Dehradun, Oct 29 — Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday remembered former Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee's contribution to literature, saying that the latter taught that words also can become "powerful instruments of nation-building", during the closing ceremony of the 'Lekhak Gaon International Festival 2026'.
Addressing a gathering at the event, Chief Minister Dhami called the festival as a major centre for literature, art and music
He recalled the contribution of former PM late Vajpayee, under whose leadership Uttarakhand was created as a separate state.
Remembering Vajpayee as a "true practitioner of words", CM Dhami said that the former Prime Minister was "blessed with the grace of Goddess Saraswati".
"He (former PM late Atal Bihari Vajpayee) possessed the firmness of the mountains, the depth of the Ganga, and the grandeur of the Himalayas. Had he been present today, he would have been delighted to witness the realisation of the 'Lekhak Gaon' concept," the Chief Minister added.
The Uttarakhand Chief Minister added: "Atal Ji taught us that words, too, can become powerful instruments of nation-building... the concept of 'Lekhak Gaon' is not limited to a physical structure of bricks and mortar. Rather, it symbolises ideas that guide society, shapes the future of younger generations, and inspires them to move in the right direction."
He also said that 'Lekhak Gaon' is not merely a modern settlement but a "place for the cultivation of ideas".
"Here, words take root like seeds and flourish. It is a space where culture enriches our identity. In a culturally rich state like Uttarakhand, 'Lekhak Gaon' is not only providing a platform for local artists, talents, and literary figures but is also establishing the state's presence on the global literary map," CM Dhami added.
He noted that the event helps future generations remain connected to their roots while guiding them toward the future.
"Therefore, the concluding session of the international festival marks not the end of an event but the beginning of a new creative journey that will continue to grow," he said.
Chief Minister Dhami mentioned that more than 60 countries are participating in this event through various platforms.
"The former Chief Ministers of Uttarakhand have always been a source of guidance and blessings," he said.
Representatives from more than 60 countries participated in the international festival.
The five-day event featured numerous programmes where participants shared their views on literature and art.
Several scholars and experts from India and across the world associated with these fields took part in the festival.