The Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF), one of India’s literary and cultural events, announced Indonesia as its official country partner for the upcoming edition of KLF being organized from 21 to 23 March 2025. This partnership aims to celebrate the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between Indonesia and India while paving the way for stronger bilateral relations through literature, arts, and cultural exchange.
Ina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi, the Ambassador of Indonesia to India will join as guest of honour, Indonesian novelist and essayist Mahfud Ikhwan, Undri – director of Cultural Promotion, the Indonesian Ministry of Culture will join as speaker at the festival.
As part of this collaboration, Indonesia’s cultural ensemble, Belantara Budaya Indonesia Foundation, will captivate audiences with mesmerizing performances showcasing the rich diversity of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. The foundation will present a series of symbolic traditional dances, including the Nusantara Medley Dance, Mandau Dance, Maumere Dance, Tor Tor Dance from North Sumatra, Solo Jaipong Dance from West Java, and Gelang Ro’om Dance from Madura, East Java.
Belantara Budaya Indonesia Foundation, renowned for promoting Indonesian culture globally, will lead the cultural delegation, highlighting the diverse traditions of the archipelago. This partnership is an opportunity to deepen cultural diplomacy, foster intercultural dialogue, and enhance people-to-people ties between India and Indonesia.
“We are honored to have Indonesia as our country partner, celebrating a vibrant culture that resonates deeply with India’s own rich heritage,” said Rashmi Ranjan Parida, founder director of Kalinga Literary Festival. “This partnership not only highlights the historical bond our countries share but also provides an incredible platform for fostering future collaborations across cultural, literary, and diplomatic spheres.”
Belantara Budaya Indonesia Foundation, representing Indonesia, will showcase performances reflecting Indonesia’s diverse and dynamic cultural tapestry. “Our participation at the Kalinga Literary Festival underscores our commitment to promoting Indonesian culture internationally,” said a spokesperson from the Belantara Budaya Indonesia Foundation. “We look forward to sharing our cultural heritage and forging stronger bonds with the Indian community through this remarkable platform.”
The event will host performances, workshops, and discussions featuring prominent Indonesian and Indian writers, cultural practitioners, and intellectuals, creating a dynamic space for cross-cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
