Welcome to the vibrant panorama of literary and cultural brilliance in India! As we step into 2024, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of words at the country’s most celebrated literary festivals. These events epitomize literature’s richness, captivating global audiences with India’s cultural hues.

Join us on a journey as we showcase five must-attend festivals, promising an immersive celebration of storytelling that transcends borders. Literary Festivals, where readers and writers unite, here are the 5 best to light up your new year:

1. Kerala Literature Festival

The 7th edition of the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) at Kozhikode beach on 11th of January promises a vibrant celebration of literature and culture. With Turkey as the guest country of honour and participants from around the world, the festival will feature 500 speakers/authors, nearly 200 sessions, and cultural programs. The UNESCO ‘City of Literature’ tag adds prestige to Kozhikode, creating a unique literary landscape with the participation of countries like the UK, Wales, Spain, Japan, USA, Malaysia, and France. Fireside chats, rock bands, fusion nights, and concerts further enrich the experience.

When: 11-14 January, 2024

Where: Kozhikode Beach, Kerala

2. Jaipur Literature Festival

The 17th Jaipur Literature Festival 2024, focuses on ‘art and culture’. Tribute sessions include Raja Ravi Verma’s genius and an exploration of Leonardo da Vinci’s diverse talents by Luke Syson. Highlights feature Tarun Tahiliani, Kelly Dorji, and Shubhra Gupta. Don’t miss Sharmistha Mukherjee’s anecdotes, Kai Bird’s Oppenheimer biography, and Rakhshanda Jalil and Gulzar discussing poetry. It’s a dynamic celebration of literature and creativity!

When: 1-5 February, 2024

Where: Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan

3. Kolkata Literary Meet

The Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet 2024 on January 23 at Victoria Memorial Hall features Nobel laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah, authors Murthy, Boyne, Faulks, and Ashok Ferrey. Speakers include Tarun Tahiliani, Prahlad Kakar, Gurcharan Das, discussions with Amitav Ghosh and Kazi Ashraf. Highlights: women in art, Junior Literary Meet, ‘Ismat Apa Ke Naam’, and Shubha Mudgal’s finale. Young authors Janice Pariat and Radhika Iyengar, Sukumar Ray’s centenary, and a Kerala focus with KR Meera and AJ Thomas promise a literary extravaganza in its 12th edition.

When: January 23-27, 2024

Where: Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata, West Bengal

4. Hyderabad Literary Festival

The 24th Hyderabad Literary Festival at Sattva Knowledge City will showcase Odia as well as Norwegian literature, featuring award-winning writers and artists. The diverse program includes talks, panels, screenings, performances, and workshops, catering to students and children for a vibrant celebration of literature and the arts.

When: 26- 28 January, 2024

Where: Sattva Knowledge City, Hyderabad, Telangana

5. Kalinga Literary Festival

The 10th Kalinga Literary Festival in Bhubaneswar, from February 9 to 11, 2024, explores ‘Legends of Ancient Bharat and Beyond.’ With 300 speakers like Bibek Debroy, Amish Tripathi, Sitakanta Mohapatra, and Pratibha Ray, the event delves into themes like literature and liberty, cultural diversity, and more. Activities include ‘Mystic Walk,’ ‘Mystic Mic,’ and the Kalinga Art Festival.

When: 9-11 February 2024

Where: Bhubaneswar, Odisha