The Jaipur Literature Festival, the world’s largest literary event, is set to mark its 18th edition from January 30 to February 3, 2025. During a recent press conference, Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, shared exciting insights about this year’s themes and events.
“This year, the festival will focus on the special theme of crime fiction, with notable writers from the genre participating. Additionally, poetry remains an integral part of the program,” Roy said.
One of the key highlights of the festival is the prestigious Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Award for Poetry, which will honor eminent Hindi poet Badri Narayan. Known for his evocative poetry infused with folk imagery and profound social insights, Narayan is also a celebrated social scientist and public intellectual. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2022 for his collection Tumdi ke Shabd.
The 2025 edition will also explore the theme “Fractured World,” with sessions addressing current geopolitics, war and conflict, alongside topics like theatre, dance, music, cinema, sports, food, and climate change.
Festival Co-Director and award-winning historian William Dalrymple described the event as “a global platform bringing together some of the most influential voices from around the world.” He added, “This year’s lineup features over 600 luminaries, including Nobel laureates, Booker Prize, Pulitzer, and Sahitya Akademi winners, policymakers, and renowned writers.”
Speakers confirmed for this year include prominent names such as economist Abhijit Banerjee, diplomat Amitabh Kant, author Andrew O’Hagan, actor Amol Palekar, writer Geetanjali Shree, activist Kailash Satyarthi, and many others. The eclectic mix spans fields as diverse as literature, arts, culture, and social issues.
Sanjoy K. Roy praised Jaipur and its residents for their unwavering support over the years. “The festival has grown into a vibrant celebration of ideas and stories, made possible by the spirit and enthusiasm of Jaipur and its citizens,” he said.
With its stellar lineup and diverse themes, the 18th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival promises to continue its legacy as a beacon for creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
(ANI)