The vibrant Udisha Sahityotsav 2026, a five-day literary and cultural extravaganza, launched with great enthusiasm on Thursday in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. The inauguration ceremony at Dushyant Manch set the stage for this ambitious conclave, which seeks to firmly position Moradabad on India's national cultural landscape.
Star-Studded Opening Day
The opening day witnessed a significant turnout at Gandhi Ground in Buddhi Vihar, where actor and author Ashutosh Rana, serving as the chief guest, delivered an insightful address. Rana eloquently spoke about the profound connections between language, culture, and the philosophy of theatre and cinema. He emphasized the critical role that literature and performing arts play in molding social consciousness and fostering meaningful dialogue within communities.
Musical Evening with Sukhwinder Singh
The evening transformed into a spectacular star night as renowned playback singer Sukhwinder Singh took the stage. He delivered a power-packed performance, enthralling the audience with his popular and energetic numbers, creating an electrifying atmosphere at the venue.
Festival Highlights and Schedule
Running until January 26, Republic Day, Udisha Sahityotsav 2026 promises a rich tapestry of events. The festival will host a diverse array of writers, poets, musicians, theatre artists, journalists, and thinkers from across the country. The comprehensive programme includes engaging sessions on poetry, storytelling, theatre, journalism, mental health, social media, artificial intelligence, and contemporary social issues.
Each evening will feature captivating musical and cultural performances, ensuring a continuous celebration of arts. Key participants scheduled over the coming days include eminent personalities such as poet Waseem Barelvi, classical vocalist Pandit Sajan Mishra, singer-politician Manoj Tiwari, vocalist Sona Mohapatra, journalist Saurabh Dwivedi, author Chetan Bhagat, writer Akshat Gupta, the Niazi Brothers, and poet Kumar Vishwas, who will deliver the concluding address on Republic Day.
Additional Attractions
Beyond the core sessions, the festival boasts several additional attractions. Attendees can explore a dedicated book fair, art and photo galleries showcasing creative works, vibrant folk performances, a diverse food festival, and live sand art installations by the acclaimed Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik. These elements collectively enhance the cultural experience, offering something for every visitor.
Official Vision and Objectives
Moradabad commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh highlighted the event's broader objectives. He stated that Udisha Sahityotsav is meticulously organized to promote cultural dialogue and provide a significant platform for both established and emerging voices in the literary and artistic spheres. A key aim is to showcase Moradabad's rich literary and artistic heritage at a national level, thereby elevating the city's cultural profile and fostering greater appreciation for its contributions to India's cultural tapestry.
The inaugural day also featured a thoughtful discussion focusing on Moradabad's esteemed 'music gharana,' delving into its historical significance and contemporary relevance. This session underscored the festival's commitment to celebrating local traditions while engaging with national and global artistic trends.
