With a renewed commitment to promoting Bangla language, literature, arts, and culture across North America and connecting younger generations to their Bengali roots and heritage, the 16th North American Literary and Cultural Conference 2026 will be held in Indiana on July 24 and 25.
The two-day colorful event is being organized by Indiana-based cultural organization Shikor and will take place at the Noblesville 4-H Fairgrounds and Event Center in Noblesville, Indiana. Organizers say the conference will bring together distinguished writers, poets, artists, journalists, researchers, and cultural figures from across the United States and around the world.
According to the organizers, the primary goal of the conference is not only to strengthen the global presence of Bangla language and culture but also to introduce Bengali identity and heritage to younger generations growing up in the diaspora.
One of the special guests at the conference will be Anindita Kazi, granddaughter of Bangladesh’s National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Other guests include the Honorary Consul General of Bangladesh, the Consul General of India in Chicago, the President of the North American Bangla Language and Culture Council, and several prominent members of the
Bengali diaspora.
The list of expected guests also includes noted academic Abdul Chowdhury, cultural figure Jaya Barua, community leader Iqbal Hossain, writer and poet Mustak Ahmed, educator Shirin Siddiqui, and businessman Shah Alam, among others.
The first day’s program will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, featuring literary discussions with invited poets, writers, and scholars, a children’s poetry recitation competition, a traditional pitha competition, and cultural performances by local artists.
The second day’s activities will start at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, with an opening ceremony, guest introductions and brief remarks, a special performance by Anindita Kazi, performances by artists from various states, an awards ceremony, and a grand musical finale.
Throughout both days, attendees will also enjoy a book fair, photography and art exhibitions, displays of traditional Bengali clothing and crafts, and a wide variety of authentic Bengali cuisine. Organizers say the event is designed not just as a conference, but as a vibrant community gathering for Bengalis across North America.
Conference Convener Azad Hossain said, “This initiative is our collective effort to preserve and celebrate Bangla language and culture in the diaspora. Our goal is to keep the younger generation connected to their roots.”
Joint Conveners Dilruba Amin Mita and Ranjan Ray added that this year’s conference has been thoughtfully designed to weave together literature, culture, music, art, and the shared experiences of immigrant life. They invited everyone to attend with family and friends.
Over the years, the North American Literary and Cultural Conference has earned recognition as one of the most respected gatherings celebrating Bangla language and heritage in the diaspora. Organizers and participants believe this year’s Indiana conference will add a new chapter to that proud tradition.
