The beautiful Himalayan nation Bhutan is set to host the 13th edition of its an annual international literary festival, Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival (DLAF), from 3rd to 5th August 2024. Held under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the festival is organized by Bhutan Echoes, a not-for-profit organization that coordinates and produces events to promote literature, culture, and art in Bhutan.
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 array of programs. Participants will delve into the depths of human experience, uncovering pathways to inner peace, collective well-being, and profound personal transformation.
Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck
The event promises thought-provoking panel discussions, immersive workshops, and book readings. The festival will bring together the literary and artistic talents of Bhutan with esteemed voices from around the world. This year’s lineup features:
- Shashi Tharoor, writer and politician from India
- 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
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.
Royal University of Bhutan auditorium
Invitation from the Royal Patron – In anticipation of the festival, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the Royal Patron of Bhutan Echoes, shares her insight: “Embrace the beauty of literature and revel in the essence of life itself, for literature is the very soul that breathes life into our existence. Experience this profound connection as Bhutan Echoes captivates the hearts of readers and enthusiasts alike. Join us from August 3rd to 5th 2024 in Thimphu, where the magic of words will transport you to new realms of imagination.”
Drukyul’s Literature and Arts Festival stands as a testament to Bhutan’s profound commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH), the nation’s holistic approach to development and well-being. The festival is an independently organized not-for-profit event that is free and open to all.
Festival Directors
Sonam Wangmo Drukpa-Jhalani is a writer and supporter of literature and the arts. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from Boston University and an MA in International Development from the University of Denver in Colorado. She is currently the editor-in-chief of Yeewong magazine.
Kelly Dorji (born Kalden Sonam Dorji) is an actor and artist from Bhutan. He is also the author and illustrator of ‘The Hidden Rainbow’, which is an adult coloring book published by Penguin in 2019.
Tshering Tashi is a writer known for his works in the field of creative nonfiction. In the last two decades, he has authored numerous books on Bhutan and has made the country’s rich history and diverse culture interesting, accessible, and engaging for the youth.
Festival Dates – 3rd – 5th August 2024
Festival Address – Royal University of Bhutan, Convention Auditorium, Thimphu, Bhutan
For more information, please visit www.drukyul.org.
