Mohali, Feb.04, 2026:-CGC University Mohali hosted the two-day official literary festival 'Sahityam 2026' with great enthusiasm and grandeur. The festival emerged as a vibrant platform for intellectual discourse, cultural celebration, and national dialogue, dedicated to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat'.
Students, academicians, writers, and intellectuals actively participated in the literary festival, contributing to thought-provoking discussions, cultural expressions, and meaningful national conversations. The two-day event reflected the university's commitment to nurturing creativity, leadership, and a progressive mindset among students in alignment with the vision of a developed India.
The festival was formally inaugurated by Hon'ble Chief Minister of Haryana, Mr. Nayab Singh Saini, who in his address emphasized that the vision of Viksit Bharat is firmly rooted in education, youth empowerment, and innovation. He highlighted universities as key agents of idea creation and nation-building.
Renowned public figure and India's first woman IPS officer Dr. Kiran Bedi inspired students with her address on discipline and public service. On this occasion, she also launched the 'Kiran Bedi Leadership Learning Program', aimed at nurturing ethical and responsible future leaders.
A mega book launch was another highlight of the festival, celebrating literature as both the conscience and catalyst of social transformation. Promoting the startup ecosystem, several startups were honored with funding support — EDS Wagon Tech received ₹10 lakh from IIT Madras, Tank Health App was awarded ₹6.5 lakh by Startup Punjab, and Vidyak Vedi received a seed grant of ₹3 lakh.
Adding cultural richness to the event, special discussions on Punjabi literature and music were held featuring eminent personalities such as Dr. Harminder Singh Bedi, Malkit Rauni, Bunty Bains, Jasbir Jassi, and Jagdeep Singh Warring. The festival concluded on a high note with soulful musical performances by Afsana Khan and Aadi.
Internationally honored 'Father of Education' awardee, CGC University Chancellor Raspal Singh Dhaliwal, stated that Sahityam aims to nurture critical thinkers who can lead the nation with intellect and purpose. Managing Director Arsh Dhaliwal added that the festival serves as a dynamic platform that takes education beyond classrooms to shape future leaders.
Several eminent personalities including Ashok Kumar, IPS (Retd.), former DGP Uttarakhand and Vice Chancellor, Sports University of Haryana; editor and anchor Navjot Randhawa; Umang Jindal, CEO, Homeland Group; and Ashish Kumar Chaudhary, Indian international boxer and Olympian, were also present, making the event truly memorable.