The Adharxila Trust, a non-profit organization, has announced that the Brahmaputra Literature Festival (BLF) 2026 will be held from February 6 to 8 in the historic town of Sivasagar, Assam. 

• The festival aims to showcase and promote the rich literary and cultural heritage of Assam and the entire Northeast India.

Key Highlights and Significance

• Organizers and Location:
  • The festival is organized by the Adharxila Trust, headed by eminent author and Festival Director Dr. Rita Chowdhury.
  • The choice of Sivasagar is significant as it was the erstwhile capital of the Ahom Kingdom and is rich in historical and architectural heritage.
• Theme and Focus:
  • The 2026 theme is “A confluence of Rhythm, Word & Spirit – Celebrating the Voice of Humanity.”
  • The festival will place a special spotlight on tribal heritage, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual identities, and indigenous storytelling traditions of the region, including the Bodo and Mishing communities.
  • It serves as a vital platform to bridge local traditions with global perspectives, fostering dialogue across nations, languages, and cultures.
• Tribute to Cultural Icons:
  • A major focus of this edition will be the celebration of the birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika (born September 8, 1926), the revered “Bard of the Brahmaputra.
  • The festival will also pay a special tribute to the musical legacy of the late popular singer Zubeen Garg.

Exam Hook: UPSC Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Brahmaputra Literature Festival (BLF) 2026:

1. It is organized by the Adharxila Trust and is scheduled to be held in Sivasagar, the historical capital of the Ahom Kingdom.
2. The festival’s theme emphasizes indigenous storytelling traditions and tribal heritage of the multi-ethnic Northeast India.
3. A key event is the special celebration of the birth centenary of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 3 only

(C) 2 and 3 only

(D) 1, 2, and 3

One Line Wrap: The Brahmaputra Literature Festival in Sivasagar is a major annual cultural event connecting Assam’s rich historical and multi-ethnic literary heritage, particularly celebrating icons like Bhupen Hazarika, with a global audience.

(Answer: (D) 1, 2, and 3)

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