Staying connected to one’s roots is essential in the present times, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Friday as she inaugurated ‘Delhi Shabdotsav’, a three-day literature and cultural festival.

Ms. Gupta said, “Shabdotsav” symbolises India’s engagement with its past, present and future. “From the Vedic age to the digital era, India’s journey is reflected here,” she said, adding that the festival, based on the theme of ‘Bharat Abhyudaya’, underlines a future-oriented India rooted in its civilisational ethos. Stressing the importance of values along with progress, Ms. Gupta said that science and development must go hand in hand with culture. The festival, she added, offers a platform to connect younger generations with India’s traditions.

Minister for Culture Kapil Mishra said the festival is meant to counter false narratives. “This literature festival is a surgical strike on ideological terrorism, false history and the anti-religious mindset,” he said.