Hassan Literature Festival Children's Edition Fosters Literary Culture
The city of Hassan recently witnessed a vibrant and inspiring celebration of books and ideas as students, parents, teachers, and citizens gathered for the inaugural Hassan Literature Festival – Children's Edition. This landmark event, organized by the city-based Vijaya School, took place over two days at its campus, creating a much-needed space dedicated exclusively to children's literature beyond traditional textbooks and examinations.
Inauguration and Vision for Community Engagement
The festival was inaugurated by author Girish Rao Hatwar (Jogi), alongside HB Madan Gowda, vice-president of the Karnataka Union of Working Journalists, Bengaluru. In his address, Jogi highlighted the importance of schools opening their vision and activities to the larger community, noting that such initiatives help foster a strong literary culture. He emphasized to students that literature plays a vital role in nurturing both the mind and the heart, encouraging them to cultivate reading as an integral part of their daily lives.
Jogi further explained that over the two days, children would have the opportunity to meet and interact with authors who write passionately for young readers, providing a unique platform for engagement and inspiration.
Engaging Sessions and Author Interactions
The first day of the festival saw enthusiastic participation from over 500 students, who engaged in a variety of literary activities. Nandita Rao conducted an engaging read-aloud session from her book ‘Buffalo Baby', captivating the young audience with storytelling. Meanwhile, Anupama K Benachinamaradi presented an interactive session on Kempi, further enriching the children's experience with cultural and literary insights.
On the second day, the festival continued with impactful sessions designed to broaden young minds. Writer and activist Vaani Periyodi led a dialogue titled ‘Constitution for Children', aimed at helping children understand constitutional values in simple and accessible terms. Additionally, storyteller BA Apoorva conducted storytelling and creative writing workshops, inspiring students to experiment with their own ideas and express their creativity.
Community Response and Future Implications
Parents expressed overwhelming appreciation for the festival, describing it as a refreshing and meaningful experience. One parent remarked, "We never had such a platform in Hassan to meet authors and explore books like this," highlighting the event's significance in filling a gap in the city's cultural and educational landscape.
The Hassan Literature Festival – Children's Edition not only provided entertainment but also served as a catalyst for promoting literacy and critical thinking among the youth. By bringing together authors, educators, and the community, it underscored the importance of literature in personal development and societal growth, setting a precedent for future literary events in the region.
