When literary creations meet artistic caliber, Bhopal transforms into a living, breathing canvas of words, ideas, and expression. Making this a reality for the last 7 years is the Bhopal Literature & Art Festival. It is a creative platform for writers, artists, and students from across the country and is set against the rich cultural and historical backdrop of this city. Now set for its 8th edition, It is taking place from 9th to 11th January. So whether you are a literary enthusiast or a budding artist, the festival promises to be an immersive experience celebrating ideas and imagination. Here are more details about the same.
Bhopal Literature & Art Festival 2026: All The Details You Need To Know
A Brief Introduction Of Bhopal Literature & Art Festival
The first-ever edition of the Bhopal Literature & Art Festival, also commonly known as the Bhopal Literature Festival (BLF), took place in 2019. BLF was started as a vibrant annual celebration of literature, arts, ideas, and creativity. Held in the heart of Bhopal, the festival is rooted in India’s rich storytelling tradition.
The BLF explores stories that are worth being told through a literary or artistic perspective. It consists of three main components as mentioned below:
- Knowledge Kumbh: comprising 56 literary/knowledge sessions.
- Tribal Art Camp: Training/exhibiting works of second and third generation tribal artists
- Student contests: Promoting education through competitions in various creative fields such as painting, storytelling, and poetry contests.
To ensure a wholesome and engaging experience, the festival features a diverse range of themes. These include History & Mythology, Defense & Diplomacy, Art & Lifestyle, Environment & Conservation, and others, bringing together authors, artists, thinkers, and audiences from all over India.
Also Read: Jaipur Literature Festival 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to the World’s Greatest Literary Gathering
Bhopal Literature & Art Festival 2026 Schedule
On all the three days, the BLF will take place from 10:30 AM to around 8:30/9:00 PM. The literature & art festival will take place at Bhopal’s Bharat Bhavan and will consist of several literary sessions, talk sessions, thoughtful conversations, and musical performances. With over 100 top thinkers from across India and 60+ sessions, the BLF 2026 promises an extraordinary experience. Here are some of the top speakers who’ll grace the 2026 edition of the Bhopal Literature & Art Festival:
- Anindita Ghose: Writer, journalist, and communications consultant.
- Ashwin Sanghi: One of India’s highest-selling English fiction authors.
- Devanshi Khetarpal: Writer and translator
- Dr. MK Ranjitsinh: Author and authority on wildlife and nature conservation, scion of the Jhala dynasty from the princely state of Wankaner.
- Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin: Physician, hepatologist, and gastroenterologist
The Tribal Art Camp, a highlight of the festival, will take place on all the three days from 12 PM to 6 PM. It will consist of exhibitions and tribal artist camps highlighting Gond, Baiga, and other indigenous art forms.
Additionally, the festival will witness the book launches of the following authors:
- India Reborn, A Civilization’s Rebound from Two Centuries of Decline: Prasenjit K Basu
- Democracy with Dharma, The Successful Indian Experiment: Salvatore Babones
- Kuch Yaadein, Kuch Baatein Bhi -My Days with Police: Dr Panna Lal
- Target Asad Shah: Vasant Limaye
- Yunh Hi Chala Chal Rahee: Dr Neelkamal Kapoor
To register yourself for the festival, you must register on the official website of the Bhopal Literature & Art Festival.
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How To Reach Bhopal?
By Air
Bhopal has its own domestic and a seasonal international airport that connects some of the major cities in India. From the airport, you can take a cab or a bus to reach Bharat Bhavan, which is about 12 km away.
By Rail
The Bhopal Junction Railway Station serves the city of Bhopal. It is located about 4.4 km away from Bharat Bhavan and you can easily get a bus, cab, or rickshaw to reach the venue.
By Road
Bhopal is a city connected very well to other cities in Madhya Pradesh such as Indore, Ujjain, and Jabalpur. It is also well-connected via highways and expressways to major cities like Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Kota, and others.
Summing Up
The Bhopal Literature & Art Festival is more than just that, it is a celebration of ideas that leave an impact in the world of literature and arts. The festival, rooted in Indian rich storytelling traditions, is back with its 8th edition in January 2026. Taking place in Bhopal’s Bharat Bhavan over the course of three days, this is your sign to register and attend this festival.
