Itanagar: Celebrated poet, writer, and academic Hoshang Merchant will grace the 6th edition of the Arunachal Literature Festival.
Secretary of Information and Public Relations (IPR), Nyali Ete said that this year’s festival, scheduled to take place from November 13 to 15, will draw acclaimed writers and poets.
He further emphasized that ALF has emerged as a platform dedicated to celebrating literature, storytelling, and the arts, providing a space for diverse voices to come together and foster creativity and collaboration.
The festival will highlight Merchant’s groundbreaking contributions to Indian literature, particularly in exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and self-expression.
The festival, at the DK Convention Center in Arunachal Pradesh‘s Itanagar, will feature Merchant’s insightful discussions, readings, and perspectives on Indian literature.
Hoshang Merchant, renowned for his groundbreaking anthology “Yaraana: Gay Writing from India,” has been a pioneer in LGBTQ+ representation in Indian literature. His work, characterized by wit, warmth, and honesty, challenges societal norms and encourages readers to embrace diversity and inclusivity.
The festival will offer an exceptional opportunity for attendees to engage with Merchant’s groundbreaking work and gain insights into the evolving landscape of Indian literature.
A number of notable figures are expected to attend this year’s event, including literary luminaries like Mmhonlumo Kikon, Mitra Phukan, Raza Kazmi, Sathya Saran, Jerry Pinto and Harish Kapadia.
In addition to panel discussions and workshops, the festival will feature an exclusive Children’s Corner designed to engage younger audiences with storytelling sessions.
In response to a request from the Women’s Police Station, this year’s festival will include a special session for local inmates, highlighting the festival’s dedication to inclusivity and community outreach in WPS Itanagar.
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Among the festival’s highlights will be a storytelling workshop led by author and storyteller Vijayalakshmi Nagaraj, Reena Puri (Executive Editor of Amar Chitra Katha), and Ritoparna Hazra (Art Director at Amar Chitra Katha).
In addition, two-time National Award-winning screenwriter Ashok Mishra will conduct a session on filmmaking, offering insights into the craft for aspiring filmmakers.
