Third edition of Shillong Literary Festival commences

Newmai News Network

Shillong, Nov 14: Today marks the grand inauguration of the third edition of the Shillong Literary Festival, 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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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