Bhubaneswar, Nov 29: The much-awaited 3rd SOA Literary Festival 2025 has officially begun, with Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, inaugurating the two-day event. The festival, which has become a landmark occasion for literature and cultural discussion in the state, is witnessing a gathering of more than 100 distinguished figures from across the country, including authors, poets, artists, novelists, translators, publishers, thinkers, and media professionals.

In a highlight of the inaugural session, renowned poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar was honoured with the prestigious SOA Literary Award for his outstanding contributions to literature and cinema. The award ceremony took place amidst an enthusiastic crowd, with Akhtar's iconic presence being a source of inspiration for the attendees.

Over the next two days, the festival will host a series of discussions, talks, and debates on a wide range of subjects, including language, literature, culture, society, cinema, and education. Topics related to artificial intelligence (AI) are also expected to be featured prominently, reflecting the growing interest in technological advancements and their intersection with creativity.

The SOA Literary Festival serves as a platform for intellectual engagement, where participants will delve into the evolving narratives of modern India and explore ideas that shape contemporary thought. The discussions will be complemented by cultural performances, adding a vibrant dimension to the festival.