The conclusion of the third edition of the Shillong Literary Festival was marked by a dynamic closing ceremony at the Ward’s Lake, attended by esteemed dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma and Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh.
The festival, which commenced on November 14th, showcased a vibrant blend of literary discussions, book launches, and cultural celebrations, solidifying its status as a premier literary event in the region. As a youth outreach activity, a Capacity Building workshop on Literary Critique was organised at the North Eastern Hill University, (NEHU) Shillong, today.
In a resounding speech, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing literary talent, stating, “Our government aims to encourage the youth to delve into writing, research, and become successful authors. I’m pleased to announce a special fund and program to financially support researchers, writers, and authors in our local language.”
Reflecting on the festival’s success, the Chief Minister shared his experience, stating, “Attended the closing ceremony of the third Shillong Literary Festival, hosted as part of the #CherryBlossomFestival at beautiful Wards Lake. It’s so nice to learn about the array of events including interactive sessions, book launches, open mic for city poets, and creativity contests.”
Curated by Mary Therese Kurkalang, the festival boasted a diverse lineup of over 70 authors, speakers, book experts, and storytellers who engaged in enriching conversations. The event featured captivating book launches, musical and poetic performances, interactive open mic sessions, and intellectual quizzes, providing a multifaceted experience for attendees.
Beyond the literary realm, the festival offered a culinary delight with diverse food stalls showcasing menus from across the state. Visitors indulged in lip-smacking delights, enhancing the overall experience of the literary fest with a culinary adventure.
Renowned authors such as Janice Pariat, Rohan Chakravarty, Sam Miller, Swati Daftuar Jeyamohan, Ankush Saikia, Sanjoy Mukherjee, and others graced the festival, contributing to its success. Their presence added an extra layer of prestige to the event, making it a memorable celebration of literature, culture, and creativity.
The Shillong Literary Festival, with its successful third edition, has once again proven to be a beacon for literary enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant literary community in the heart of Shillong.
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