In the heart of the Himalayas lies Bhutan, a land celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and flourishing literary and artistic heritage. Leading this cultural renaissance is Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival (DLAF), an annual celebration that attracts literary and art enthusiasts from around the globe. The 13th edition of the festival, under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, is set to unfold from August 3rd to 5th, transforming Thimphu into a vibrant tapestry of storytelling and artistic expression.
Embracing the Theme of “Mindfulness”
Inspired by the profound vision of His Majesty the King of Bhutan, as articulated in the 116th National Day Address in December 2023, DLAF 2024 embraces the transformative theme of “Mindfulness.” Steeped in Bhutanese values of compassion, harmony, and self-awareness, this theme serves as the guiding star for the festival’s rich array of programs. Participants will delve into the depths of the human experience, uncovering pathways to inner peace, collective well-being, and profound personal transformation.
A Global Stage for Literary and Artistic Excellence
DLAF proudly stands as the crowning jewel of Bhutan Echoes, a visionary initiative devoted to nurturing literature, culture, and the arts within this serene kingdom. Through meticulously curated events, Bhutan Echoes champions the preservation and celebration of Bhutan’s cultural heritage and artistic expression, ensuring that the spirit of creativity continues to thrive in this magical land.
Thought-Provoking Sessions with Celebrated Guests
The festival masterfully weaves together the literary and artistic talents of Bhutan with esteemed voices from around the world. This year’s lineup features:
- Shashi Tharoor, esteemeed writer and politician
- Anton Hur, Korean author and translator shortlisted for the 2022 International Booker Prize.
- Ashwin Sanghi, writer and one of India’s best-selling English fiction authors
Attendees at DLAF 2024 will be immersed in thought-provoking panel discussions, immersive workshops, and captivating book readings, offering a feast of intellectual and artistic delights.
Previous Speakers The festival has welcomed distinguished speakers such as Ruskin Bond, Pico Iyer, Vikas Swarup, Markus Zusak, Padma Lakshmi, Vikram Seth, Kabir Bedi, Kunzang Choden, and Pawo Choyning Dorji. DLAF highlights Bhutanese culture and fosters dialogue that transcends boundaries, enriching the global literary and artistic community