A two-day celebration of poetry, prose and inclusivity brings together writers from India and Bangladesh
Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,December 1, 2025, Kolkata : The Thirteenth Annual Literary and Cultural Festival 2025, organised by the Little Magazine Forum, unfolded with great enthusiasm on 29 November 2025 at the Ektān Mancha of the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC). The inauguration was conducted by the eminent linguist Pavitra Sarkar, who ceremonially offered flowers in a water pot in accordance with tradition. He was joined by noted playwright Soumitra Basu, Dr Ashish Kanti Hira, Forum President Kamal De Sikder, and Editor Pinaki Basu. Ashish Giri, Director of the Eastern Cultural Centre under the Government of India, was also present on the occasion.
In their addresses, the distinguished guests shared insightful reflections on the evolution of literature and culture, illuminating the diverse ways in which the past, present and future intersect in contemporary literary discourse. Their observations set an intellectually vibrant tone for the festival.
The two-day event, held on 29 and 30 November, showcased the work of around 365 poets from various parts of India as well as neighbouring Bangladesh, transforming the gathering into a truly expansive literary celebration. Nearly 90 members of the Forum contributed—both directly and indirectly—to the successful organisation of the festival.
To commemorate the occasion, a souvenir publication featuring poems, short stories, essays and other literary works by participating authors was released. The festival grounds were marked by palpable excitement, drawing writers, poets and a wide cross-section of the public who came to engage with and celebrate diverse creative voices.
A particularly notable highlight of this year’s festival was the participation of several visually impaired poets, whose inclusion underscored the Forum’s commitment to accessibility and its dedication to fostering an inclusive cultural environment. Their involvement set a meaningful example for wider representation of persons with disabilities in the literary and cultural spheres.
The Thirteenth Annual Literary and Cultural Festival thus stood not only as a celebration of artistic expression but also as an affirmation of the shared cultural spirit that connects communities across regions and abilities.