The second edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival (KLF) was held on the 11th and 12th of October, 2025, at the picturesque Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, nestled between the serene Dal Lake and the majestic Zabarwan ranges. Organized by the Srikula Foundation, the festival once again transformed Srinagar into a vibrant confluence of ideas, art, and dialogue—affirming its growing stature as one of the most significant literary gatherings in the region.
Building on the success of its maiden edition held in December 2024, KLF 2025 showcased an expanded vision and deeper purpose. From its inception, the Kashmir Literature Festival has aimed to create a world-class platform that celebrates literature, culture, and the power of knowledge. It is a flagship initiative under the Srikula Foundation, which believes in empowerment through knowledge and envisions Kashmir as “The Powerhouse of Wisdom.”
A Festival of Ideas, Art, and Culture
The two-day event witnessed participation from an impressive lineup of writers, poets, academics, journalists, artists, and thinkers from across India and beyond. This year’s edition was organized in partnership with Rising Kashmir as the media partner, and with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, J&K Bank, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar, Mewar University, SABRE & QUILL, and AGGREGATE as associate and session partners.
With more than 50 sessions, multiple book launches, keynote addresses, open mic events, and cultural performances, the festival once again proved to be an inspiring platform for dialogue and exchange.
The opening ceremony was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha ji, who emphasized the crucial role of literature in shaping society and preserving its moral and cultural compass.
Lieutenant Governor’s Address: Reclaiming Authentic Narratives
In his inaugural address, LG Manoj Sinha spoke passionately about the responsibility of writers and historians to correct misleading and distorted historical narratives about Jammu and Kashmir. He called upon the literary community to embrace truth, research, and factual accuracy as tools to counter the manipulated versions of history propagated during the colonial and post-independence eras.
“For decades, a manipulated narrative was propagated here in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. “Writers and media figures grudgingly admit that, out of fear of terrorists and their ecosystem, they were forced to promote narratives pushed from across the border. That ecosystem has been dismantled, and now is the time to present the true narrative of Jammu and Kashmir—free from all bias and fear—to strengthen trust and accelerate socio-economic growth.”
The Lieutenant Governor further encouraged authors to offer fresh perspectives and new visions that address modern challenges and opportunities while deepening understanding of nature, culture, and the well-being of the people. His words resonated deeply with the audience and set a powerful tone for the rest of the festival.
Distinguished Voices and Diverse Dialogues
The 2025 edition featured an illustrious lineup of speakers and panelists who brought a range of insights across disciplines—literature, military strategy, culture, education, and social thought. Among the notable names were Lt. Gen. D.P. Pandey (Retd.), Rami Desai, Kanchan Gupta, Col. Ajay Raina, Adv Jehanzeb Allaqaband,Prof. Khurshid Andrabi, Brigadier Sushil Tanwar, Vijay Dhar, Shiv Kunal Verma, Neerja Mattoo, Manu Khajuria, Rouble Nagi, Aarti Tikoo, Abhijeet Iyer-Mitra, Dr. Monika Gupta, Lt. Col. J.S. Sodhi, Gurunatha Moksha, Damini Punia, Raj Razdan, Aadya Das ,Khwaja Farooq Renzu Shah, Chandrachur Ghose, Arindam Mukherjee, Yoginder Kandhari, Tehmeena Rizvi, Haroon Imtiyaz, Jai Samota, and others.
Each session reflected the festival’s interdisciplinary spirit and its commitment to encouraging open, respectful dialogue. The discussions spanned a wide array of subjects—from geopolitics and environment to art, gender, and technology—bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary thought.
Engaging Sessions, Book Launches, and Cultural Harmony
The festival opened with an elegant Bharatanatyam performance by renowned artists Aishwarya Attri and Nandana Moulick, setting a serene yet powerful tone.
Day 1 featured compelling discussions on:
• “What Is in Store for Kashmir”
• “Kashmir on a Global Chessboard”
• “Man vs. Nature”
• “Contours of the Greater Game and China’s War Clouds”
• “Shine of the Feminine”
• “Narrative of Kashmir”
• “The Meaning of Empowerment”
• “Challenges of the East.”
