Five years of Editions

The 5th edition of the Shillong Literary Festival was held at the iconic Ward's Lake from November 20–22, 2025, bringing together international, national, and local voices for a three-day celebration of literature and creativity.

Day 1 opened with a welcome address by Dr. Vijay Kumar D., followed by sessions featuring Banu Mushtaq and Francesc Miralles. Speakers, including Sanjoy Hazarika, Sonal Jain, and Desmond Kharmawphlang, shared insights, alongside a live drawing by Dennis Laishram and readings by Valden Pariat. Sessions with Rosy Chamling, Hoihnu Hauzel, and others enriched the day, culminating in a discussion with Banu Mushtaq and a theatrical performance, Nothing Like Lear.

Day 2 began with book launches in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. Panels featured Vinay Pathak, Dominic Sangma, and Rajat Kapoor, followed by sessions with Anita Agnihotri, Narayani Basu, and more. Highlights included Shehan Karunatilaka in conversation with Sanjoy Hazarika and a talk by Jamling Norgay. The day concluded with a jazz performance by the Gino Banks Groove Project.

Day 3 featured sessions by emerging and established voices, poetry readings, a UPSC-focused discussion, and reflections from the Shillong Chamber Choir. The festival concluded with a musical performance by Alex Poulton.

The 4th edition of The Shillong Literary Festival took place from November 18th to 20th, 2024. It was inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, setting the stage for an extraordinary gathering of literary minds. Last year's event welcomed an array of acclaimed authors, including Vikram Seth, Shobhaa De, Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih, Jerry Pinto, H.E. Firat Sunel, former Ambassador of Turkey to India, each bringing their unique perspectives to enrich the festival.

The event included inspiring talks from distinguished speakers like Dr. Lalnunsanga Ralte, Dr. Desmond Kharmawphlang, and Prof. Streamlet Dkhar, which sparked meaningful discussions among attendees.

A notable book launch took place for Anita Agnihotri's work, "A Touch of Salt," alongside the collection of Khasi poetry titled "Ki Sngi Thame u Hynniewtrep," curated by Avner Pariat.

As the festival drew to a close, the evening was illuminated by a musical performance of "Mamma Mia" by the students of St. Edmund's School. The creativity and expression woven through the three days marked the event as a resounding success and a cherished memory in the hearts of all who attended.

The 3rd Edition of the festival unfolded from November 14-16, 2023, bringing together a diverse literary enthusiasts and creative minds. Among its notable speakers were the esteemed writer and journalist Sam Miller, alongside the authors Janice Pariat and Ankush Saikia, each sharing their unique perspectives and insights.

The festival also celebrated the launch of ‘Stories from the Valley,’ a captivating collection penned by D. Junisha Khongwir and Karen L. Donoghue.

Throughout the three days, attendees enjoyed musical performances, delectable local delicacies, and participated in interactive storytelling sessions that sparked imagination. The open mic for poets created a lively atmosphere, inviting expressive voices to share their art. Engaging conversations flowed among writers and distinguished personalities, fostering an environment of creativity and inspiration.

The following year, the Shillong Literary Festival celebrated its 2nd Edition, officially opened on November 21, 2022, by the Hon'ble Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. The festival began with a tribute to Temsula Ao, honoring her life and work, followed by thought-provoking conversations with key speakers Rahul Bose, Vidhya Krishnan, Jerry Pinto, Junisha Khongwir, and Isawando Laloo, among others. The first day provided an opportunity for attendees to interact with writers, artists, and other notable personalities.

Initially planned for three days, the festival was unfortunately cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, resulting in the cancellation of the remaining two days. However, the spirit of the festival was revitalized in the following year at the 3rd edition.

The first-ever Shillong Literary Festival was inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma alongside Japanese Ambassador H.E. Satoshi Suzuki on November 25, 2021. The three-day event featured various activities, including a book launch for ‘Marriage’ by Devdutt Patnaik. One of the standout features was the conversation titled "Between the Lines," which brought together esteemed journalists Shekhar Gupta and David Laitphlang. Notable speakers included Christine G. Momin, Dasumarlin Majaw, Madeline Tham, Naphibahun Lyngdoh, and Dokatchi Marak, each sharing their unique perspectives and literary journeys.