In the heart of Prayagraj's vibrant cultural festival, Bazm-e-Virasat, a quiet corner offered a profound contrast to the usual bustle. The Reading and Writing Corner, curated by the club Azad Reads, became a sanctuary for introspection and anonymous connection, inviting visitors to engage in a deeply personal dialogue with time and strangers.
A Letter to Your Future Self: A Time Capsule of Emotions
The central attraction of the stall was an evocative initiative: writing a letter to one's own future. Participants were encouraged to pen down their thoughts, aspirations, fears, or promises, seal them in envelopes, and hand them over to Azad Reads. The club's founder, Raghav, revealed the poignant plan: these handwritten letters will be mailed back to their authors exactly one year later, on December 15, 2026.
Raghav explained the powerful response this idea generated. In today's fast-paced world of instant digital communication, the tangible act of writing a letter meant to travel through time resonated deeply. Many found the experience unexpectedly moving, carefully choosing words for their future selves, writing either in a rush of emotion or with thoughtful pauses. Together, these sealed envelopes formed a collective time capsule, capturing not just individual sentiments but also the shared mood of the present moment.
The "Take A Note. Leave A Note" Wall: A Silent Dialogue
Another engaging feature that captivated attendees was the interactive "Take A Note. Leave A Note" wall. It featured twenty envelopes, each containing an anonymous message from a previous visitor. The simple rule was to read a note and replace it with one of your own. This exchange quickly blossomed into something both playful and deeply personal.
For some, it was a moment of serendipity, finding uncannily relevant words of comfort, wit, or reflection. For others, it evolved into a silent, ongoing dialogue across the festival, where questions left behind were answered by unknown hands. The messages ranged from poetic reflections and words of encouragement to light-hearted humour, creating a tapestry of shared human experience.
Eminent Personalities Join the Thoughtful Exchange
The unique concept of the corner drew a diverse and notable crowd. Among those who visited and participated were several of Prayagraj's eminent personalities, including high-ranking officials and noted Bollywood director Anubhav Sinha. The stall also attracted international interest, with visitors like artist Amei Anders from San Francisco, USA, taking part in the letter-writing and note exchange.
The Azad Reads corner successfully carved out a contemplative space within the cultural extravaganza. It gently pulled people away from performances and displays, offering a rare opportunity for quiet reflection and anonymous connection, proving that even in a festival full of colour and sound, there is a powerful appetite for moments of thoughtful silence and personal expression.
