New Delhi: Aaj Tak is set to host the much-awaited sixth edition of its annual literary festival, ‘Sahitya Aaj Tak’, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi from November 22 to 24, 2024. The event will bring together the finest literary minds, celebrated authors, and thinkers to honour the rich heritage of Indian literature.
The highlight of this year’s celebration will be the ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Lifetime Achievement Award’ presented to the legendary poet, lyricist, and filmmaker, Gulzar. Known for his iconic works across poetry, film, and television, Gulzar’s contribution to India’s literary and cinematic landscape has been monumental. He will be awarded ₹11 lakh, a commemorative plaque, and a citation, recognising his unparalleled legacy and lasting influence on the cultural fabric of India.
Honouring Literary Icons
The ceremony will be graced by the presence of the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who will present the ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Samman’ to other distinguished literary figures on November 23. The awards recognise excellence across various categories, including:
- Best Work (Male Author)
- Best Work (Female Author)
- Popular Author Award
- Indian Language Literature Award
- Emerging Talent Awards
The winners, selected by a distinguished jury, will receive cash prizes ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000, along with commemorative plaques and citations.
A Tribute to Indian Literary Heritage
The ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Samman’ was established in collaboration with the Jagriti Foundation, marking an effort to recognise and elevate contributions to Indian literature. This award aims to showcase the brilliance of India’s literary community and inspire the next generation of authors.
The event will feature insightful sessions, discussions, and cultural dialogues, adding depth to the festival’s legacy. Last year, the Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Javed Akhtar, a celebrated poet and screenwriter, by Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla. With President Murmu presenting this year’s awards, the event promises to be a landmark occasion for literary enthusiasts across the nation.
Commitment to Indian Literature
“The ‘Sahitya Jagriti Samman’ award reaffirms our group’s deep commitment to Indian literature. Through the ‘Sahitya Jagriti Samman’, we have been honoring writers and their contributions who have enriched society and culture with their works,” said Kalli Purie, Vice-Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group. “We express our gratitude to the Honorable President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who will be present on this special occasion to present the ‘Sahitya Jagriti Samman’. Her support makes this award ceremony even more prestigious.”
Celebrating Literary Excellence
As India’s largest literary festival, ‘Sahitya Aaj Tak’ is dedicated to celebrating the diverse and vibrant world of Indian literature. This year’s edition will further solidify the festival’s role in shaping and preserving India’s literary legacy, providing a platform for authors, poets, and thinkers to come together and engage in meaningful dialogues that inspire, empower, and elevate literature in all its forms.
The ‘Sahitya Aaj Tak’ festival continues to be a powerful force in India’s cultural calendar, uniting literary icons with their admirers and showcasing the timeless beauty of India’s languages, storytelling, and creative expressions.
