Shilong Festival Literary
  • SHILLONG LITERARY 
    FESTIVAL

    Edition IV -18th, 19th Nov 2024
  • SHILLONG LITERARY 
    FESTIVAL

    Edition III -14th, 16th Nov 2023
  • SHILLONG LITERARY 
    FESTIVAL

    Edition II -21thNov 2022
  • SHILLONG LITERARY 
    FESTIVAL

    Edition I -25th, 27th Nov 2022

Introduction

The Shillong Literary Festival

Nestled in the lush green hills of Meghalaya, Shillong is famed for its stunning landscapes and deep-rooted traditions of folklore, storytelling, and festival celebrations that embody the region's cultural soul. The Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes have long passed down tales of nature, spirits, and resilience, creating a vivid cultural tapestry entwined with the land. Central to this heritage is the annual Shillong Festival, where the Shillong Literary Festival shines as a prominent feature, honoring the city’s literary heart. This gathering amplifies the voices of local poets and writers, preserving the wisdom and values of indigenous communities for the world to experience.

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Embracing both contemporary writing and traditional storytelling, the festival deepens our understanding of Shillong’s literary treasures and the connections between nature, folklore, and identity. More than a literary gathering, the Shillong festival celebrates communal spirit and heritage through cultural performances, a market spotlighting local entrepreneurs, and an unforgettable atmosphere set against the city’s stunning cherry blossoms. This November, as the festival returns for its fourth edition, it promises to continue the legacy of honoring local talent and connecting Shillong’s stories to the broader literary world. Join this remarkable celebration, where ancient traditions thrive alongside modern creativity.

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Edition IV

18th, 19th, 20th Nov, 2024
Over the past four years, the Shillong Literary Festival has become a beacon for celebrating the literary richness of Meghalaya and the broader Northeastern region. Drawing from Shillong’s deep reservoir of folklore, oral traditions, and contemporary writing, the festival has provided a vital platform for local poets, authors, and storytellers to share their works while engaging with literary voices from across the country. Its ability to blend traditional Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo narratives with modern expressions has marked it as a cultural highlight, fostering a space where the region’s unique heritage can be both preserved and celebrated.

This November, as the festival gears up for its much-anticipated 4th edition, it promises to offer a similar enriching experience. Attendees can expect a vibrant lineup of activities, including poetry readings, storytelling sessions, panel discussions, and interactive workshops that explore a range of themes from indigenous literature to contemporary environmental writing. Prominent speakers from both the region and beyond will take center stage, bringing with them diverse perspectives and creative energies. Previous editions have seen participation from renowned authors, poets, and scholars, and this year too, the festival aims to spotlight emerging voices while celebrating established literary talents, ensuring that Shillong’s literary spirit continues to thrive.

Activities

Speakers

Shillong 
Literary 
Festival 

Session List 18th, 19th, 20th Nov, 2024
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A Glimpse of the Previous Edition
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A Government of Meghalaya Initiative
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