November 2025 I Nainital, Uttarakhand
About Us
Himalayan Echoes is an annual boutique festival held in Nainital, now entering its 10th edition. Founded by Janhavi Prasada and Namita Gokhale, the event is under the aegis of Porcupine Media Private Limited. The festival is deeply rooted in the cultural and ecological life of the Himalayas. Set against the backdrop of coniferous forests at Abbotsford Estate, it brings together storytellers, artists, musicians, thinkers, and environmental voices from across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and beyond. Over two immersive days, audiences engage in literature, conversations, culinary traditions, and music — all while reflecting on the changing climate and the fragile beauty of mountain life.
Mission
To create a meaningful cultural dialogue from the Himalayas — one that celebrates storytelling, fosters environmental awareness, amplifies local voices, and builds bridges across borders. Himalayan Echoes aims to preserve the literary and ecological heritage of the region while inviting new perspectives on sustainability, identity, and the arts.
Our Advisors
Writer, publisher and festival director, Namita is a literary genius from Kumaon and has authored over 20 books. Her acclaimed debut novel, Paro: Dreams of Passion, was published in 1984. The latest book, Never Never Land is set in the Kumaon landscape. She is the founder and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival.
A cultural entrepreneur dedicated to the Himalayan region, she has curated nine editions of this trans-Himalayan dialogue platform. A published author on Gandhi, she promotes regional art, heritage, culture and the environment in Uttarakhand. She actively engages in India-Sweden relations, focusing on sustainability, climate action & Himalayan geopolitics. A former journalist with The Pioneer, ANI/Reuters, BBC, & HTV Wales, she founded Porcupine Media to drive impactful storytelling.
Kapil hails from the world of advertising and represents his award winning company - Tree Design as a co-founder in New Delhi. But his heart is also set in the mountains of Kumaon where he spends his out of office days in peace and serenity. His understanding of brands and giving them shape and life is borne from that serenity. He is also committed to the cause of working for social change in the remote regions and making a value driven impact in peoples lives.
An advertising, marketing, media and communications maverick, started his career more than 4 decades ago. Was at Lintas, JWT, CEO - TBWA Anthem and CEO - Percept. Managing Director of Creatigies Communications which he founded 22 years ago. Poet, photographer, writer, sports nut, traveller, foodie, has contributed to many publications over the years. He is an alumni of the University of Allahabad.
Ambreen Khan believes that the world only seeks innovative minds. She dabbles with diverse work interests - that offer her opportunities to keep her self motivated and moving ahead! In her current role – as the communications head for The Indian Express- she also attempts to craft & curate programmatic campaigns that give their readers a wider range of information. Based out of Delhi, she is also associated with IHCL for collaborations & brand makeover.
Mahima practices law in New Delhi, after having studied and lived internationally, bringing a unique perspective of diversity and adventure to Himalayan Echoes. Working for inclusivity, she contributes philanthropically to promote education for children in remote areas of Uttarakhand. She reads extensively, hikes on challenging terrain, and is an all-weather runner!
Mountain Keepers
Sukhmoy G Majumdar, a System Analyst at the Advocate General's Office, Uttarakhand High Court, is also the Technical Director of TAAL Channel. A passionate documentary filmmaker and photographer, he specializes in birds, landscapes, and candid shots. An outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys rock climbing, Himalayan treks, and writing Urdu poetry.
Ankita Singhal is a lawyer, currently practicing in Allahabad, appearing in the High Court and other forums. A keen traveler, she is also an active member of Sahyog, an NGO which works towards the protection of child rights and women empowerment.
Shiveshwar Singh was born and raised in Nainital. After 35 years in advertising with Mudra, Rediffusion, FCB, his last stint was with Innoceam as their National Creative Head. He now enjoys running his homestay Clifton Cottage and playing tennis.
Nikhil is an interior space and equipment designer. He spends his time in Kumaon and is a keen walker in the forests, trekker and a storyteller.
Areeb Khan, is our youngest team member currently pursuing his studies in Hospitality Management at the Kumaon University (The Hermitage) Nainital. He is highly creative and has a keen eye for photography.
Pakhi Pande is currently pursuing her master's in English from Kumaun University and has done her bachelor's in French and English from Delhi University. She likes to teach young kids in her free time. Apart from reading, she enjoys occasional treks and walks in and around the hills.