The Chinar Book Festival is a literary extravaganza that offers a diverse range of genres to cater to every book lover’s taste. From graphic novels to romance, drama, and Sufi literature, the festival has something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of renowned international and local authors such as Kahlil Gibran and Khaled Hosseini, as well as explore the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir through a collection of poetry, dictionaries, and Sufi poems by eminent Kashmiri writers.
One of the highlights of the festival is the surge in interest from students seeking academic resources for competitive examinations. With a particular emphasis on career-oriented and academic materials, many students are seen lining up to buy books to prepare for exams such as GATE, NEET, JEE, NDA, CUET, Banking, and UPSC. Dr. Yogesh Chandana, a Vedic mathematics expert, mentioned the positive response from students interested in learning Vedic mathematics. Additionally, there is a stand selling washable and reusable books in various subjects like English, Urdu, and Maths.
The Literary Stage at the festival hosts engaging discussions on various topics related to Kashmiri culture and arts. Renowned artist Veer Munshi emphasized the importance of preserving traditional art and architecture while adapting to modernity. In another session, Prof. Arifa Bushra, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Kashmir, discussed the role of books in the mental development of children and the need for support groups within families.
The Children’s Corner at the festival offers a range of activities aimed at young visitors. Workshops on Emotional Intelligence and the Art of Conversation have been a hit among children, who actively participate in the sessions. Storytelling sessions, workshops, and musical performances create an enchanting environment for the exchange of ideas and creativity.
Looking ahead, the festival promises an exciting lineup of events, including workshops on puppetry and letter writing for children, as well as insightful discussions on the great poets and writers of Kashmir. Tomorrow’s Chinar Talks will feature a spotlight on filmy stalwarts Aswath Bhatt, Mir Sarwar, Hussein Khan, and Mushtaq Ali in a session moderated by RJ Vijdan on „Lights, Camera, Kashmir: Exploring Theatre and Acting as Career Paths.“ Additionally, Shadaj Band will be performing live at the cultural stage, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
In conclusion, the Chinar Book Festival is a treasure trove of literary delights that offers something for everyone, from avid readers to aspiring students and young children. With its diverse range of genres, engaging activities, and insightful discussions, the festival provides a platform for the exchange of ideas and creativity, making it a must-visit event for all literary enthusiasts.