Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan Inaugurates International Literature Festival 'Unmesh' in Patna

Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan today inaugurated the third edition of the International Literature Festival, Unmesh, in Patna, marking a significant milestone in the cultural landscape of Bihar. The festival, which will run until 28th September 2025, has drawn more than 550 literary figures, artists, and cultural personalities from 16 countries.

Key Points:

• Governor’s Address: In his inaugural speech, Governor Arif Mohammad Khan emphasized the importance of literature in restoring the dignity and mission of humanity in the current era, which is marked by economic greed and digital dominance. He noted that while new opportunities and horizons are expanding, society is increasingly entangled in confusion, triviality, and boredom, primarily due to the neglect of spirituality—an essential element of literature.

• Call to Action: The Governor appealed to the literary community, urging writers, poets, artists, and thinkers to contribute to the creation of a “universal republic of letters” and work towards fostering a truly global society.

• Unmesh Festival: The festival has become one of Asia's largest literary events, drawing delegates from across the world. This year, it includes representatives of over 100 languages and dialects, reflecting the diversity of global literary traditions.

• Organizers: The festival is organized by the Sahitya Akademi under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, with active participation from literary figures and cultural personalities who represent a broad spectrum of global thought.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Unmesh serves as an important reminder of the role of literature in shaping societal values and human dignity amidst the challenges posed by modern life. The festival provides a platform for cross-cultural dialogue, promoting not only literary exchange but also fostering a deeper understanding of global traditions.