Shabdotsav 2026: Delhi’s Literary Carnival Lights Up Dhyan Chand Stadium |

Updated: January 03, 2026 05:32

Image Source: India’s News

Delhi’s Shabdotsav 2026, a three-day cultural and literary festival themed Bharat Abhyudaya, began at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurating the ceremony. Featuring over 100 speakers, book launches, poetry sessions, and cultural performances, the event celebrates India’s journey from the Vedic age to the digital era.

The national capital is abuzz with literary energy as Shabdotsav 2026 kicked off at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium near India Gate. The festival, running from January 2 to 4, was inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, alongside Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra and Delhi’s Art & Culture Minister Kapil Mishra.

The opening ceremony began with the rendition of Vande Mataram and lamp-lighting, symbolizing the festival’s theme of Bharat Abhyudaya—India’s cultural resurgence. Addressing the gathering, CM Gupta emphasized that Shabdotsav reflects India’s dialogue with its past, present, and future, showcasing resilience through centuries of challenges while embracing modernity.

Organized by Suruchi Prakashan and Hindi Academy, the festival brings together writers, scholars, students, and artists from across the country. With participation from over 40 universities in Delhi-NCR, Shabdotsav is being hailed as one of the largest government-backed literary and cultural events in the city.

Notable Updates and Major Takeaways

Duration: January 2–4, 2026, 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Venue: Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, New Delhi.

Theme: Bharat Abhyudaya – India’s cultural and intellectual resurgence.

Speakers: Over 100 eminent voices, including NSA Ajit Doval and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan.

Events: 40+ book launches, six cultural performances, and two major poetry symposiums (Kavi Sammelans).

Participation: Students from 40+ universities actively involved.

Significance: First-of-its-kind large-scale literary festival organized on a government platform in Delhi.

Conclusion

Shabdotsav 2026 is more than a festival—it is a celebration of India’s cultural consciousness, bridging tradition and modernity. With its blend of literature, art, and intellectual discourse, the event positions Delhi as a vibrant hub for cultural dialogue and creative expression.

Sources: Central Chronicle, The Statesman, UNI India, Lokmat Times, NewKerala

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