be a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and the written word, firmly establishing the city as a cultural beacon in the literary world.
Read More: Eight Key BJP Leaders in Jiribam Mandal Resign Over Growing Discontent with Manipur’s Crisis