Centre of Literature, Culture and Creativity – Lekhak Gaon: Padma Shri Dr. Sanjay
*Centre of Literature, Culture and Creativity – Lekhak Gaon: Padma Shri Dr. Sanjay
6 November 2025, Dehradun!* For centuries, Uttarakhand has been renowned for its sacred Char Dham—the spiritual circuit that draws millions of devotees each year. Today, the state is expanding its identity beyond spirituality, emerging as a beacon of literary, cultural, and artistic expression. In the years to come, Uttarakhand promises to become not only a land of faith but also a vibrant centre of intellectual and creative resurgence. Situated near Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, in the serene lap of the Himalayas, Lekhak Gaon—India’s first village dedicated entirely to writers—stands as a testament to this new cultural awakening. Conceived and nurtured under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and supported by the collective commitment of his family, Lekhak Gaon has evolved into a symbol of India’s creative and cultural renaissance.
The foundation of Lekhak Gaon was inaugurated on 24 October 2024 by the former President of India, Hon’ble Shri Ram Nath Kovind, in the distinguished presence of the Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, and the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami and Former Chief Minister and Union Minister Dr. Ramesh Pokhariyal 'Nishank'. Within a short span of one year, this visionary initiative has achieved an exceptional position in the national literary landscape, inspiring admiration and participation from diverse creative communities. From 3rd to 5th October 2025, Lekhak Gaon hosted an International Literature Festival that elevated its reputation to the global stage. The festival, inaugurated by Hon'ble Union Minister Shri Kiren Rjiju along with eminent dignitaries and concluded by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, witnessed the participation of distinguished writers, poets, artists, and thinkers from India and abroad.
Over three days, Lekhak Gaon transformed into a dynamic arena of dialogue, creativity, and cultural exchange, reaffirming its role as a living laboratory of literature and art. The concept of Lekhak Gaon embodies Dr. Nishank’s visionary belief in the confluence of literature, culture, and nature. In just two years, this initiative has achieved milestones that few would have anticipated. In the near future, Lekhak Gaon is poised to be recognized as the “fifth Dham” of Uttarakhand—an intellectual and literary pilgrimage destination that attracts writers, artists, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the world. Beyond its architectural and aesthetic charm, Lekhak Gaon represents a deeper philosophy. It is not merely a geographic location but a cultural ecosystem where words find resonance with nature, and creativity harmonizes with consciousness. Its role in promoting environmental stewardship, preserving folk traditions, and fostering emerging literary and artistic talent makes it a model of sustainable cultural development. I have been associated with Lekhak Gaon since its conceptual stage and I have had the privilege of witnessing its journey from vision to reality.
My association with Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ spans over twenty-five years—a relationship built on shared ideals of education, service, and cultural enrichment. His leadership and the dedicated involvement of his family ensure that Lekhak Gaon’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of writers and thinkers. Looking ahead, Lekhak Gaon is poised to transcend its identity as a hub of literature and art to become a pioneering centre for AYUSH, cultural tourism, and environmental conservation. It stands today as a shining example of how creativity, culture, and consciousness can coexist in harmony with nature—reflecting the timeless spirit of Uttarakhand and the enduring soul of Indian civilization.
