Vidhana Soudha to Host First-Ever Book, Cultural, and Food Festival

Bengaluru, Karnataka – In a groundbreaking move, the iconic Vidhana Soudha, the seat of the Karnataka State Legislature, is set to transform into a vibrant hub of literature, culture, and gastronomy. From February 27th to March 3rd, 2025, this architectural marvel will host its first-ever book, cultural, and food festival, promising a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.  

This unprecedented initiative, spearheaded by the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, aims to celebrate the rich literary and cultural heritage of the state while also fostering a deeper connection between the public and the legislative body. The festival is expected to feature a diverse range of activities, including a grand book fair, engaging literary discussions, captivating cultural performances, and a delectable array of culinary delights.  

A Celebration of Literature and Knowledge

At the heart of the festival lies a sprawling book fair, showcasing a vast collection of books in Kannada, English, and other languages. With over 150 stalls, the fair will cater to diverse literary tastes, offering everything from classic literature and contemporary fiction to academic texts and children’s books.  

A significant portion of the book fair will be dedicated to Kannada literature, highlighting the works of renowned Kannada authors and promoting the rich literary tradition of the state. The festival will also provide a platform for emerging writers to showcase their works, with dedicated stalls for new releases and opportunities for authors to interact with readers.  

In addition to the book fair, the festival will feature a series of literary discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions with eminent writers, scholars, and intellectuals. These events will provide a platform for thought-provoking conversations on various literary topics, encouraging intellectual engagement and fostering a love for reading.  

A Cultural Extravaganza

The festival will not be confined to literature alone. It will also be a vibrant celebration of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage, with a diverse range of cultural performances scheduled throughout the five-day event.  

Visitors can look forward to captivating music and dance performances, traditional folk art displays, and theatrical presentations showcasing the state’s diverse cultural traditions. The evenings will come alive with cultural programs, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and entertain the audience.  

A Culinary Journey

No celebration in Karnataka is complete without a culinary experience, and the festival at Vidhana Soudha will be no exception. A dedicated food zone will offer a wide array of traditional Karnataka delicacies, as well as popular dishes from other parts of India and the world.

Visitors will have the opportunity to savor the diverse flavors of Karnataka cuisine, from the spicy delights of the Malnad region to the subtle sweetness of Mysore cuisine. The food festival will be a treat for food lovers, offering a gastronomic journey through the state’s rich culinary landscape.

A Unique Initiative

The decision to host this festival at Vidhana Soudha is a unique and significant move. It not only opens the doors of this iconic building to the public but also symbolizes the connection between the legislative body and the people of Karnataka.

The festival is expected to attract a large number of visitors, including book lovers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and families. It is envisioned as an annual event, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Bengaluru and promoting the state’s rich heritage.

Public Participation

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has invited suggestions from the public for the name and logo of the festival, encouraging active participation in this initiative. The public can submit their suggestions via email or WhatsApp, contributing to the creation of a festival that truly reflects the spirit of Karnataka.  

A Milestone Event

The book, cultural, and food festival at Vidhana Soudha is poised to be a milestone event in Karnataka’s cultural calendar. It is a celebration of literature, culture, and cuisine, bringing together people from all walks of life. This festival is not just an event; it is an experience, a journey through the heart and soul of Karnataka.