As November arrives in Bali, the island’s cultural capital of Ubud transforms into a gathering place for some of the world’s most celebrated authors, thinkers, and literary enthusiasts. The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival returns for another year of cross-cultural dialogue and literary exploration.

Aham Brahmasmi: The 2025 Theme

This year’s festival centers on the Sanskrit concept “Aham Brahmasmi” – translated as “I am the Universe.” This profound theme explores the relationship between the individual and the cosmos, recognizing that the universe’s creative potential is embodied in each person. It sets the stage for conversations that bridge personal experience with universal truths.

Stellar International Lineup

The 2025 festival brings together over 150 literary figures from more than 30 countries, creating Southeast Asia’s premier platform for literary exchange. Headlining this year’s event are:

  • Banu Mushtaq – Winner of the 2025 International Booker Prize and Indian women’s rights activist, author of “Heart Lamp”
  • Deepa Bhasthi – Co-winner of the 2025 International Booker Prize for her translation work
  • Jenny Erpenbeck – 2024 International Booker Prize winner for her novel “Kairos”

These internationally acclaimed authors join dozens of writers, activists, and performers for four days of panels, readings, workshops, and cultural exchanges.

Deep Dive into Balinese Culture

While international voices take center stage, UWRF 2025 also offers unprecedented opportunities to explore Bali’s rich heritage through specialized programs:

Culinary Walking Tours

On October 30, festival-goers can discover Ubud’s legendary eateries through an early morning walking tour, visiting:

  • Ibu Oka’s famous Babi Guling
  • Pak Rimpin’s Bebek Betutu
  • Pak Sanur’s Betutu Ayam
  • Concluding at the iconic Casa Luna

Sukawati Village Experience

October 31 takes participants to Sukawati, a village where food is woven into daily life rather than performance. Visitors witness the making of Bali’s staple dishes, from traditional tofu production to lawar preparation, and meet warung legends who have preserved culinary traditions for generations.

Balinese Language Lessons

Each morning, festival attendees can participate in “Breakfast & Learn” sessions with Cinta Bahasa, combining a delicious meal with essential Balinese phrases and cultural insights.

Celebrating Balinese Artists

A special tribute honors Cokorda Sawitri (Cok Sawitri), a beloved Balinese artist who channeled her activism through writing and performance. The program includes a documentary screening, readings of her works, and the launch of a collective book celebrating her legacy and continued influence on Balinese arts and activism.

Beyond the Panel Discussions

The festival extends well beyond traditional literary talks. Attendees can engage in:

  • Workshops covering everything from creative writing to traditional Balinese arts
  • Film screenings with Q&A sessions featuring directors
  • Music performances blending traditional and contemporary sounds
  • Art exhibitions showcasing local and international talent
  • Networking events connecting writers, publishers, and readers

Festival Venues and Accessibility

Events take place at various venues throughout Ubud, including:

  • Indus Restaurant
  • ARMA Museum
  • Various hotels and cultural centers
  • Outdoor spaces celebrating Ubud’s natural beauty

The festival maintains its commitment to accessibility, offering programs suitable for various budgets and interests. Many sessions are designed to accommodate both serious literary scholars and casual readers seeking cultural enrichment.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has become a significant contributor to Bali’s tourism calendar and local economy. Organized with substantial input from Ubud villagers and run by local workforce, the festival exemplifies community-driven cultural tourism.

Restaurants, accommodations, and local businesses experience increased activity during the festival period, while the event itself provides employment and showcases Ubud’s position as Bali’s intellectual and artistic hub.

Planning Your Visit

For those planning to attend:

Dates: October 29 – November 2, 2025
Location: Various venues throughout Ubud, Bali
Weather: Early wet season – expect occasional afternoon showers but pleasant mornings
Accommodation: Book early, as Ubud fills quickly during the festival
Registration: Check the official UWRF website for program details and ticketing

A Festival for Our Times

In an era of digital distraction and cultural fragmentation, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival offers something increasingly rare: a space for sustained, meaningful dialogue across geographical and cultural boundaries. The 2025 theme of “Aham Brahmasmi” resonates particularly strongly as the world grapples with questions of identity, connection, and humanity’s place in an interconnected universe.

Whether you’re a devoted bibliophile, a casual reader, or simply someone seeking deeper cultural engagement, UWRF 2025 promises four days of inspiration, learning, and connection in one of the world’s most enchanting settings.

As the festival unfolds across Ubud’s lush landscape, participants will experience not just literary celebration but a profound exploration of what it means to be human – individually unique yet universally connected. It’s precisely this blend of local authenticity and global perspective that has made the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival one of Asia’s most important cultural events.