First Brahmaputra Literary Festival starts in Guwahati

Saying that the literature is the mirror of the society that reflects its strengths and weaknesses, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that literature enables the readers to ask questions, start conversations and look for answers in uncertain times.

Taking part in the inaugural function of first Brahmaputra Literary Festival at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in the city, Sonowal said that the festival would be a great platform for interaction and exchange of ideas between the readers and litterateurs from all over the country and abroad.

Referring to Brahmaputra and its glory, Sonowal said that literature of the state and region must highlight the river and its role in shaping Assamese identity at the global level.

“The river is the symbol Assamese pride and its place in culture and literature of the state is undeniable,” the Assam CM said.

“The River personifies the essence of life which inspires many to create master-pieces and Dr. Bhupen Hazarika through his timeless songs has portrayed the importance Brahmapura holds in the life of Assam,” Sonowal said.

Expressing hope that this three day literary festival would be able to inspire the young writers of the state and the region through their interaction with the eminent authors and litterateurs from different parts of the country as well as the world, the Assam CM said that the habit of reading must be inculcated among children so that more and more readers are created.   

Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar, who was the chief guest of the function, said that this is not only literary festival but a cultural investment conference whereby a platform is provided for cultural and literary exchanges.

Saying that development is not only about money and wealth, Javadekar stated that cultural progress of a nation is only important and the Central Government is making all efforts to encourage literature from young writers in all regional languages.

Sixteen foreign authors from 10 countries and some major writers from across India are participating in the festival.

Among noted participants will be Randy Taguchi from Japan, Carlo Pizaati, Giampaolo Simi and Alessandra Bertini from Italy, Francois Gautier and Nicoloi Idier from France. Prominent Indian writers who will participate include Damodar Mauzo, Subhash Kashyap, Makarand Paranjpe and Narendra Kohli, besides those from the North East.

Assam Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Secretary V.K. Pipersenia, National Book Trust Chairman Baldev Bhai Sharma, renowned author from Japan Randy Taguchi,  Konkan writer from Goa Damodar Mauzo  were present among others on the occasion.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)