By: Abdul Rahman Baig, YaHind.Comdu
Dubai will once again become a vibrant centre of literary and cultural celebration as it hosts the 24th Indian Republic Day Kavi Sammelan & Mushaira on Saturday, 31 January 2026, at the distinguished Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan, Dubai.
Organised to commemorate the 77th Indian Republic Day, this celebrated literary gathering has, over more than two decades, evolved into one of the most prestigious Hindi–Urdu poetic forums outside India. The event reflects the enduring democratic values of India while celebrating its rich literary traditions through poetry that resonates across generations and geographies.
Founded and curated by Syed Salahuddin, the Indian Republic Day Kavi Sammelan & Mushaira has become a cultural landmark for the Indian diaspora in the UAE. Each year, poetry lovers, intellectuals, and cultural connoisseurs travel from across the globe to witness this unique confluence of words, emotions, and national pride, reaffirming Dubai’s position as a global crossroads for arts and culture.
The 2026 edition will be presided over by Syed Farzan Rizvi, lending further distinction to the evening. The poetic proceedings will be gracefully conducted by Prof. Dr. Nayyar Jalalpuri, Head of the Department of Urdu at Lucknow University, whose academic stature and literary insight continue to enrich the event.
An exceptional ensemble of acclaimed poets will take part in this year’s Kavi Sammelan and Mushaira, including Manzar Bhopali, Azm Shakri, Dr. Rama Singh, Prof. Nayyer Jalalpuri, Naghma Noor, Atul Ajnabi, Himanshi Babra, Saif Babar, Radhika Gupta, Aayushi Rakhecha, and Dr. Dilshad Gorakhpuri. Their participation promises an evening of profound expression, poetic excellence, and linguistic harmony, seamlessly blending Hindi and Urdu traditions on one stage.
A highlight of the celebration will be the unveiling of a special commemorative souvenir, continuing the event’s tradition of preserving contemporary poetry alongside reflections on the significance of India’s Republic Day. The publication is envisioned as a treasured literary keepsake for readers and collectors alike.
Speaking about the upcoming edition, Syed Salahuddin, Founder and Chief Organiser, said: “For twenty-four years, this platform has celebrated the spirit of India through poetry, dialogue, and cultural unity. That people travel from different parts of the world to be part of this evening in Dubai is both humbling and inspiring. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the UAE’s leadership, whose vision of inclusivity and cultural openness allows such traditions to flourish.”
The Indian Republic Day Kavi Sammelan & Mushaira 2026 stands as a testament to the power of literature in uniting communities, transcending borders, and celebrating shared heritage in the heart of Dubai.