The term LitFest—short for Literature Festival—perfectly captures the spirit of creativity and intellectual engagement that defines this annual celebration organised by the Department of English at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies. This year, LitFest is being held on 17th April 2026, bringing together a vibrant mix of ideas, performances, and literary expression under the theme “Cityscapes: Stories, Streets and Urban Imaginations.”
The festival features a diverse range of events, including a Debate Competition, Exhibition, Literary Symposium, Kavi Sammelan, and Theatre performances. It offers students—both from within the university and across India—a valuable platform to showcase their talents, gain confidence, and compete for prestigious recognitions. Participation from institutions such as KR Mangalam University, Amity University Noida, IGDTU, NIT Faridabad, MRU, and MRDC has contributed to an enthusiastic response, with over a hundred registrations this year.
LitFest is not just an event but an experience. Dedicated teams for decoration, anchoring, and exhibition ensure that the festival is as aesthetically engaging as it is intellectually stimulating. While the decoration team brings creativity to life through art and design, the anchors energise the event with their strong communication skills.
Beyond celebration, LitFest plays a crucial role in holistic development. It provides a refreshing break from routine academic life while nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and expression. Events like the Debate Competition sharpen analytical skills and encourage articulate expression, while the Exhibition fosters curiosity and intellectual growth. The Literary Symposium creates space for meaningful conversations around contemporary writing and publishing, and the Kavi Sammelan celebrates poetic expression. The Theatre segment, meanwhile, transforms stories into lived experiences, connecting audiences through emotion and performance.
In essence, LitFest 2026 is an invitation to imagine, express, and engage—a space where stories come alive and voices find their echo in the ever-evolving cityscape.
– by Anshika Jain
