The National Capital is
all set to host its extraordinary annual celebration of literary brilliance as
India’s “Sabse Tez” news channel, Aaj Tak, brings the sixth edition of ‘Sahitya
Aaj Tak’ to Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium from November 22 to 24.
On November 23, the Honorable
President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will take center-stage to honor
luminaries and emerging talents at the ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Samman’.
At the heart of this year’s
celebration is the conferment of the prestigious ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti
Lifetime Achievement Award’ to Gulzar, one of India’s most iconic poets,
lyricists, and filmmakers. A legend whose works transcend generations, Gulzar
has shaped India’s literary and cinematic identity with masterpieces like ‘Raavi
Paar,’ ‘Raat, Chaand aur Main,’ and unforgettable films such as ‘Aandhi,’
‘Mausam,’ and ‘Maachis.’
Born in 1934 in Dina village (now in
Pakistan), Gulzar—whose real name is Sampooran Singh Kalra—defied humble
beginnings and early hardships to rise as a creative genius regarded and
respects across the world. His journey from being a car mechanic to a literary
giant is a testament to his passion and perseverance. A Padma Bhushan awardee,
Gulzar’s accolades include the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, an Oscar, a Grammy, and
the Sahitya Akademi Award. As part of this honor, he will receive ₹11 lakh, a
commemorative plaque, and a citation, reaffirming his status as a beacon of
literary excellence, and the pride of all Indians.
The ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Samman’ will
also recognize outstanding contributions across seven other categories:
Best Work (Male Author)
Best Work (Female Author)
Popular Author Award
Indian Language Literature Award
Emerging Talent Awards
Winners, carefully selected by a
distinguished jury, will be awarded cash prizes ranging from ₹50,000 to
₹1,00,000, alongside commemorative plaques and citations.
The ‘Aaj Tak Sahitya Jagriti Samman’
was launched last year in collaboration with the Jagriti Foundation as part of
‘Sahitya Aaj Tak’, now India’s largest literary festival celebrating the
richness of Indian languages and literature. This year’s edition promises to
elevate the festival’s legacy with thought-provoking sessions, cultural
dialogues, and a distinguished gathering of literary minds. No festival in
India brings literary icons and their admirers together like ‘Sahitya Aaj Tak’.
Last year, the Lifetime Achievement
Award was presented to celebrated poet and screenwriter Javed Akhtar by Lok
Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla. With President Droupadi Murmu honoring this year’s
winners, the event stands as a powerful tribute to India’s literary heritage
and a momentous occasion in the nation’s cultural calendar.
"The "Sahitya Jagriti
Samman" award reaffirms our group's deep commitment to Indian literature.
Through the "Sahitya Jagriti Samman," we have been honoring the
writers and their contributions who have enriched society and culture with
their works.
We express our gratitude to the
Honorable President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who will be present on this special
occasion to present the 'Sahitya Jagriti Samman.' Her support makes this award
ceremony even more prestigious".