Kalli Purie, the Vice Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, inaugurated the eighth edition of Sahitya Aaj Tak in Delhi, emphasizing the profound role of literature in providing solace and perspective during times of great uncertainty. The annual festival celebrates the convergence of literature, art, and music.
In her keynote address, Purie reflected on a year marked by unpredictable tragedies that underscored the “fragility of life.” She specifically referenced two major national calamities that struck India in 2025:
- Pahalgam Terror Attack: The brutal attack in the Baisaran Valley claimed 26 lives, targeting tourists and reinforcing a sense of insecurity.
- Air India Flight 171 Crash: The crash in Ahmedabad, which killed 260 people after the aircraft tragically struck a medical college building, served as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictable nature.
Purie quoted the timeless classic by Kishore Kumar, “Zindagi ek safar hai suhana, yahaan kal kya ho kisne jaana,” highlighting how such devastating moments force humanity to seek deeper connection and meaning.
She asserted that literature remains vital, playing a critical role in strengthening relationships and offering essential perspective when life’s threads seem fragile. According to Purie, the true “super power” that provides comfort amid chaos is love, friendship, and shared stories—the very core elements preserved and championed by literature.
The Sahitya Aaj Tak 2025 event, which brings together leading literary figures, aims to be a forum for that essential human connection and storytelling.
Key Highlights:
- Inaugural Address: Kalli Purie, India Today Group Vice Chairperson, inaugurated the eighth edition of Sahitya Aaj Tak in Delhi, stressing that literature holds together the “fragile threads of life.”
- Tragedies Cited: Purie cited two major 2025 incidents—the Pahalgam terror attack (26 lives lost) and the Air India flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad (260 people killed)—as reminders of life’s unpredictability.
- Role of Literature: She highlighted that literature and shared stories are crucial for strengthening relationships and offering perspective amid uncertainty, referring to love and human connection as the essential “super power” that provides comfort.
- Event Focus: The festival brings together prominent figures from literature, art, and music to celebrate the continuing relevance of storytelling in the modern, uncertain world.