Mary Therese Kurkalang

Mary Therese Kurkalang is a cultural curator and social researcher with three decades of experience working in publishing, art & culture and the social sector; across India and internationally.

An independent consultant since 2012, she has worked extensively across the Eastern Himalayan region in India. A certified Art Management Trainer, she trains and lectures on cultural narratives, tribal identity and project management within these communities.

In 2022 she co-curated a programme and exhibition focussing on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Himalayan Region in a partnership with UNESCO & Royal Enfield Social Mission, India. She was Director of the Shillong Literary Festival (2021, 2022, 2023).

She is currently directing the Brahmaputra Literature Festival (2024-) and curated this edition of the Sikkim Literature Festival (2025). She is co-founder of the Rachna Books Writers Residency (launched 2023); is Senior Literary Consultant, Books and Special Projects at Writer's Side (2025-); and Senior Consultant at The Himalayan Fellowship (2023-).