Book lovers, storytellers, and culture enthusiasts in Dehradun have something special to look forward to this month. The city is hosting the first-ever Ruskin Bond Festival on 24 May 2026 at Lekhak Gaon, India’s first writers’ village nestled near the foothills of Mussoorie.
Designed as a celebration of literature, cinema, music, and art, the festival draws inspiration from the timeless works and life of legendary author Ruskin Bond, whose stories have captured the beauty of the Himalayas and childhood nostalgia for generations.
The event promises much more than a traditional literary gathering. Visitors can expect a vibrant mix of panel discussions, live performances, storytelling experiences, and cultural conversations throughout the evening. One of the biggest highlights will be the screening of Mastery, an original cultural film exploring Bond’s creative journey and the relationship between literature and the arts.
Adding to the excitement, the festival lineup includes a keynote appearance by Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, live music by folk singer Meena Rana, and a storywriting contest organised in collaboration with Crossword Bookstores. Selected participants from the contest will also get an opportunity to interact with Ruskin Bond himself.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Lekhak Gaon, the festival aims to bring together readers, students, artists, educators, and anyone who loves meaningful storytelling. The venue’s peaceful hill-town setting perfectly reflects the landscapes that have shaped much of Bond’s writing over the years.
Organised by StoneX Global in collaboration with The Ruskin Bond Foundation, the festival is expected to become one of Dehradun’s most talked-about cultural events of the year.
Event: The Ruskin Bond Festival — A Celebration of Life and Literature
Date: 24 May 2026
Time: From 3:00 PM onwards
Venue: Lekhak Gaon, Dehradun
Highlights: Film screening, live music, literary talks, storytelling contest, cultural experiences
For anyone who grew up reading Ruskin Bond or simply wants to spend an evening surrounded by stories, art, and mountain charm, this festival could easily become one of Dehradun’s most memorable cultural experiences of 2026.