49th SAARC Literature Festival begins

The four-day SAARC Literature Festival began here today with dignitaries sprinkling rose petals on Yamuna water.
The event opened at Hotel Grand with songs, dances, poetry recital and discussions on literary trends.
Chairperson of the Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature (FOSWAL) Ajeet Cour said the 49th SAARC Literature Festival being held in the Taj city will help bridge the gaps and bring the eight SAARC countries closer through literary and cultural exchanges.
In his presidential address, eminent poet Sri Kant Mahapatra said terrorism was a major area of concern.
Eminent journalist Om Thanvi said artists, writers, poets will need to voice common concerns and in addition to writing, take to streets to raise their voice against injustices and inequalities.

Cour said half-a-dozen books were released and papers on literary trends presented in the afternoon session.