LALITPUR: Former Prime Minister Sushila Karki inaugurated the Fourth Kathmandu Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) in Lalitpur on Friday, marking the start of a two-day gathering of writers, scholars, artists, and cultural figures from across South Asia.

Held at Hotel Himalaya, the festival is centered on the theme “Beyond Borders: South Asian Literature in a Changing World.” Organizers said the event aims to promote literary, cultural, and intellectual exchange among South Asian countries and strengthen regional dialogue.

Festival Director Ranjana Niraula said literature serves as a bridge connecting people beyond geographical and linguistic boundaries. The festival features panel discussions, keynote addresses, poetry recitals, book launches, workshops, cultural performances, and interactive sessions.

Participants include noted South Asian personalities such as Ila Arun, Pratibha Ray, Piyush Mishra, and Vikas Swarup, among others. The Kathmandu edition of the festival has been held annually since 2022.