Bhubaneswar. Feb 1: Eminent litterateur Padmashri Dr Sitanshu Yashaschandra today expressed concern over lack of interest of young generation in literature.

“Young generation is not taking interest in literature. That’s why the space is reducing. This is really pathetic. At least the young generation should come forward and enrich literature, “said the eminent litterateur at the sideline of first edition of SOA Literary Festival here today.

The two-day lit-fest, which was attended by over hundred literary personalities from across the country, was inaugurated by Dr Yashaschandra.

Dr Dnyaneshwar Mulay, an Indian career diplomat as well as a celebrated author and columnist, said many of Indian languages and dialects have disappeared though in India beauty lies in diversity of languages. In India as many as 22 languages have been recognised by its Constitution.

Dr Vasdev Mohi, accomplished Sindhi poet who was selected for the Saraswati Samman, said he does not believe in the saying that literature is the mirror of society because literature is the combination of reality and imagination. The beauty of literature lies in the best combination of the two.

Eminent Odia writer Dr Tarunkanti Mishra and noted Santhali writer Kalicharan Hembram, who have been selected for Kendriya Sahitya Akademi award 2019, were felicitated on the occasion.

Dr Mishra said solitude gives him inspiration to write while Hembram expressed happiness that more and more young writers are evincing interest in writing in Santhali dialect.

Vice-Chancellor of Siksha O Anusandhan University Prof RK Chauhan said more than one hundred literary personalities would share their views during the two-day long lit-fest. Head PPRACHIN Dr Gayatribala Panda welcomed the guests while university’s Director, International Admissions Nachiketa Sharma offered vote of thanks.

Several dignitaries and litterateurs including lit-fest’s chief patron and SOA founder Prof Manoranjan Nayak were present on the occasion.