DUILF 2025: Bridging Continents, Cultures, and Creative Minds in Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, Feb 9: The second edition of the Dibrugarh University International Literature Festival (DUILF) concluded on a high note, establishing itself as a transformative literary event in Northeast India. With over 120 acclaimed authors from 23 countries, the festival spotlighted cross-continental dialogue, cultural diversity, and intellectual exploration.

Themed around Africa, the four-day event featured celebrated Guinea-Bisauan author Abdulai Sila, who expressed admiration for the vibrant India-Africa connection. “We have special feelings about Indians. There are Indians everywhere in Africa,” Sila remarked, appreciating Dibrugarh University students for their curiosity about African literature. The event concluded on February 8.

UK author Ann Morgan, returning for the second consecutive year, praised the festival as a “truly international” event, emphasizing the rare inclusivity she witnessed.

A riveting mix of sessions explored literature’s intersection with politics, security, and linguistic preservation. Turkish diplomat-author Firat Sunel and Uzbek writer Hamid Ismailov joined South African novelist Shubnum Khan for a thought-provoking discussion on “The Angst of Writers Across Continents,” delving into themes of cultural displacement and creative resilience.

The festival’s military literature focus, featuring Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Konsam Himalay Singh and Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Rana Pratap Kalita, drew over 2,000 attendees, offering unique perspectives on leadership and conflict.

A session on endangered languages led by renowned linguist Gaston Dorren and Assamese literary icon Kuladhar Saikia sparked the announcement of a major translation initiative to preserve the region’s linguistic heritage.

Distinguished filmmaker Jahnu Barua paid tribute to Shyam Benegal, discussing the evolution of regional storytelling. Former police chiefs Jayanto Narayan Choudhury and Meeran Chadha Borwankar delved into the intricate balance between creative freedom and national security.

Beyond discussions, dazzling performances captivated audiences—a spellbinding Sattriya dance by Usharani Baishya, fusion music by African and Dibrugarh students, and a vibrant Bihu performance.

FOCAL trustee Kalyan Chakravarty highlighted the festival’s uniqueness: “Perhaps it’s the only university hosting a literature festival at this scale.” He also noted Assam’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Reading, promising continued literary promotion.

As the curtains fell, Vice-Chancellor Jiten Hazarika lauded the festival’s success in positioning Dibrugarh University on the global literary map. “DUILF 2025 has exceeded expectations, fostering a sustainable model for promoting regional literature and international cultural exchange,” he stated.

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