Srinagar, Oct 04 (KNO): The much-awaited second edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival is all set to commence from 11th to 12th October at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. Following the success of its inaugural edition in December last year, the festival aims to celebrate and revive Kashmir’s rich literary and intellectual heritage.
Organized by the Shrikula Foundation, the festival according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) will bring together eminent authors, scholars, and intellectuals from across India.
Among the participants of the fest includes former Vice Chancellor of Kashmir University, Khurshid Andrabi, JK Bank Managing Director Amitabh Chatterjee, and noted Kashmiri writer Neerja Mattu, who will be part of the Kashmiri literature speaker panel. The festival will be inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at 10 am on 11th October.
The festival has emerged as a platform for Kashmiri youth to engage with intellectuals, fostering dialogue between students from various institutions and prominent writers.
Speaking about the event, a member of the organizing committee said, “Last year, I was invited merely as an audience member. But the organizers gave me a platform to participate and speak alongside some of the most respected intellectuals. Today, I am part of the organizing committee, and I encourage all Kashmiri youngsters to contribute to this initiative.”
The organizers said that the festival is not only about literature but also about redefining Kashmir’s global image. “Kashmir often faces negative perceptions, but through this festival, we aim to showcase our rich heritage, culture, and intellectual legacy to the world,” the spokesperson added.
The Kashmir Literature Festival will also provide opportunities for young authors and volunteers to actively engage in the event, ensuring that the voices of the new generation are heard on a larger platform. The organizers extend an open invitation to everyone to join this cultural initiative and contribute to spreading the ‘Kashmir Aawaaz’ globally.
With its unique blend of literature, culture, and dialogue, the Kashmir Literature Festival continues to strengthen the Valley’s literary tradition and promises to be a landmark event in the region’s cultural calendar—(KNO)