Dibrugarh University International Literature Festival 2026 Set to Illuminate Global Literary Landscape
The Dibrugarh University International Literature Festival (DUILF), a premier celebration of literature, ideas, and cultural exchange, is poised to return for its highly anticipated third edition. Scheduled from February 18th to 21st, 2026, this four-day literary extravaganza will unfold at the picturesque campus of Dibrugarh University in Assam, India.
A Collaborative Effort to Elevate India's Literary Presence
Organized by Dibrugarh University in strategic partnership with the Foundation for Culture, Arts and Literature (FOCAL), a Guwahati-based non-profit trust, DUILF 2026 aims to further consolidate and amplify India's stature on the international literary stage. This festival represents a significant cultural initiative designed to foster global connections through the power of words and storytelling.
Star-Studded Lineup of International Literary Luminaries
DUILF 2026 promises an impressive gathering of literary talent, featuring over 150 distinguished speakers, writers, and poets hailing from 25 different countries across the globe. The festival will showcase an array of internationally acclaimed authors, including:
- Ann Morgan, renowned for her groundbreaking global literary project A Year of Reading the World.
- Kyung-sook Shin, the award-winning South Korean novelist whose works have captivated readers worldwide.
- Yesse Dorei Thongchi, an acclaimed Indian author celebrated for his literary contributions.
- Mai Khaled, an Egyptian novelist recognized for her unique and influential contributions to Middle Eastern literature.
In addition to these literary giants, the festival will host a diverse array of storytellers, performers, and cultural practitioners, creating a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Building on the success of previous editions, DUILF-3 is projected to attract between 10,000 to 12,000 literary enthusiasts, students, and cultural aficionados from across India and beyond.
Spotlight on Middle Eastern and North African Literature
The 2026 edition of DUILF will adopt a distinctive thematic focus, shining a spotlight on literature from the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region. Under the evocative theme where "words weave worlds," the festival aims to facilitate meaningful cross-cultural conversations and dialogues.
This thematic emphasis will be thoughtfully interwoven with the festival's ongoing commitment to foregrounding the rich oral traditions and cultural heritage of Northeast India. By bridging these diverse literary landscapes, DUILF seeks to create a unique platform for mutual understanding and artistic exchange.
Diverse Programming for an Immersive Literary Experience
Over the course of four dynamic days, DUILF 2026 will offer attendees a comprehensive and engaging program featuring:
- Author Conversations and intimate dialogues with literary masters.
- Panel Discussions exploring diverse topics ranging from poetry and fiction to international affairs, films, and sports.
- Literary Readings that bring written words to life through vocal performance.
- Interactive Workshops designed to nurture creativity and literary skills.
- Community-Led Cultural Experiences that showcase local traditions and artistic practices.
This multifaceted programming reinforces the festival's growing significance within India's cultural tourism landscape, positioning Assam as a must-visit destination for literary and cultural exploration.
Visionary Leadership and Cultural Mission
Rahul Jain, Curator and Chief Coordinator of DUILF, articulated the festival's profound vision: "DUILF was conceived as a unique space where global literary voices converge with the distinctive cultural imagination of Northeast India. The 2026 edition will deepen this vital dialogue by introducing Middle Eastern and North African narratives to young audiences, students, and readers. Our fundamental aim is to build empathy, spark intellectual curiosity, and unite people through the transformative power of literature, while simultaneously portraying our region as a significant cultural hub on the world stage."
This statement underscores the festival's commitment to creating bridges between cultures and generations through literary engagement.
