Set towards the shimmering waters of Ward’s Lake, the Shillong Literature Festival (November 20-22, 2025) returns for its fifth version, bringing collectively voices, verses, and visions from the world over. In the crisp November air, the pageant unfolds like a dialog between Shillong and the broader literary world.
Since its inception in 2021, the pageant has grow to be one of many Northeast’s most anticipated cultural gatherings, providing a deep dive into the minds of writers, thinkers, and artists from Meghalaya and past. This yr’s lineup consists of (*3*) writer Francesc Miralles, filmmaker Rajat Kapoor, and Booker Prize successful Sri Lankan writer Shehan Karunatilaka, amongst many others. Programs span from stay poetry readings and performances to reflective discussions that blur the road between storytelling and lived expertise.
Highlights embrace The Whispering Mountains, a session combining stay drawing by Dennis Laishram, readings by Valden John Pariat, and conversations on Himalayan folklore; Poetry Echoing by means of the Garo Hills, that includes poets like Prince S.R. Marak and Sengsime A. Sangma; and South Asian Literature in World Literature, a dialogue between Shehan Karunatilaka, Jerry Pinto, and Kanishka Gupta on how the area’s writing is discovering new audiences. The first day ends with Nothing Like Lear, a shifting solo act by Vinay Pathak, directed by Rajat Kapoor. The pageant closes on a lyrical notice with If Music Be The Food Of Love: British Songs in India: a efficiency by British baritone Alex Poulton, who takes the viewers on a journey by means of the historical past of English songs, interwoven with readings, violin, and piano.
Beyond the phrases, the pageant’s lakeside lawns buzz with stay performances and meals stalls serving native delicacies, giving guests a style of Meghalaya’s wealthy culinary and artistic scene.
Where to binge, sip and savour Shillong’s flavours
Rynsan
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Prawn Shynrai at RynsanSankirang Khongwir