GUWAHATI: The Delhi prelude of the Shillong Literary Festival 2026 concluded on Friday at Bikaner House after two days of discussions centred on literature, identity, ecology and the cultural landscape of Northeast India.
Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, the event brought together noted writers, filmmakers, journalists and artists ahead of the sixth edition of the festival scheduled to be held in Shillong in November.
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, author Shobhaa De, writer Namita Gokhale and journalist Shekhar Gupta were among the prominent names who participated in conversations around storytelling, regional narratives and the importance of literary spaces.
Sessions during the two-day event explored themes ranging from Northeast literature and indigenous food traditions to ecology, oral storytelling and youth aspirations. Former footballer Eugeneson Lyngdoh also spoke about sports and opportunities for young people in Meghalaya.
The festival additionally featured cultural performances under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program, reflecting the state’s emphasis on promoting local artistic talent.
The main edition of the Shillong Literary Festival 2026 will be held at Wards Lake from November 12 to 14.