By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 20: The fifth edition of the Shillong Literary Festival commenced at the historic Ward’s Lake on Thursday, bringing together around 60 acclaimed writers, poets, filmmakers, and thinkers from India and around the world.
Considered the biggest literary gathering in the Northeast, this year’s festival promises a blend of international excellence and strong regional representation.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of International Booker Prize winner Banu Mustaq, celebrated global author Francesc Miralles of Ikigai fame, festival curator Malavika Banerjee, and Tourism Commissioner & Secretary Vijay Kumar D.
Addressing the gathering at the Shillong Literary Festival Prelude, Kannada writer and 2025 International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq expressed her admiration for Shillong.
“Shillong reminds me of rain-soaked poetry and quiet strength. Landscapes shape literature, just as literature shapes landscapes,” she said.
Encouraging audiences to embrace the festival spirit, she said, “Let these days be filled with conversations that surprise us, words that challenge us, and stories that stay long after we return home.”
Spanish author Francesc Miralles, co-author of Ikigai, said he was delighted to be part of the festival for the first time.
“We will have a wonderful conversation about Ikigai and the purpose of life. Thank you for having me in this little paradise,” he remarked.
Giving an overview of the festival, Festival curator Malavika Banerjee highlighted the eclectic mix of authors, performers, and young voices.
“We have a mosaic of thoughts and ideas to present to Shillong,” she said, mentioning stalwarts such as Francesc Miralles, Sanjoy Hazarika, and young writer Sam Dalrymple.
She added that the festival aims to foster thoughtful conversations rather than debates:
“Literature festivals are places where people listen quietly. There are reasonable conversations, music, and rhythm where there is normally dissonance.”
Banerjee also expressed pride in curating the Khasi and Garo programming for the first time.
From Meghalaya and the region, the festival features renowned writers including Streamlet Dkhar, Janice Pariat, Aiyinti Nongbri, Bandarilin Bairo, and Garo authors Barbara Sangma and Colnat Marak.
Dedicated sessions on Khasi and Garo literature underscore the festival’s commitment to showcasing indigenous narratives.
Last year, the Shillong Literary Festival drew over 15,000 visitors, reflecting its rapidly increasing cultural footprint. The presence of internationally recognised authors this year is expected to further inspire young and emerging writers from the state.
A major draw will be mountaineer Jamling Tenzing Norgay, son of the legendary Tenzing Norgay, and a panel featuring senior IAS and IPS officers discussing “Scaling Mount UPSC”, led by Sajjan Yadav of the Union Ministry of Finance.
Prominent Meghalaya personalities, including David Syiemlieh, Patricia Mukhim, Desmond Kharmawphlang, Glen Kharkongor, and Paul Lyngdoh, will participate through book launches and conversations.
The festival’s star quotient is elevated by Garo filmmaker Dominic Sangma, Bollywood actors Rajat Kapoor and Vinay Pathak, and musician Gino Banks with his band.
Artists from Meghalaya such as Merlvin Jude Mukhim and Alfidarie Kharsyntiew will also grace the event with performances.
The Shillong Literary Festival will continue till Saturday, offering an immersive celebration of literature, ideas, and creativity in the heart of the hills.
