Literary festival dedicates a day for children

The second day of the International Literary Festival on Monday turned into a celebration of children’s creativity, as the Children’s Literature Festival unfolded at the Changampuzha Mandiram. An entire day was dedicated exclusively to young readers and writers, an initiative hailed as a milestone.

“This is a great beginning to draw children into the world of literature,” said Pallyara Sreedharan, Director of the State Institute of Children’s Literature, who presided over the opening session. “Earlier, children had few platforms to showcase their writing. Today, with the support of social media, they have spaces to express themselves. But above all, one message remains — read, read, read.”

An engaging session, ‘Different Stars’ (Veritta Nakshatrangal), focussed on inclusivity. Conducted by writer Sherly Somasundaran and visually challenged poet Shadha Shanavas, it urged children to see diversity as strength. “If everyone thinks alike, individuality is lost. That’s why each of us must remain ourselves,” Ms. Shanavas told the young audience. Ms. Somasundaran blended storytelling, songs, and games to make the session interactive.

Science and words

In a session on “Science, Literature and Imagination,” writer C.R. Das told children: “The more you learn science, the more your imagination expands. Literature plays a crucial role in nurturing that imagination.” Echoing this, teacher and writer Sangeetha Chenampully said, “Rational thinking helps us evaluate the world around us, while imagination pushes us beyond it. Science must always be used for peace.”

A session, directed by Mr. Sreedharan and writer Priya A.S., featured engaging interactions with writers and artists such as Priyaraj Govindaraj, Sangeetha Chenampully, 2024 Sahitya Akademi Award winner for children’s literature E.N. Sheeja, Sijitha Anil, Anvar Ali, and Sridevi Prasad.

Speaking at the workshop, Ms. Priya underlined that adults, too, must learn from children. “Children are not to be silenced or defined by us; they have their own identity and voice. As poet Ashitha once wrote, children are not meant to sit quietly in a corner,” she said. She emphasised the relevance of hosting a festival exclusively for children at a time when their innate sense of wonder and imagination often faces erosion.