When Words Ignite: A Grand Celebration at Pragjyotishpur LitFest 2025

Ah, the magic of a literary festival! Guwahati, for three vibrant days in November, truly became a beacon for wordsmiths and book lovers alike. The air, you could say, crackled with intellectual energy as the much-anticipated Pragjyotishpur LitFest (PLF) 2025 unfolded its pages, concluding with a memorable flourish on November 16th. Organized by the indefatigable North East India Art & Literature Foundation (NEIALF), this wasn't just another event; it was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring power of language and storytelling in the region.

And, honestly, at the heart of this grand culmination were two luminaries whose contributions to Assamese literature have, in truth, shaped countless minds: the venerable Moneswar Deori and the eloquent Srotashwini Tamuli. They were, without a doubt, the stars of the evening, each recognized for their profound impact, receiving accolades that celebrated not just their craft, but their very spirit.

Moneswar Deori, a name that resonates deeply within the literary circles, was bestowed with the 'Sahitya Jyoti Award.' This wasn't just for his general body of work, mind you, but specifically for his unwavering commitment to enriching Assamese literature, with a particularly tender focus on the voices of indigenous communities—think Mising, Bodo, and Rabha, among others. His celebrated novel 'Sarbani' and the poignant collection of short stories, 'Jujur Boli,' were highlighted as prime examples of his empathetic storytelling and keen insight into the human condition. He writes with a rare authenticity, a quality that makes his work timeless.

Then there was Srotashwini Tamuli, the recipient of the 'Kobi Jyoti Award'—a fitting tribute, one might say, to a poet whose verses dance between the mundane and the mystical. Her poetry, characterized by its sheer depth and evocative imagery, has graced collections like 'Adharor Prithivi' and 'Akashto Rodali.' Her words, they don't just tell stories; they paint entire worlds, inviting readers to reflect, to feel, to simply be. She possesses a unique ability to capture the fleeting beauty of life, often with a touch of profound introspection.

This magnificent three-day affair, running from November 14th to 16th, wasn't just about handing out trophies, though those moments were indeed special. It was about dialogue, discovery, and connection. Under the astute guidance of Dr. Amiya Kumar Sharma, President of NEIALF, and the dedicated efforts of Dr. Nityananda Deori, the PLF's working president, alongside Prof. Udayaditya Bharali, the secretary, the festival blossomed. It created a vital platform for discussions, readings, and —most importantly— for forging new literary pathways.

In essence, the Pragjyotishpur LitFest 2025, and particularly its moving awards ceremony, underscored a crucial point: the rich tapestry of Northeast Indian literature is not just surviving; it's thriving, bursting with diverse voices and narratives. And, truly, it reminds us all that in a world often loud with discord, the quiet, persistent power of a well-told story, or a beautifully crafted poem, remains an irreplaceable force for understanding and unity.