Two-day “Echoes of North East” festival inaugurated at Gauhati University

Guwahati, February 6, 2026: A two-day literary and cultural festival, ‘Echoes of North East,’ was inaugurated on Friday in Gauhati University. The festival is being organised by Prabha Khaitan Foundation and Oil India Limited in collaboration with the University, with the objective of showcasing and bringing together the rich literature and culture of North East India.

The festival was inaugurated with an address by the Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University, Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta. In his inaugural speech, he observed that the literature and culture of North East India reflect the folk life, history, beliefs and creativity shaped over generations. Prof. Mahanta noted that these traditions enrich and broaden India’s cultural identity. Emphasising the significance of such initiatives, he stated that festivals of this nature bring together the creative talents of the region and inspire the younger generation to remain connected with society.

A special address was delivered by former President of Assam Sahitya Sabha and Sahitya Akademi Award recipient Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bora, who spoke on the literary and cultural heritage of North East India and highlighted the depth and diversity of its traditions.

 

The first day of the festival featured a series of lecture sessions titled “Women’s Voices in North Eastern Indian Literature,” “North East Literature in English,” “Necessity of Mother Tongue,” and “Hills That Speak: Nature as Voice in North-East Poetry – Poets’ Meet.” The sessions were moderated by Assistant Professor Dr. Dhurjjati Sarma.

Among those present on the occasion were eminent writer Prof. Pradip Jyoti Mahanta, Registrar of Gauhati University Prof. Utpal Sarma, Senior Advisor of Prabha Khaitan Foundation Dr. K. Sreenivasarao, and Ms. Anindita Chatterjee. The programme was also attended by eminent writers, professors and academicians, research scholars, students and literature enthusiasts.

The first day concluded with a cultural programme that showcased the diverse artistic expressions of the region, adding a vibrant close to the proceedings on the first day of the event. The festival will continue on Saturday with further literary discussions, readings and cultural interactions celebrating the voices and traditions of North East India.