Shobhaa De to headline second Mizoram Literature Festival

Author and columnist Shobhaa De will headline the second edition of the two-day LEI Mizoram Literature Festival, which begins on February 27 at an iconic club in the State capital, Aizawl.

The first Mizoram Literature Festival was held in October 2024. LEI is a Mizo word meaning “bridge”.

Ms. De, widely regarded as one of India’s most prolific writers, is scheduled to deliver a keynote address titled ‘Celebrating the Word’ during the inaugural session of the festival. The organisers said this will be her first visit to Mizoram.

“The festival will bring together distinguished writers, poets, artists, and literary figures from across India, including Jerry Pinto, Damodar Mauzo, Arundhathi Subramaniam, and Rashmi Narzary,” a statement from the Mizoram government said.

Mizoram’s Minister for School, Higher, and Technical Education, Vanlalthlana, will deliver the inaugural address. The opening session will also feature remarks by Lalrintluanga Jahau, secretary of Aijal Club, and Vanlalruata Ralte, chairman of the Mizoram Literature Festival.

“Organised as a vibrant platform for literary dialogue and cultural exchange, this year’s edition promises an engaging mix of keynote addresses, panel discussions, book launches, poetry readings, and conversations exploring themes such as literature, language, identity, governance, creativity, and contemporary issues,” the statement read.