The Banaras Lit Fest brought together writers, artists, and students at the SPPU campus for a day of immersive literary celebration. It highlighted storytelling’s profound role in shaping culture, identity, and collective imagination.
Against the green expanse of the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) campus, the Banaras Lit Fest unfolded like a tapestry of words and ideas. Co-hosted by the Priyadarshani Group of Schools, this literary gathering wasn’t merely an event—it was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring power of literature and storytelling.
The day began with addresses from two distinguished guests: actor Yashpal Sharma, celebrated for his contributions to film and theatre, and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi of SPPU. Sharma spoke passionately about the role of storytelling in shaping how we see ourselves and our communities, reminding everyone that stories are more than entertainment—they can heal, transform, and unite. Dr. Gosavi emphasized literature’s role in broadening minds, nurturing empathy, and guiding intellectual growth. Together, their words set the tone for a day that honored the written and spoken word.
Throughout the Lit Fest, poets, artists, and thinkers explored the intricate relationship between culture, identity, and creativity. They spoke about how stories safeguard traditions, preserve communal memories, and reflect the richness of diverse backgrounds. From heritage tales that bind generations to modern narratives that challenge old boundaries, the sessions illustrated that storytelling is at once personal and universal.
The conversations encouraged attendees to see themselves as both tellers and listeners. Everyone has a story, whether it emerges from quiet memories or bold dreams. The festival’s sessions reminded participants that by sharing these stories, we affirm our identities, celebrate our differences, and collectively push the boundaries of what’s possible.
For the Priyadarshani Group of Schools, co-hosting the Banaras Lit Fest was more than an honor—it was an opportunity to show students that learning extends beyond classroom walls. This event demonstrated that literature isn’t limited to textbooks and exams; it’s a living, evolving force that opens doors to empathy, collaboration, and innovation. By immersing themselves in the festival’s creative energy, the young minds present discovered that their own stories could shape the future.
As the day drew to a close, participants departed not merely with notes and photographs but with renewed inspiration. The Banaras Lit Fest underscored that literature is a bridge connecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It affirmed that stories—whether spoken in bustling halls or whispered under starlit skies—have the power to change hearts, spark new ideas, and create communities built on understanding.
In a world often divided by difference, the festival stood as a reminder that we are all connected by our shared human narrative. The magic of that day lingers on, urging each of us to keep reading, keep writing, and keep celebrating the stories that define us.
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