Banaras Literature Festival 2025 Set to Illuminate Varanasi with Cultural Splendor
The fourth edition of the Banaras Literature Festival is poised to unfold, celebrating the profound cultural heritage of Varanasi, often hailed as the spiritual and cultural capital of India. Scheduled to take place from January 30 to February 1, this prestigious event promises to be a vibrant confluence of celebrated artists, esteemed sportspersons, and renowned writers, all gathering to honor the timeless traditions of this ancient city.
A Grand Showcase of Art, Culture, and Literature
According to Deepak Madhok, President of the organizing committee, the festival has evolved significantly over the years, now serving as a dynamic platform to showcase the rich tapestry of art, culture, music, and literature intrinsic to Varanasi. "The Banaras Literature Festival will highlight the essence of our cultural capital, Varanasi, through diverse artistic expressions," Madhok emphasized. In response to overwhelming participant enthusiasm, the organizers have established six stages at the venue to host a variety of engaging activities.
The festival lineup boasts an impressive array of personalities, including:
- Actors Anupam Kher and Tisca Chopra, who will participate in insightful panel discussions.
- Renowned actor and writer Piyush Mishra, set to deliver a captivating performance with his band.
- Sportspersons such as P Gopichand, who will engage in a conversation on The Sacred Body: Sports, Discipline and Healthy Living.
- Prominent footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, addressing a dedicated session.
- MM Faruqui, known as Lilliput, contributing to a discussion titled From Comic Illustration to Cultural Responsibility: Way Ahead in AI and AR World.
Literary Excellence and Record-Breaking Initiatives
Brijesh Singh, Secretary of the organizing committee, shared exciting details about additional festival highlights. "We are embarking on an ambitious attempt to create an Asian Book Mark Record, with 50,000 bookmarks themed around the Heritage of Kashi," Singh revealed. This initiative underscores the festival's commitment to promoting literary arts and cultural preservation.
Attendees will have the privilege of witnessing discussions led by acclaimed authors, including:
- Dan Morrison
- Namita Gokhale
- Namita Devidayal
- Ashwin Sanghi
- Damodar Mauzo
- Ashok Vajpeyi
- Gagan Gill
These literary luminaries have confirmed their presence, ensuring a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Visual Arts and International Participation
Painting and photography exhibitions have been accorded a prominent space within the festival, reflecting a global artistic dialogue. Dhawal Prakash, Treasurer of the organizing committee, noted, "Beyond prominent Indian painters, we welcome artists from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Japan, and Lithuania, fostering international cultural exchange."
The visual arts segment will feature:
- Noted Indian photographer Raghu Rai, showcasing his iconic works.
- International photographers from countries such as the United States, New Zealand, France, the UK, Italy, Israel, Australia, Poland, China, and Germany, displaying their creative endeavors.
Special Tributes and Pre-Event Activities
In a heartfelt tribute, a special session will be held in memory of the legendary vocalist Pt Channulal Mishra, honoring his enduring legacy in Indian classical music. Additionally, a pre-event on January 29 will set the stage for the main festival, featuring performances by noted stand-up comedian Amit Tandon and sitar artist Deobrat Mishra, among others.
This edition of the Banaras Literature Festival not only celebrates Varanasi's heritage but also positions it as a global hub for cultural and literary discourse, promising an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
