Kalinga, the ancient kingdom name of present-day Odisha, stands as a glorious chapter in the history of India and the world. Renowned for its excellence in art, craft, culture, and literature, Kalinga thrived in maritime trade, disseminating both culture and agriculture beyond the shores of the Indian subcontinent.
In the face of numerous challenges, modern Odisha is poised to emerge as a leading state in India, characterized by economic growth and abundant opportunities for the youth and future generations. This juncture presents a unique opportunity to bridge the past, present, and future, with literature serving as the most potent force connecting a storied history, a dynamic present filled with immense possibilities, and a future brimming with prosperity and hope.
Globally recognized for a tradition dating back more than 2000 years, the Odia language and literature have gained acclaim since Odia became the sixth classical language and Bhubaneswar attained prominence in the Smart City Project. Seizing this opportune moment, Odisha Media Info Service (OMIS) Private Ltd and Odisha Diary Foundation (ODF) will organize the 10th Edition of the Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) on February 9, 10, and 11, 2024.
This festival aims to celebrate the creative spirit of Bhubaneswar as a Smart City as well as Temple City and honour the rich literary diversity it offers. The event will facilitate conversations between prominent literary figures within and outside of Odisha and India, bringing together academics, authors, political and social activists, lawmakers, government officials, corporate leaders, students, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Eminent literary and film personalities are scheduled to attend, adding further prestige to the occasion.
Over the years, KLF has evolved into an annual flagship event in Odisha’s cultural calendar, with a primary focus on rekindling romance with literature and nurturing reading and writing habits, especially among the youth. Serving as a national platform with global appeal, KLF bridges the gap between literature in English and other Indian regional languages.
Acknowledging the crucial role of other platforms, organizations, and media houses in hosting similar festivals across India, KLF actively participates in different literature festivals, fostering mutual learning and strengthening networks among established literary figures and emerging talents. The festival promises an aesthetically and intellectually enlightening experience, featuring a diverse blend of celebrity authors, thinkers, cine-world luminaries, and inspiring debates to nourish creativity and critical thinking.
In a world where our journey transcends material needs, literature emerges as a guardian of our soul, conscience, and mind, addressing non-material and intangible needs and aspirations such as fulfilment, love, immortality, admiration, and emotional succour in times of trouble, distress, and failure.