The Solstice 2024, held on August 11th at the India International Centre in New Delhi, marked a memorable milestone for the literary community. This year’s conference, hosted by Ukiyoto Publishing, celebrated the art of literature and expanded its horizons by moving the event to Delhi for the first time. As General Secretary of The Federation of Indian Publishers, I am honoured to reflect on this remarkable gathering and highlight the organisation’s achievements behind it.

Ukiyoto Publishing: A Beacon of Literary Excellence

Since its inception in 2019, Ukiyoto Publishing has quickly risen to prominence as a traditional publishing house with a global impact. With a community of over 5,000 domestic and international authors, Ukiyoto has published over 5,000 books across a diverse range of genres. Their extensive distribution network spans over 70 countries, ensuring that their titles reach readers around the globe. The company has printed over 300,000 books in paperback and hardback formats, reinforcing its commitment to quality and accessibility.

Ukiyoto’s reach extends beyond traditional publishing. Their services include translating over 44 languages, allowing their books to transcend linguistic barriers. They also enrich storytelling through comics, animations, and audiobooks, demonstrating their dedication to evolving. Their flagship event, the Kolkata Literary Carnival, has become a celebrated occasion in the literary calendar, bringing together authors, musicians, and academics in the culturally vibrant “City of Joy.”

A New Chapter: Solstice 2024

Solstice 2024 was the third edition of this annual conference, following successful events in Kolkata. The decision to move the conference to New Delhi was significant, reflecting Ukiyoto’s growing influence and the need to engage with a broader audience. The India International Centre provided a fitting backdrop for this prestigious event, offering a blend of tradition and modernity that resonated with the conference’s themes.

The conference was graced by eminent dignitaries and literary figures from across the country, all contributing to the event’s success. As the guest of honour, I had the privilege of addressing the audience on the initiatives by The Federation of Indian Publishers and the impact of book promotion policies on society. My speech emphasised the transformative power of book publishing and its role in fostering qualitative change.

A highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, where I had the honour of presenting accolades to deserving authors. This conference segment celebrated individual achievements and underscored Ukiyoto’s commitment to recognising and supporting literary talent.

The Driving Force: Arjun Chaudhuri

The success of Solstice 2024 can be attributed in large part to the efforts of Arjun Chaudhuri, Director of Ukiyoto Publishing. Arjun’s expertise in business and corporate strategy and extensive experience in management consulting and business development were instrumental in orchestrating a flawless event. His vision and leadership ensured that the conference ran smoothly, with every detail meticulously managed.

Arjun’s dedication to creating an engaging and productive environment for attendees was evident throughout the conference. His warm hospitality and organisational prowess contributed to the event’s success, showcasing an impressive array of talent and creativity.

Looking Forward

Solstice 2024 was more than just a conference; it celebrated literature, innovation, and the spirit of collaboration. Ukiyoto Publishing’s commitment to supporting authors and fostering literary talent was on full display, and the conference served as a testament to their dedication.

As we look ahead, it is clear that events like Solstice play a crucial role in advancing the literary landscape. They provide invaluable opportunities for authors to connect, share their work, and gain recognition. Ukiyoto Publishing’s continued efforts in this regard will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and enrichment of the literary community.

In conclusion, Solstice 2024 was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of literary engagement and the power of storytelling. It was an honour to be part of such a significant event and to witness the impact of Ukiyoto Publishing’s work firsthand. Here’s to many more years of celebrating literature and supporting the voices that shape our world.