HT Digital,
Sivsagor, Jan 7: Assam’s historic town of Sivasagar is set to transform into a vibrant hub of ideas and culture as the Brahmaputra Literature Festival 2026 unfolds from February 6 to 8, with a formal inauguration on February 5. Organised by the Adharxila Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and promoting Assam and Northeast India’s literary and cultural heritage, the festival aims to blend local traditions with global perspectives.
This year’s theme, “A Confluence of Rhythm, Word & Art – Celebrating the Voice of Humanity”, reflects the festival’s commitment to honouring the region’s artistic soul while building bridges across nations, languages and cultures. Under the direction of noted author Dr Rita Chowdhury, chief trustee of Adharxila and festival director, the three-day event promises an immersive experience bringing together music, poetry, cinema and oral traditions.
Related Posts:
The festival will host writers and performers from across India and abroad, including Daniel-Levente Pal from Hungary, Dr Thin Thin Aye from Myanmar, Jana Bednarova from Slovakia, Anindita Dasgupta from Malaysia, Hansraj Ramkishan from Trinidad and Lapit Ole Njapit from Kenya. Lapit Ole Njapit and Martina Moran from the Moran community will jointly inaugurate the event by cutting the ribbon at the ceremonial gate.
A curtain-raiser in Gauripur will celebrate the legacy of Raja Prabhat Chandra Baruah, also known as Pramathesh Barua, and the women of the Rajbari for their contributions to art, culture and tradition. The programme places special focus on the Bodo and Mishing communities, showcasing their distinctive traditions, artistry and cultural identity.
Key observances include the birth anniversary of late Manipuri princess Binodini Devi in the presence of her son L. Somi Roy, the commemoration of 200 years of the Yandabu Accord, and the marking of 200 years of tea in Assam. The festival will also remember 70 years since the atomic bombing and observe 78 years of Xilpir Prithibi, acknowledging their historical and cultural significance.
Among the highlights is the release of Children of Bird God Hill by Iris McFarlane, with an announcement that book royalties will be dedicated to the welfare and education of tea tribe children. An interactive online session with Rubul Mahut will engage students in direct discussion, while an award ceremony will felicitate five icons from diverse creative fields.
“The Brahmaputra is not merely a river; it is a metaphor for humanity—vast, inclusive, timeless and musical,” Dr Chowdhury said, adding that the festival aims to become a meeting ground for humanity where words find melody and silence becomes song. The festival is open to all and will be held across multiple venues in Sivasagar.
