Bihar turns the spotlight on heritage: PM Modi pledges UNESCO bid for Chhath

The Bihar Literature Festival in Patna showcased a vibrant mix of language, cultural discourse, and literary creation on its second day, drawing writers, poets, scholars and literary enthusiasts from across the state. The event was described as a ”sangam” (confluence) of language, thought and creative expression, highlighting the diversity and strength of regional and national literature. Organised under the aegis of the Cabinet Secretariat’s Department of Official Language (Rajbhasha), sessions explored themes related to language preservation, literary art, regional linguistic heritage and the role of literature in contemporary society. Speakers at various panels underscored the importance of promoting local languages and literary forms alongside broader cultural and intellectual engagement. The festival also featured discussions on creative writing, poetry readings, and forums where authors and thinkers shared insights on how language influences thought and artistic expression. Participants emphasised the need to support regional literature to maintain linguistic identity and foster new voices in the literary community. Events like the Bihar Literature Festival form part of a wider cultural calendar in the state, similar to other literary gatherings such as the Unmesh International Literature Festival, which brings together writers from many languages and countries to celebrate global literary exchange. © Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.

Several NDA leaders participated today in a Makar Sankranti dahi-chura feast hosted by Lok Janshakti Party (Ram) leader Chirag Paswan in Patna, bringing together political figures, supporters and residents to celebrate the harvest festival. The event, held in an open ground near a central part of the city, drew a sizable crowd that included party workers, local dignitaries and community members. Chirag Paswan, seen distributing plates of dahi and chura to attendees, welcomed leaders from across the National Democratic Alliance, emphasising the cultural significance of Makar Sankranti as a symbol of togetherness and shared heritage. Many participants described the feast as a moment of festive unity, where political differences were set aside in favour of cultural celebration. Among those present were representatives from several allied parties, who joined in the festivities, greeted participants and interacted with local residents. Supporters said the event highlighted not only the spirit of the festival but also the importance of cultural engagement in public life. The gathering featured traditional food, music and informal conversations among attendees, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Attendees expressed that the Makar Sankranti feast offered an opportunity for political leaders to connect with citizens in a festive setting while honouring longstanding traditions of community sharing. Chirag Paswan spoke to the crowd about the values associated with Makar Sankranti, including gratitude for the harvest season and the importance of community solidarity. He also encouraged youth participation and cultural preservation, stating that such festivals play a vital role in strengthening social bonds. Local residents praised the inclusive nature of the event and the accessibility of leaders during the celebrations. Many noted that participatory cultural events offer a platform for citizens to engage with public figures outside formal political contexts. The feast wrapped up peacefully, with participants sharing best wishes for the festival and renewed commitments to community harmony. Organisers said that similar cultural outreach programmes will continue in the coming months. © Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.

The Navarasa Festival in Patna attracted more than 1,000 young participants this weekend, offering a vibrant blend of devotional music, cultural performances and spiritual discourse rooted in the teachings of Lord Krishna. Organised by ISKCON Patna at the ISKCON temple grounds, the multi-day event focused on fostering inner peace, community engagement and devotional arts among youth from Bihar and neighbouring regions. ”The festival celebrates the nine emotions (Navarasa) including love, joy, peace and devotion through music, dance and interactive sessions,” explained one of the organisers. Spiritual practitioners and cultural performers presented bhajans, kirtans, classical dance pieces and thematic storytelling segments, each designed to evoke specific emotional and devotional states in alignment with ancient Indian aesthetics. Youth attendees expressed that the festival provided not only spiritual insight but also a sense of community and shared purpose. ”It’s rare to see such an energetic and devotional gathering where music and spirituality come together to inspire young minds,” said one student participant from Patna University. Many described the experience as uplifting and mentally refreshing amid academic pressures and winter fatigue. Leadership from the temple highlighted that the festival also included workshops on meditation, ethical living and traditional arts, encouraging participants to integrate values of compassion, self-awareness and creative expression into daily life. Local residents and visitors praised the event’s organisation, noting that safety measures, volunteer-led guidance teams and culturally sensitive programming contributed to its success. The Navarasa Festival is expected to become an annual hallmark event in Patna’s cultural calendar, continuing its mission to connect youth with spiritual heritage through expressive arts and communal devotion. © Images used for illustrative purposes only. Copyrights belong to their respective owners.