Bhubaneswar, Nov 27: Renowned poet, lyricist, dialogue writer and Padma Bhushan awardee Javed Akhtar, often hailed as the “Magician of Words,” will be conferred with the prestigious SOA Literary Award 2025 for his lifelong contributions to Indian literature and cinema, officials said on Thursday.

The honour will be conferred during the inauguration of the third SOA Literary Festival at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) University on November 29, they added.

Prestigious Recognition

The SOA Literary Award is presented annually to distinguished personalities who have made remarkable contributions to literature in any Indian language recognized by the Constitution. Akhtar will receive a citation, a silver idol of Goddess Saraswati, an uttariya (ceremonial scarf), and a cash prize of Rs7 lakh.

Akhtar’s Legacy

Son of eminent Urdu poet Jan Nisar Akhtar and writer Safia Akhtar, Javed Akhtar represents seven generations of literary tradition. His works have enriched modern India’s cultural and emotional landscape, while his lyrics have elevated Indian cinema. Akhtar has been honoured with five National Film Awards, fifteen Filmfare Awards, the Padma Shri (1999), Padma Bhushan (2007), and the Sahitya Akademi Award (2014). His poetry collections Tarkash and Lava are widely acclaimed and translated into multiple Indian and foreign languages.

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Festival Theme and Participation

The two-day SOA Literary Festival, organized by the Centre for Preservation, Propagation and Restoration of Ancient Culture and Heritage of India (PRACHINA), will be held on November 29–30 at SOA University. This year’s theme is “Culture, Creativity and Artificial Intelligence.”

More than 100 eminent writers, poets, novelists, translators, publishers, artists, playwrights, and media personalities from across India will participate. The festival will feature 30 sessions, including discussions, readings, and cultural events.

Akhtar’s Message

In a video message, Akhtar expressed his happiness at receiving the award and extended best wishes to the organizers and participants of the festival. He emphasized his excitement to join the celebration of literature in Bhubaneswar.