Bhubaneswar, Nov 29: Renowned poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar arrived in Bhubaneswar on Friday to attend the much-anticipated SOA (Siksha 'O' Anusandhan) Literary Festival, that will be kicking off with a grand opening ceremony at the Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University Campus -2.
Akhtar, known for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema and literature, was warmly welcomed by the organisers, faculty members, and students of the university. The festival, which aims to celebrate the power of words and foster intellectual conversations, is being held over two days and features a range of literary activities, including panel discussions, poetry readings, and author meet-and-greets.
Speaking to the media upon his arrival, Javed Akhtar expressed his excitement about being part of the prestigious event. "It is always a pleasure to be in the company of young minds who are passionate about literature and the arts," Akhtar said. "The SOA Literary Festival is a wonderful platform to engage with literature, share ideas, and inspire the next generation of writers, poets, and thinkers."
The SOA Literary Festival this year has drawn notable figures from the world of literature, film, and academia, with Akhtar’s presence being one of the highlights. He is scheduled to participate in a keynote session where he will share insights into his poetic journey and his work as a lyricist and screenwriter in Bollywood. The session is expected to be a major draw for literary enthusiasts and students of the university.
Apart from his literary achievements, Javed Akhtar is also known for his activism and social commentary. His powerful verses and thought-provoking lyrics in songs for films such as Dil Chahta Hai, Lagaan, and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara have made him one of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian culture.
The event is also set to feature discussions on a variety of topics, including the future of Indian literature, the intersection of art and politics, and the evolution of storytelling in modern cinema.
