SHILLONG, Nov 15: The third Shillong Literary Festival has been
inaugurated, transforming the serene backdrop of Wards Lake
or the Nan Polok, into a vibrant hub of intellectual discourse.
Running until November 16, 2023, the festival promises a
dynamic lineup of over 60 literary intellectuals, featuring 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 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, expressed hope that festivals and tourism to
become a huge growth engine for the state and to keep the
youth engaged wherein such festivals are opportunities to
provide platforms for creative talents.
He said, “Tourism and the creative economy emerge as crucial
drivers for Meghalaya’s growth, given the state’s well-known
natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and overall richness.
Deliberations within the tourism department and state
government have long revolved around building Meghalaya
into a distinguished tourist destination.
The focus lies in strategically positioning the state and its cities
as hosts for high-value events, interactions, and engagements.
The goal is to attract a specific target audience, niche tourists,
and individuals capable of amplifying Meghalaya’s image,
fostering its reputation as a premier high-value tourist
destination.”
Among the distinguished personalities gracing the event are
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 literary odyssey that
transcends boundaries, inviting participants to explore new
dimensions of creativity, thought, and cultural exchange. As the
festival unfolds, it promises to redefine the very essence of the
literary experience, making it a must-attend event for
enthusiasts and influencers alike. (NNN)
