Guwahati, Jan 23: In a historic shift, the 77th biennial session of Asam Sahitya Sabha, the largest literary organization in Northeast India, will replace its traditional “trade fair” with a “science fair,” reinforcing the connection between science and literature. The prestigious event is set to take place at Bhattadev Kshetra in Pathsala, Bajali district, from January 31 to February 4.
With only a week left for the session, nearly 60% of the work has been completed, including the setup of the main stage, book fair, science fair, exhibition area, and Naamghar. More than 9 lakh attendees, including 5,000 delegates from across Assam, are expected to participate in the event.
Assam Minister and Reception Committee president, Ranjeet Kumar Dass, assured that all preparations are progressing smoothly. “We are all set to welcome people from all over Assam and beyond. Our team is working tirelessly to make this event a truly memorable experience,” he said.
“22 institutions, including the Defence Ministry, Petroleum Ministry, IIT Guwahati, Tezpur University, and Meghalaya Space Research Centre, will participate in the Science Fair. We invite students across Assam to attend and gain valuable knowledge. The fair will feature two thematic pavilions and promises a unique learning experience,” Dass added.
The session will host over 400 distinguished guests from India and abroad, including eminent litterateurs from the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Nepal, Arunachal Pradesh, and other regions, making it a truly global affair.
For the first time, a science fair will be held in place of the trade fair, in collaboration with Bajali Hat, aiming to create a bridge between science and literature. The initiative is expected to inspire young minds and highlight Assam’s advancements in scientific thought and research.
In addition to the science fair, attendees can enjoy cultural showcases, reflecting the vibrant traditions of Assam and the Northeast. Local and invited artists will present mesmerizing performances throughout the session.
One of the most highly anticipated attractions is the construction of a massive japi—the traditional Assamese hat—crafted using 1,500 tokou leaves from Arunachal Pradesh. This iconic structure will symbolize Assamese culture and heritage, welcoming literature enthusiasts from across the region.
On February 3, a special Saraswati Puja procession will be held, where students from various institutions will participate in traditional attire, adding a cultural charm to the event.
The session will also feature spectacular cultural performances, with renowned artists taking the stage.
On January 31, local artists will mark the opening celebrations. On February 1, performances by Pulak Banerjee, Mithun Dhar, and Bipin Chawdang, on February 2, a mix of classical and folk performances, including Satriya and Devdasi dances by award-winning artists and on February 4, grand finale featuring Achurya Barpathra, Priyanka Bharali, Joy Barua, and a stunning traditional costume exhibition.
The Assam government is actively contributing to the event’s preparations, with multiple departments working around the clock. Subcommittees have been established to oversee road construction, public health services, and a large-scale dining hall for attendees.
Major roads, including two key routes leading to Bhattadev Kshetra, are being developed to handle the heavy influx of visitors.
Established in 1917, the Asam Sahitya Sabha has been the apex literary body promoting Assamese literature and culture. The 77th biennial session promises to be a landmark event, seamlessly blending literature, science, and tradition, and setting the stage for a new era of intellectual and cultural engagement.
