Odisha Governor Launches SOA Literary Festival, Celebrates Javed Akhtar

The third edition of the SOA Literary Festival commenced on March 25, 2025, at the Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) University in Bhubaneswar. Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati inaugurated the event, emphasizing the transformative power of literature in shaping societal values and nurturing empathy.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Kambhampati articulated literature’s role as a foundational element of human experience, stating that societies have historically absorbed core values such as truth, justice, and compassion through storytelling prior to the establishment of formal education systems. He remarked, “Literature provides guidance to view the world from perspectives beyond our own,” highlighting its ability to foster understanding of diverse experiences.

Literature as a Mirror of Society

The Governor underscored literature’s significance during crises, describing it as a source of strength and a reflective medium for societal change. He noted that literature consistently challenges injustice and questions outdated norms, asserting, “The stories we read fundamentally shape the values by which we live.”

Addressing the festival’s theme, “Culture, Creativity and Artificial Intelligence,” Dr. Kambhampati praised its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. He stated that while technology enhances communication and creativity, it is essential to preserve cultural identity and human values. “Artificial intelligence can offer speed and accuracy, but it is culture that provides direction and purpose to creativity,” he added.

During the festival, the esteemed poet and lyricist Padma Bhushan Javed Akhtar received the SOA Literary Award 2025. In his acceptance speech, Akhtar expressed profound gratitude for the honor and encouraged younger generations to engage deeply with literature and culture, emphasizing that such exploration enriches knowledge.

A Celebration of Literature and Culture

The festival attracted a diverse group of participants, including writers, poets, scholars, and artists from across the nation. The gathering was further enriched by the presence of notable dignitaries, including former Secretary of Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Dr. K. Srinivas Rao; SOA Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda; and SOA Vice President Smt. Saswati Das.

Festival Director Prof. Gayatri Bala Panda delivered the welcome address, while SOA Dean and chief coordinator Prof. Jyoti Ranjan Das proposed the vote of thanks, highlighting the festival’s commitment to celebrating the rich tapestry of literature and its crucial role in society.

This year’s SOA Literary Festival serves not only as a platform for literary expression but also as a reminder of the importance of nurturing cultural identity in an age dominated by technological advancements. As stakeholders in literature convene, the event aims to inspire a new generation of thinkers and creators to delve into the profound world of words.