The second edition of the Auroville Literary Festival is set to conclude with a high-profile address by Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya. The minister will deliver the valedictory speech on December 21, bringing the week-long cultural extravaganza to a close.
A Festival of Languages and Literature
The festival, which commenced on December 15, has been structured around a unique language-based itinerary. This innovative format dedicates specific days to celebrating literature in different languages. The first two days were devoted entirely to Sanskrit, highlighting India's ancient literary heritage. The following two days shifted focus to the rich traditions of Tamil and French literature. The final three days of the festival are dedicated to English literature.
Distinguished Speakers and High-Profile Invitations
According to Auroville Foundation Secretary Jayanti S Ravi, who also serves as the Additional Chief Secretary of Gujarat, the festival boasts an impressive roster of speakers. The lineup includes Union ministers, prominent corporate leaders, and celebrated cultural icons. Jayanti S Ravi made this announcement in Puducherry in the presence of Chief Secretary Sharat Chauhan.
In a bid to attract top national figures, Jayanti S Ravi recently visited Delhi. During her visit, she called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and extended a formal invitation for both the literature festival and the upcoming Margazhi Utsavam celebrations. The Margazhi Utsavam is scheduled to run from December 16 to January 14. An invitation has also been sent to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, underscoring the event's significance in the cultural and educational calendar.
A Platform for Cultural Dialogue
The Auroville Literary Festival has positioned itself as a major platform for intellectual and cultural exchange in South India. By segmenting the event by language, the organizers aim to provide a deep and focused exploration of each literary tradition. The involvement of Union ministers like Mansukh Mandaviya for the closing session adds considerable prestige to the event and reflects the government's engagement with India's diverse literary landscape.
The festival's location in Auroville, the international township in Puducherry known for its ethos of human unity, provides a fitting backdrop for an event that celebrates the unifying power of words across languages. The conclusion on December 21 with Minister Mandaviya's address is anticipated to be a significant moment, drawing together the themes explored throughout the week and setting the stage for future editions.
