Srinagar – It is all about books, culture, new ideas and profound conversations.
As the summer air warms the valley, Srinagar is preparing to host a literary celebration on the cool banks of Dal Lake, perhaps, like, never before. The Chinar Book Festival, scheduled from August 2 to 10, 2025, at SKICC, promises to be a melting pot of ideas, culture, creativity and civil discourse.
Curated under the aegis of the Ministry of Education, National Book Trust (NBT) India and District Administration Srinagar, the event is generating great enthusiasm among youngsters across the Valley.
Beyond the rich showcase of books, Mushairas, ghazals and literary activities, one of the most anticipated elements of the festival will be the thought-provoking panel discussions featuring writers, educators, artists, technocrats, entrepreneurs, health experts, social activists and changemakers from Kashmir’s civil society. These discussions will engage with some of the most urgent, inspirational, and transformative issues shaping the region’s future.
The festival will host panel discussions on varied themes, including –
Digital Media & Social Platforms – Discussions would explore how new-age media is influencing public discourse, identity and youth engagement in Kashmir.
Skill building, AI & Information Technology – With AI transforming industries, this session will focus on skilling Kashmir’s youth for global digital careers.
Changemakers of Kashmir – Discussions under this theme would reflect inspirational journeys of individuals driving change through education, entrepreneurship, innovation and activism.
Mental Health & Mindfulness – Sessions like ‘Laughter as a Medicine’ and ‘How to Detox Digitally’ will address the psychological well-being of young people.
Arts, Aesthetics & Handicrafts of Kashmir – Activities under this theme would showcase a celebration and discussion on how art, craft and culture can be revitalized and promoted in the global market.
Start-Up Revolution & Industrial Potential in J&K – Civil society stakeholders and youth entrepreneurs will examine policy opportunities and barriers in agriculture, sericulture, and rural enterprise.
Smart City & Ecological Concerns – This topic seeks to address what common people today remain concerned about. Dialogues on sustainable infrastructure, protection of water bodies and disaster preparedness will underscore environmental stewardship.
Voices of Media – Emcees, RJ’s, and anchors will discuss ethical journalism, new media narratives and grassroots communication in several panel discussions.
Children, Teachers & Early Education – Educators will deliberate on early learning challenges and training needs for modern teaching practices in Kashmir.
Health & Social Well-being – From ‘Save Your Heart’ to ‘Fighting Cancer’ and ‘Care for the Elderly’, civil society leaders and health professionals will advocate for preventative care and empathy in caregiving.
Career Planning & Young Writers Forum – With sessions like ‘Choosing the Right Career’ and ‘How to Write and Publish a Book’, the festival will empower youth with actionable insights and mentorship.
A platform for the public
This edition of the Chinar Book Festival goes beyond literature —organisers promise that it is a platform for community conversation, idea exchange and shaping a resilient and inclusive Kashmir. The presence of young changemakers, social workers, start-up leaders and creative minds is expected to ensure that the discussions will be grounded in reality yet future-focused.
Visitors can expect a vibrant blend of thought and culture, with live art workshops, Sufi music, children’s programming, and meet-the-author interactions further enriching the literary atmosphere.
With free entry and a 10% discount on all books, the festival invites everyone—from scholars to school children — to engage, learn, and grow.
Mark your calendars:
02–10 August 2025
SKICC, Srinagar
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