On weekend mornings across Ahmedabad, a quiet revolution is taking place. Enthused readers are gathering in parks, cafes, and by the riverfront, exploring their favourite books together in a peaceful, communal setting. This growing trend of silent reading sessions offers introverts the perfect blend of 'me time' and community, while providing others a refreshing way to de-stress and recharge their minds.
More Than Just Reading: Building a Community
The concept, inspired by global movements like the Silent Book Club, is about more than just turning pages. Psychologists highlight that such community reading helps improve intrapersonal awareness by allowing time for self-reflection, while gently building interpersonal bonds through shared space and subtle social interaction.
Priya Sogani, the founder of the Pocket Diary Book Club (PDBC), identified a gap in the city's literary scene. She noticed that existing clubs were focused on authors and book launches, rather than being reader-centric. We started this club three years ago and within the first month, we got 80+ applications, which was a pleasant surprise, she says. To make the experience unique, PDBC incorporated elements like post-reading chai gupshup (informal chats).
Their innovative approach doesn't stop there. We ensure that reading is not an isolated activity; we have read books while river rafting, during safaris, etc., Priya adds. The club has exciting annual winter events planned, including Christmas Eve gatherings, visits to the Thol Bird Sanctuary, treasure hunts in the old city, and initiatives in association with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and the Ahmedabad World Heritage City Trust.
A Lively and Peaceful Ambience for All
Priyanshi Gawarvala, founder of Reading Room, was motivated by her experiences studying abroad. She wanted to recreate that cafe reading culture in Ahmedabad and celebrate reading collectively. I didn’t want to create a book club where everyone was forced to read one book, she explains. Our purpose is to come together, read and build community.
Their sessions typically involve one hour of dedicated reading followed by an hour of socializing or activities. This format allows introverts to engage at their own comfort level. Priyanshi credits online communities like BookTok and Bookstagram for generating hype around reading, helping people with busy lives get back into the habit. Reading in a lively and peaceful ambience has helped many readers to unwind and get back to reading at least once a week, she notes.
Popular Reading Hubs in the City
These silent reading communities have turned several locations into informal hubs for book lovers. The most popular spots include:
- Parimal Garden
- Sabarmati Riverfront
- Reading Room by ADG
- Law Garden
- Symphony Forest Park
- Thol Bird Sanctuary
- Various niche cafes
- MJ Library
This movement demonstrates a beautiful synergy between individual contemplation and community spirit, proving that in the bustling city of Ahmedabad, silence can indeed speak volumes.
