The Chandigarh Literary Society (CLS) has announced the 13th edition of CLF Literati, set for 21–23 November 2025 at the picturesque Lake Club, Chandigarh.
The festival’s theme this year is “Worlds Within Words”, emphasising literature’s ability to transport readers across geographies, cultures and ideas.
It will feature an international author line-up including writers from India, the United States and Australia, making this edition truly global in scope.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Dates | 21-23 November 2025 |
| Venue | Lake Club, Chandigarh (Lake Club grounds, Sector 1) |
| Theme | “Worlds Within Words” |
| Sessions | 12 + sessions including panel discussions, book conversations, workshops |
| Special Feature | First-edition CLF Literati Book Awards (English & Hindi) |
| International Participation | Authors from India, the USA and Australia |
What to Expect: Sessions & Features
Panel Discussions & Book Conversations
The festival will host sessions bringing together established and emerging writers, critics, translators and literary scholars. Topics will traverse themes like identity, global stories, translation, the future of reading, cross-cultural narratives and digital literature.
Storytelling Workshops & Youth-Engagement
Younger audiences will have the chance to attend workshops on storytelling craft, interactive poetry recitations and sessions aimed at nurturing a reading culture.
Inaugural CLF Literati Book Awards
For the first time, CLS is instituting the CLF Literati Book Awards honouring outstanding literary works published between 1 January 2024 and 31 July 2025 in three categories: English Fiction, English Non-Fiction and Hindi (Fiction/Non-Fiction).
Art & Cultural Exhibits
Beyond literature, the festival will host a special art exhibition showcasing paintings inspired by the central theme, live poetry readings, book signing sessions, and interactive stalls for book lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
International Writers & Global Voices
With featured authors from three countries, the festival will spotlight cross-border literary exchanges and international perspectives, widening access to global voices for Chandigarh’s literary community.
Why the CLF Literati Matters
Strengthening Literary Culture in Punjab/Chandigarh
As one of the region’s premier literary festivals, CLF Literati helps elevate Chandigarh as a hub of culture, debate and literary excellence, and promotes reading and writing in English and Hindi.
Promoting Global Literary Exchange
With international authors and diverse sessions, the festival enriches Indian literary discourse by bringing in global voices and fostering dialogues about translation, world literature and cross-cultural narratives.
Recognising Literary Merit
By launching the Book Awards, CLS underlines its commitment to recognising high-quality writing and encouraging publishers, authors and translators to strive for excellence.
Engaging Diverse Audiences
The mix of workshops for youth, poetry evenings, art-exhibits and interactive zones ensures the festival appeals not just to literary veterans but also to young readers, writers and the broader public.
Featured Authors & Guests (Sample Highlights)
While the full line-up is still being finalised, statements from CLS confirm eminent authors from India, the US and Australia will participate.
Attendees can expect:
Indian literary figures spanning fiction, non-fiction and Hindi writing
American authors offering perspectives on global literature and storytelling in the digital age
Australian writers contributing voices from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond
Visitor Information & Practical Details
Entry & Registration: Most sessions will be open to the public. Some premium panels and workshops may require pre-registration (check official festival website).
Venue Access: Lake Club, Chandigarh (plan for traffic/parking near Sukhna Lake area).
Best Time to Arrive: Festive events begin Nov 21 evening; early registration/check-in recommended.
What to Bring: ID (for registration), notebook/pen (for interactive sessions), water bottle, comfortable footwear for walking between venues.
For Families/Youth: Story-telling workshops, art corners and poetry zones are ideal for younger attendees and students.
Accommodation & Stay: Given the influx of visitors, booking a hotel near Chandigarh ahead of time is advisable.
Social & Digital Handles: Use hashtags such as #CLFLiterati2025 #WorldsWithinWords #ChandigarhLitFest to follow updates and share experiences.
Expert / Organiser Quote
“With the theme ‘Worlds Within Words’, we aim to bring literary voices from India and beyond to Chandigarh, offering readers and writers a global platform of ideas, stories and craft,” said Dr Sumita Misra, Founder-Chairperson of CLS and Festival Director. Cityairnews
The 13th edition of CLF Literati is shaping up to be a rich celebration of literature, art and global story-telling. Whether you are a reader, writer, student, or simply curious about words and ideas — this festival presents a unique chance to engage with some of the best voices in the literary world, right here in Chandigarh. Mark your calendar November 21-23, 2025, and prepare to explore the boundless “worlds within words”.
