Shillong, Nov 20: The tranquil beauty of Ward’s Lake became a vibrant hub of intellectual and cultural exchange on the concluding day of the Shillong Literary Festival. A notable highlight was an engaging conversation with Turkish Ambassador and acclaimed novelist Fırat Sunel. The diplomat captivated the audience with his insights into the historical ties between India and Turkey, weaving parallels with themes from his novel, The Lighthouse Family. The book delves into cultural connections and the emotional aftermath of population exchanges, resonating deeply with the festival’s spirit of shared narratives.
Ambassador Sunel’s participation was more than a celebration of literature; it underscored the festival’s growing international appeal. His reflections added a global dimension to the event, cementing Shillong’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures and ideas.
Tourism’s Star Moment
Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh, Meghalaya’s Secretary of Tourism, beamed with pride as he highlighted the festival’s success. “This year’s turnout has been incredible,” he said, noting that The Times of India reported a staggering 6,000 attendees on the second day alone. He credited the festival’s inclusive atmosphere and free entry for students for its popularity, calling it “a true blend of locals and tourists sharing the joy of literature.”
But it wasn’t just the written word that stole the show. As the city prepares for a performance by legendary musician Bryan Adams, Diengdoh remarked, “Shillong’s love for music amplifies its charm. Events like these highlight our city’s unique vibe and bring in music lovers from across the country.”
Tourism Boom: From Cherry Blossoms to Literary Delights
Diengdoh shared that the state’s tourism strategy is less about chasing numbers and more about creating meaningful experiences. Last year’s Cherry Blossom Festival drew 25,000 visitors on its first day; this year, that number doubled to over 50,000. “These events are not just about visitors; they directly uplift local livelihoods—be it stall owners, taxi drivers, or hoteliers,” he noted.
The literary festival mirrors this ethos, fostering a community-focused approach while attracting global attention.
Inspiring Meghalaya’s Youth
A significant aim of the festival is to nurture a love for literature among young minds. “We want our youth to document Meghalaya’s rich culture and history,” Diengdoh said. Collaborations with institutions like NEHU and MLCU have enhanced the event’s scope, offering budding writers a stage to grow and aspire.
Quoting Vikram Seth, he added, “Reading is the foundation of writing. If you don’t read, you can’t write. We hope this message inspires the next generation to preserve our heritage through storytelling.”
Setting New Benchmarks
The Shillong Literary Festival has become more than an annual event—it’s a movement, blending cultural enrichment with tourism and leaving an indelible mark on the region. As the festival concluded under the golden light of Ward’s Lake, it symbolized Shillong’s evolving narrative: a city that celebrates its roots while reaching for global horizons.
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