Uttarakhand News: Garhwali and Kumaoni Literature Takes Centre Stage at Doon Book Festival, 26 New Titles Launched

The Doon Book Festival 2026 foregrounds regional languages with 26 Garhwali and Kumaoni titles from the National Book Trust. The event enhances multilingual education and preserves Uttarakhand's linguistic heritage, while Doon Lit Fest broadens cultural dialogue with noted speakers and diverse sessions.

The ongoing Doon Book Festival 2026 has emerged as a vibrant celebration of literature and culture, with a special spotlight on regional languages. In a significant cultural initiative, the National Book Trust, India (NBT) has released 26 new titles-13 each in Garhwali and Kumaoni-highlighting the rich linguistic heritage of Uttarakhand.

Organised at the historic Parade Ground, the festival is gradually transforming Dehradun into a thriving literary hub. With over 300 book stalls from publishers across the country, along with diverse sessions and daily learning activities for children, the event has drawn widespread attention. However, the strong focus on regional languages has stood out as one of its most defining highlights.

The 26 Garhwali and Kumaoni titles were unveiled during the festival's inauguration on April 4 by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami along with other distinguished guests. The books are the result of a dedicated initiative by NBT, which brought together writers, translators, and language experts from across Uttarakhand.

Building on a specialised workshop conducted last year, the project involved curating and translating children's literature and key literary works into Garhwali and Kumaoni. These languages form an integral part of the state's cultural identity but have often remained underrepresented in mainstream publishing. The initiative aims to provide quality reading material in mother tongues and ensure that younger generations stay connected to their linguistic roots.

Among the Garhwali titles released are Chauri-Chaura Jan Kranti ko Nayo Sabero, Nanna Haira Chakhula, Ummeedai Kiran, Gaira Sagara Ajooba, and Aadmi ar Chhail ar Hauri Kahani. The Kumaoni titles include Maati Myar Deshe ki, Abhimaanai Haar, Badhanai Jaani Kaan, Khatu Shyamak Ansuni Kahani, and Gulaab ka Dagdu, among others.

Aligned with National Education Policy 2020

The initiative aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting multilingual education and learning through the mother tongue. Experts believe such efforts help bridge the gap between languages spoken at home and those used in formal education, thereby strengthening early literacy. By offering stories in multiple languages, including regional translations, the initiative not only enhances accessibility but also fosters respect for India's diverse linguistic landscape.

Doon Lit Fest Adds Intellectual Depth

Complementing the book releases is the Doon Lit Fest, which began on April 5 and has become a dynamic platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas. The event features a diverse lineup of speakers including Nitin Seth, Kulpreet Yadav, Akhilendra Mishra, Acharya Prashant, Shubhanshu Shukla, and Satish Dua.

Discussions at the festival span a wide range of topics-from cinema and contemporary literature to leadership, patriotism, and evolving human-machine relationships-making it a comprehensive cultural and intellectual experience. As books, conversations, and culture converge, the Doon Book Festival continues to celebrate the voices of the Doon Valley while strengthening the foundation of India's multilingual literary heritage.