25-10-2025 : Hon’ble Governor inaugurated the 9th edition of the Valley of Words International Literature and Art Festival at Hotel Madhuban on Saturday
Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd.) inaugurated the 9th edition of the Valley of Words International Literature and Art Festival at Hotel Madhuban on Saturday. The two-day festival brings together eminent writers, authors, artists, and thinkers from India and abroad, who will share their insights and experiences through various sessions.
The event commenced with a soulful presentation titled “Shabd Vani” dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy.
In his inaugural address, the Governor said that such festivals serve as strong platforms for dialogue, thought exchange, and creative expression. He noted that through Valley of Words, Uttarakhand’s rich art, culture, and literary heritage are gaining national and international recognition.
The Governor highlighted that in recent years, Dehradun has witnessed a significant rise in literary, artistic, and cultural activities, helping the state carve a distinct identity at the national level. He appreciated the organizers for their vision and creativity in providing intellectually stimulating sessions for the youth.
He further remarked that literature is a reflection of our cultural legacy and guides the intellectual direction of the nation and society. He emphasized the need to nurture awareness, sensitivity, and creativity among children and youth toward literature and the arts. Through literature, he said, it is essential to illuminate our national heritage, history, and culture.
The Governor congratulated the organizers of Valley of Words for successfully hosting the festival and expressed confidence that the deliberations and discussions held on this platform would prove beneficial to society.
During the event, Festival Director Dr. Sanjeev Chopra briefed about the festival’s structure and objectives. The event was also attended by former MP Tarun Bansal, Shri Narinderjit Singh Bindra, Chairman of the Shri Hemkunt Sahib Management Trust, P.J.S. Pannu, Dr. Rajendra Dobhal, K.B.S. Sidhu, Anoop Nautiyal and several writers, poets, thinkers, literature enthusiasts.