Dehradun
The 7th edition of Shabdavali Valley of Words inaugurated with Anoop Nautiyal, who welcomed guests and Governor of Uttarakhand Lt. Gen Gurmit Singh, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM(Retd), which was followed by Dr. Sanjeev Chopra elevating the introduction of VoW’s work and efforts stemming from Dehradun, but branching all over India.
The session started off to the symphonious hymn of the National Anthem, performed by the differently abled students of Bajaj Institute of Learning, leaving the audience spellbound. 
The gathering also witnessed the launching of two books- “Gajju Chalne Laga” written by Retd. IAS officer, Anita Bhatnagar Jain as well as ” Administration in India by IAS officer Mr. Ashish Srivastava and Mrs Iva Ashish Srivastava.
Valley of Words also launched Shabdavali Smarika collection of 15 Hindi book reviews across genres and The Book Review, an assimilation of 40 reviews by English Authors across the country.
Anita Bhatnagar’s book ‘Gajju Chalne Laga’ emphasised the rights to a safe, good life belongs to animals and the natural ecosystem. She mentioned that natural ecosystems are not a canvas waiting for man’s tainted industrialisation, this sentiment got a lot of cheers from the audience as well.
Words about the dichotomy of technology and tradition reverberated throughout the venue, inspiring students in the audience. The echoes of applause continued as the efforts and hard work of the Indian military service were appreciated.
Governor gave a passionate speech, which was reciprocated with cheers from the young students in attendance. Highlighting the significance of Lord Ganesha’s blessings and the enduring value of tradition within the festival, his words resonated deeply. He then emphasized the vital role of words in building bridges of understanding and connection.
Governor Lt.Gen Gurmit Singh PVSM, YUSM, AVSM, VSM, encouraged our audience, we would like to let his words inspire you—
“Harness the power of your words, and realise your self worth!”
Governor also urged the attendees to pay tribute to the defining efforts of the Indian martyrs and soldiers, on this day celebrating words, art, and culture!
But VoW’s canvas extends far beyond the written word. It celebrates the human spirit in all its facets. Witness the fiery passion of environmental activists, the visionary lens of filmmakers, the stoic wisdom of historians, the evocative strokes of illustrators, the light-capturing genius of photographers, the soul-stirring verses of poets, the unwavering courage of military leaders, the firebrand spirit of newsmakers, and the boundless creativity of writers – all weaving their magic under the VoW banner.
A highlight was the launch of Aftab Seth’s “A Diplomat’s Garden,” chaired by the esteemed former Foreign Secretary, Shyam Saran. This session was a masterclass in navigating the intricate landscapes of diplomacy and personal growth, offering captivating tales of intrigue, adventure, and the quiet wisdom cultivated in the gardens of experience.
Another riveting session, “Administration in India: Challenges and Innovation,” chaired by V Srinivas, saw distinguished panelists dissecting the intricate fabric of governance. Listening to Iva Ashish Srivastava, Shailesh Bagauli, Parag Gupta, Ravinath Raman, and Ashish Kumar Srivastava was an engaging, vibrant discourse, celebrating intellectual vigor and the power of diverse perspectives to build bridges between theory and practice.
In “Looking beyond Chipko,” our panelists transcended conventional environmental discussions. Chaired by the legendary Chandi Prasad Bhatt and curated by Rajendra Dobhal. The audience embarked on a profound journey with panelists Ruchi Badola and P S Negi as they unravelled the tapestry of ecological ethics, and explored the rich legacy of the Chipko Movement while contemplating the future of environmental stewardship in an ever-evolving world.
Notably, VoW remains its true self – free and open to all. Come, immerse yourself in the power of words, engage in vibrant discussions, and let the kaleidoscope of voices wash over you. This is not just a festival; it’s a movement, a call to arms for anyone who believes in the transformative power of storytelling, a celebration of human expression through the lens of Indian literature and arts.
So, readers, students, academics, and fellow travelers –VoW welcomes you to, become a part of this vibrant symphony of voices, this literary feast for all senses, and spread the word, for VoW is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of the human spirit that resoundes to spread the word—and beyond!