The highlight of the day was a series of book discussions and launches that drew enthusiastic audiences.
One of the most notable sessions was on “Soldiering with Passion” and “Reflections on Strategy,” featuring Lt. Gen. D.P. Pandey and Col. Ajay Raina, who offered a deep exploration of leadership, courage, and life lessons from the Indian Army.
Another powerful discussion, “Contours of the Greater Game & China’s War Clouds,” brought together Col. J.S. Sodhi and Arindam Mukherjee, who analyzed the evolving dynamics of Asian geopolitics.
The book session on “Mountain Goddesses” by Manu Khajuria celebrated feminine resilience, identity, and the spiritual relationship between women and the mountains of the Himalayas.
Young author Aadya Das, with her book “Starlight Dreams” and “Twilight Tales,” represented the fresh, creative voice of India’s new generation of storytellers.
The discussion on “Major Shaitan Singh PVC,” “Rifleman Aurangzeb,” and “Leading from the Front” featured Jai Samota, Damini Punia, and Col. Ajay Raina, highlighting stories of valor and sacrifice that continue to inspire a sense of patriotism and duty.
The first day concluded with a mesmerizing Sufi musical performance by Noor Mohammad, whose soulful voice echoed the spiritual essence of Kashmir.
Day 2 of the festival continued the momentum with intellectually rich sessions on:
• “Artist vs. AI: Why Machines Will Never Be Creative”
• “Asian Century”
• “Op Sindoor”
• “Wars Outside the Battlefield”
• “Decentralization of Media”
• “The Role of Education Today.”
The closing ceremony witnessed a captivating performance by Masrat Un Nissa, the enchanting voice behind “Song of Paradise.” Her performance brought the two-day festival to an emotional and celebratory close.
Youth Participation and Community Spirit
What made KLF 2025 particularly inspiring was the active participation of young voices. Students from schools, colleges, and universities across Jammu & Kashmir presented their writings, performances, and perspectives. The festival served as a training ground for the next generation of writers and thinkers, fostering an environment of creativity and learning.
Driven by passionate youth volunteers, KLF reflects a new confidence emerging in the Valley—a movement that seeks to revive Kashmir’s intellectual traditions and project them onto the global stage.
A Platform for Cultural Renaissance
Beyond its literary grandeur, KLF 2025 was a celebration of identity and coexistence. It reminded the world that Kashmir’s true legacy lies not just in its natural beauty but in its culture, art, and intellect.
The festival’s scenic backdrop—Dal Lake shimmering beside the SKICC and the Zabarwan peaks towering above—created an atmosphere of peace and reflection that elevated every conversation. Each session, performance, and dialogue became a part of a collective effort to reclaim Kashmir’s cultural and intellectual narrative.
Through its collaborations and partnerships, the festival also strengthened connections between creative communities, academic institutions, and civil society—ensuring that its impact continues throughout the year.
The Road Ahead
The remarkable success of the 2025 edition has cemented the Kashmir Literature Festival’s place as a cornerstone of contemporary cultural life in Jammu & Kashmir. With its inclusive approach and emphasis on truth, creativity, and knowledge, KLF is paving the way for Srinagar to emerge as a global hub of literature and learning.
As it grows each year, the festival stands as a beacon of intellectual freedom and artistic expression—bridging communities and reminding the world that Kashmir’s strength lies in its wisdom, not its wounds.
Conclusion
As the curtains fell on the 2025 Kashmir Literature Festival, the atmosphere at SKICC was filled with inspiration and pride. The festival had once again proven that words have the power to heal, unite, and transform.
In its second edition, KLF has not only celebrated creativity but has also rekindled the spirit of knowledge that has always defined Kashmir’s soul. The day is not far when the Valley will be remembered again for its literature, heritage, and culture—symbols of a civilization that continues to inspire the world.
Adv. Jehanzeb Allaqaband
Organising Committee Member – Kashmir Literature Festival
Social Activist | Youth Leader | Advocate
Email:Jehanzeballaqaban7@gmail.com
