By: Express News ServiceNew Delhi | January 3, 2026 07:57 AM IST 2 min readCM Rekha Gupta inaugurates Delhi Shabdotsav 2026, says India’s strong roots helped it rebuild after repeated invasions (File)Despite numerous invasions throughout history, India’s strong roots have enabled it to re-establish itself every time, said Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday while inaugurating the Delhi Shabdotsav 2026, a three-day cultural and literary festival, at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. “India has faced numerous invasions throughout history, with repeated attacks on its civilization, culture and education, yet its strong roots have enabled it to re-establish itself every time,” she said.Addressing the gathering, Gupta said the festival reflected India’s engagement with its past, present and future at the same time. She said the theme of the festival, Bharat Abhyudaya, underlined a vision of development rooted in civilisational values.“Balancing modernity with values is the greatest need of the present time. Science may be held in one hand, but culture and values must be held in the other with equal importance,” the CM said and added that platforms such as Shabdotsav can help connect younger generations with their cultural roots.Gupta said the festival would host the release of around 40 books, alongside classical dance performances, music, bhajans, poets’ conferences, open mic sessions and panel discussions.She added that the government intended to organise the festival annually and expand its scale in the coming years. The programme also includes publication stalls, cultural performances, youth forums and food stalls.The event was attended by Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra, Delhi Government’s Art, Culture, Language and Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, Art Secretary K Mahesh, RSS Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar, and representatives from publishing houses and cultural organisations.The three-day festival will conclude on January 4.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:delhiRekha Gupta