Governor Inaugurates Puri Literary Festival 2025

Puri:Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati inaugurated the Puri Literary Festival 2025 today, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity in a rapidly changing world.

Addressing a gathering at the holy town of Puri, the Governor said, “While technology and global influences are transforming our lives, it is crucial to remain connected to our cultural roots.” He praised the festival as a platform that celebrates both India’s rich heritage and its forward-looking aspirations.

Describing Puri as a city that embodies the soul of India’s age-old traditions, Dr. Kambhampati invoked the concept of Samavaya, or harmonious coexistence, to stress how tradition and modern ideas can grow together. “The Puri Literary Festival does not treat our culture as something of the past. Instead, it brings it to life and shows how it can guide us even today,” he noted.

He lauded the festival for drawing a diverse audience—ranging from authors and artists to thinkers and youth—reflecting a blend of creativity and continuity. “This shows that we are not leaving our past behind. We are including it in our journey forward,” he added.

Touching on India’s evolving global presence, the Governor said progress must be rooted not only in innovation and policy but also in values like diversity, respectful dialogue, and dignity. “Ancient wisdom and modern ideas do not need to clash—they can work together,” he said.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also extended his best wishes to the festival via a video message, commending the organisers and participants for their efforts in promoting literature and culture.

Puri MP Sambit Patra, addressing the audience, said every word spoken at the event would contribute to enriching the nation’s literary and cultural heritage. President of the Puri Literary Festival, Om Priyadarshi Chhotray, also shared his thoughts during the inaugural session.

The three-day festival is set to feature panel discussions, literary sessions, art exhibitions, and cultural performances, attracting literary minds and enthusiasts from across the country.