Lit Fest highlights Ayodhya's spiritual and cultural heritage

The Timeless Ayodhya Literature and Arts Festival 2025 began on Friday after a ceremonial opening by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The event focuses on the spiritual and cultural heritage of Ayodhya. The first session, titled "Ayodhya Se Adhyatma," featured scholar Acharya Mithileshnandini Sharan in a discussion with Jai Prakash Pandey. They talked about Ayodhya's rich spiritual traditions and the importance of reviving dharma, emphasizing that the city represents a deep faith and devotion. Another highlight was a session called "Aangaan ki Sugandh: Chandan Kiwaad." Folk singer Malini Awasthi discussed her book, which encourages people to return to their cultural roots. Additionally, singers Vidya Shah and Sufi Kathak dancer Manjari Chaturvedi explored the musical legacy of Begum Akhtar and her connections with the Ayodhya royal family. A panel including journalist Anant Vijay and historian Dr. Vikram Sampath shared thoughts on India's cultural heritage in a session called "Legacy of India." They discussed the resilience and depth of Bharatiya Parampara, or Indian tradition. The day ended with a performance by Malini Awasthi, who enchanted the audience with her rendition of "Raghuraiya: Awadh ka Sangeet," showcasing the vibrant folk music of the Awadh region.