The Ghazipur Literature Festival 2025 opened today with great fervour at The Clarks Hotel in Varanasi, celebrating India’s timeless literary and cultural heritage. The three-day event, jointly organised by Bharat Express and Bharat Dialogues, was inaugurated by Bharat Express Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Upendrra Rai, who lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the beginning of the festival.

According to a press release, the festival is being held under the theme ‘Back to the Roots’, reflecting a deep connection to India’s cultural essence, Sanatan traditions, and youthful energy. The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of several eminent personalities, including Acharya Pawan Tripathi, Treasurer of Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple Trust; BJP National Spokesperson Prem Shukla; veteran actor and writer Anjan Srivastava; and numerous writers, thinkers, and artists from across India and abroad.

As the Chief Patron of the festival, Upendrra Rai, in his address, reflected on the deep cultural legacy of Ghazipur, calling it a “land of knowledge, meditation, and culture.” He added, “Ghazipur is not to be placed in any category — A, B, C, or D. It’s the place where the Ganga changes her course, guiding India’s consciousness for centuries.”

Speaking about the essence of literature, Rai said, “Literature is the expression of truth, beauty, and benevolence. It’s not confined to books alone but mirrors our culture and society.” Urging the youth to reconnect with their roots, he remarked, “Today’s young generation is healthier, safer, and more aware than ever before. They only need the right direction. Even platforms like Instagram and Facebook are filled with powerful literary content — one just needs the eye to see it.”

Touching upon the endurance of Indian literature, he said, “Our literature has withstood centuries of invasions, yet its roots remain unshaken. The Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of the blend of science and spirituality. Hinduism shows the path to salvation.” He also paid tribute to Ghazipur’s literary legends such as Kubernath Rai, Viveki Rai, Bhoola Rai ‘Rajavadi’, and Rahi Masoom Raza, and remembered heroes like Param Vir Chakra awardee Abdul Hamid and saint Pavhari Baba.

Expressing his views on education, Rai observed, “For the past century, we’ve been imparting information-based education that provides employment but not enlightenment. With a guru’s grace, one must cleanse the mind and become like a blank page.” Quoting Guru Nanak Dev’s story of milk and leaf, he emphasised the importance of humility and learning.

Rai concluded his address with an inspiring message: “Where everything becomes certain, the soul’s growth stops. Life must have challenges and uncertainty — that’s where evolution begins.”

The opening ceremony saw attendance from several dignitaries including the High Commissioner of South Africa, author Neerja Madhav, poet Vyomesh Shukla, Bhojpuri writer Manoj Bhawuk, C-Voter founder Yashwant Deshmukh, BHU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ajit Chaturvedi, and Padma Shri Dr. Rajeshwar Acharya.

Commending Rai’s efforts, BJP’s Prem Shukla said, “Mr. Rai is the proud son of Ghazipur. This festival is a true inspiration for the youth. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes that connecting youth with literature is vital for India’s future.”

The Ghazipur Literature Festival, continuing in Ghazipur from November 8–9, will feature over 50 sessions, cultural performances, a book fair, and a Girmitiya segment celebrating the global influence of Hindi literature. Thousands of young readers, students, and literary enthusiasts are expected to join the festival, which stands as a vibrant tribute to India’s literary roots and cultural spirit.