This year, the festival will launch Lead@VoW, an initiative to connect young minds with institutions in Dehradun, providing them with exposure to India’s scientific, environmental sectors
New Delhi: The eighth edition of the Valley of Words (VoW) Literary Festival promises a celebration of creativity, knowledge, and artistic expression. With its enduring focus on pivotal works in both Hindi and English literature, poetry, and performing arts, VoW 2024, to be held on over 16 and 17 November, introduces new initiatives to broaden its appeal to younger audiences.
This year, the festival will showcase 75 authors in 50 sessions spanning various genres and themes. There will be 12 book launches, four candid conversations, and six exhibitions. The festival will honour literary excellence with the prestigious VoW REC Awards, recognising standout contributions in diverse categories such as English and Hindi fiction, non-fiction, translations, and children’s literature.
Among the awardees are Smriti Ravindra for The Woman Who Climbed Trees in English Fiction; Manoj Mitta for Caste Pride: Battles for Equality in Hindu India in English Non-Fiction; Uday Prakash for Antim Nimbu in Hindi Fiction; Dr Suresh Pant for Shabdon Ke Sath Sath in Hindi Non-Fiction; Shabnam Minwalla for Zen in Writing for Young Adults; Vibha Batra for The Chhau Champ in Writings/Picture Books for Children; Subhash Neerav for Ambar Pariyaan in Hindi Translation; and Anjum Katyal for Truth/Untruth in English Translation.
Valley of Words also tackles contemporary issues through its flagship events, and Candid Conversations. These discussions will delve into topics such as the Uniform Civil Code, migration, and the future of print media, fostering nuanced debates among thought leaders and experts.
A notable new feature is Lead@VoW—an initiative designed to connect young minds with prestigious institutions in Dehradun. Selected students will explore career pathways by visiting key establishments, like the Forest Research Institute and the Wildlife Institute of India, providing them with exposure to India’s scientific and environmental sectors.
Over the years, the festival has grown into a vital cultural and intellectual hub, attracting participants from universities, schools, and communities. It continues to diversify with initiatives like Iti Natya and Iti Nritya, which showcase classical and fusion dance performances. Curated by Shalini Rao, Iti Nritya will highlight India’s classical dance traditions, featuring renowned artists such as Kirti Kurande (Kathak), Ratri Manik (Manipuri), and Sandip Kundu (Kuchipudi). Meanwhile, Iti Natya—in partnership with Young Indians of CII—will present a special production of Abhigyan Shakuntalam, performed by school students.
VoW 2024 offers something for every age group. Schoolchildren can engage in interactive activities like Lead@VoW and participate in exhibitions and sessions on antiques. College students will enjoy workshops and discussions that explore the intersections of literature, culture, and society. Designed to be inclusive, the festival’s programme ensures a rich variety of events for all attendees.
With its compelling blend of high-calibre content, diverse perspectives, and innovative programming, VoW 2024 is set to be an unforgettable literary experience. Whether you’re a passionate reader, an aspiring student, or someone keen on exploring the most pressing social issues of our time, this year’s festival offers a unique and enriching journey. As it continues to evolve, VoW’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a vibrant literary and cultural ecosystem in India remains at its core.
ThePrint is the digital media partner for the Valley of Words Literary Festival.
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