Discover the Magic of Reading: Chinar book festival Srinagar

The preservation of our traditional wisdom is not just a duty but a vibrant way to inspire and connect generations. The second Chinar Book Festival, held from August 2-10, 2025, at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, embodied this spirit by celebrating the power of books and the richness of Kashmiri culture. Organized by the National Book Trust of India, the festival brought together over 200 publishers, authors, and readers, creating a dynamic platform for literary exchange.Inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the event highlighted the enduring value of literature in shaping minds and preserving heritage. In his captivating speech, Lieutenant Governor Sinha emphasized India’s historical role as a global center of knowledge, where literature, science, and spirituality flourished. He called for a renewed focus on authentic historical narratives, urging writers to correct past misrepresentations and integrate India’s ancient wisdom into modern education. Sinha also advocated for the promotion of regional languages like Kashmiri, Dogri, and Urdu, encouraging their translation to ensure broader accessibility. His words resonated deeply, inspiring attendees to reconnect with their cultural roots through the written word.The festival was more than a literary gathering; it was a celebration of connection and inspiration. Events like the Rajtarangini Samvad and the exhibition on the Sharda script showcased Kashmir’s profound literary legacy, while the Tamil-Kashmiri Samvad under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative fostered cultural unity. For students, educators, and book enthusiasts, the festival offered a chance to engage with diverse ideas, forge new friendships, and find inspiration in shared stories.The Chinar Book Festival, enriched by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s vision, reminded us that books are not just sources of knowledge but bridges to our past and future. Such events are essential for nurturing critical thinking and cultural pride. I hope Kashmir continues to host more initiatives like this, sparking a love for literature and preserving our timeless traditions for generations to come.