From the previous edition of Madurai Children’s Literature Festival. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Young and aspiring readers of Madurai prepare to celebrate books, stories and art through the annual literary event, Oru Orala – Madurai Children’s Literary Festival (MCLF). In 2019, MCLF started as an initial step to develop the habit of reading among children, parents and literature enthusiasts alike.

“What started as a humble initiative with a budget of ₹10,000 has grown into one of the most eagerly awaited literary festivals of the city,” says Surya Preeti, head of MCLF and owner of book store, Turning Point. “The tremendous support we have received from parents, especially mothers, has been encouraging. Staying true to our core values ​​and encouraged by the positive response, we are committed to improving the Madurai Children’s Literature Festival every year. We have unique sessions, discussions and lectures that engage both adults and children alike.

Every year, children are given a reading challenge, where they are given a reading task to complete before the festival, and accomplished readers are given certificates by famous authors during the festival. This year children have been encouraged to read Ashwin Prabhu’s book cut stoneSavvy Cornell’s titular deity or Vibha Batra’s happy childEntrants with an excellent review of one book will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the author.

The two-day literary festival, running from 9 am to 5 pm, will feature over 40 exciting sessions including author readings, storytelling, workshops and discussions with children’s authors, illustrators and teachers. Additionally, the festival will host competitions for children, book signings and hands-on activities like making toys from waste, pottery, origami and tea coaster painting.

Perumal Murugan | Photo Courtesy: Shiva Saravanan S

The line-up of over 20 speakers includes renowned authors such as Perumal Murugan, Udaya Shankar, Savi Carnell, Aditi Rao and Muthukrishnan; Renowned storytellers like Deepa Kiran, Parvati Easwaran and Vanitamani; painter Satwik Gade; Teachers Md Pandiarajan and Ashwin Prabhu.

Surya says, “The habit of reading is continuously increasing among children and parents, but my mission for this year’s event is to highlight Indian literature for children.” “Nowadays, children are getting attracted towards Western books, and that is wonderful, but in the process, they often miss the essence of their culture and heritage. By reading the works of our Indian authors, children can taste and celebrate the richness of our traditions and culture. I remember losing myself in RK Narayan’s vibrant storytelling Malgudi DaysAnd those memories still resonate with me,” she adds. Taking the journey forward, Surya wants to foster the love for books and storytelling among the young generation through Oru Orla. “We invite book experts from Madurai to join us as we celebrate the magic of storytelling, reading and the power of imagination,” she says.

On 23rd and 24th November at Om Sadhna Central School, Virathipattu. Today there is a free bus service to the venue from Milnam Mall KK Nagar at 9 am and from Madura College entrance at 10 am. Vallabh School has arranged for two buses on both days. Call 9789835736.