Bathinda, March 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, virtually inaugurated the two-day 4th Annual English Literary Festival 2026 at the Central University of Punjab (CU Punjab) as the Chief Guest.
The festival, organised by the Department of English, CU Punjab, in collaboration with Guru Kashi University, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, and Baba Farid Group of Institutions, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and scholars across institutions.
Addressing academicians, writers, and students, Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria lauded CU Punjab’s remarkable growth since its establishment in 2009, describing its 17-year journey as exemplary.
He emphasised the transformative role of literature and education in shaping society and inspiring young minds. Highlighting the importance of literary initiatives, he noted that such festivals celebrate creativity and provide a meaningful platform for expression and dialogue.
Underscoring the significance of literature, the Governor stated that literature not only mirrors society but also shapes it. Citing examples from Indian literary traditions, he noted how works like the Valmiki Ramayana have helped society understand ideals and values, while poets and writers across generations have awakened the youth and provided direction for the future.
He highlighted that writers and poets have historically guided and awakened society, while India’s civilizational legacy—rooted in the teachings of great Gurus and scholars like Aryabhata—continues to inspire progress. Urging students to contribute to quality literature, he expressed confidence that such festivals would nurture creativity, uphold cultural values, and encourage meaningful contributions to society.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. R. P. Tiwari expressed deep gratitude to the Hon’ble Governor for his guidance and gracious presence. He highlighted that Hon’ble Governor’s insights on contemporary challenges currently being faced by Punjab help create awareness and provide direction for solutions.
He appreciated the Department of English for organising the festival in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, with a focus on skill development, and emphasised that such initiatives foster collaboration, mutual respect, and societal engagement among students. Prof. Tiwari appreciated the role of HoD English Prof. Vipan Pal Singh in conceptualizing and implementing new and progressive practices in the department.
The inaugural session also featured the release of a special magazine by the Guests of Honour, Prof. Gurmit Singh Dhaliwal, Chairman, Baba Farid Group of Institutions, and Dr. Gurinder Pal Singh Brar, Registrar, MRSPTU. Prof. Kiran Hazarika, Pro Vice-Chancellor, thanked the Hon’ble Governor and guests, highlighted the role of India’s sacred literature in promoting harmony and sustainability, and encouraged active participation in the festival.
The session commenced with a formal welcome address and introduction of the Chief Guest by Prof. Vipan Pal Singh, Head, Department of English, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Dinesh Babu P. (Programme Coordinator) and Prof. Shahila Zafar.
The inaugural day also featured interactive sessions, with distinguished speakers enriching the academic discourse. The festival aims to foster literary creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative learning among students while providing a dynamic platform for dialogue between scholars and creative writers.
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