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 fiction, romance, drama, and Sufi literature, the festival is a treasure trove of literary delights waiting to be explored. Visitors of all ages can find something to captivate their interest, whether it be young children immersing themselves in picture books, school students delving into fiction, or the youth exploring renowned international and local authors such as Kahlil Gibran and Khaled Hosseini.
One of the highlights of the festival is the opportunity it provides for readers to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir through a diverse collection of literary works. From poetry and dictionaries to Sufi poems by eminent Kashmiri writers, the festival showcases the depth and diversity of Kashmiri literature. Additionally, the event has seen a surge in interest from students seeking academic resources for various competitive examinations, with a particular emphasis on career-oriented and academic materials.
At the festival, many visitors are seen lining up to purchase books to prepare for career-oriented exams such as GATE, NEET, JEE, NDA, CUET, Banking, and UPSC. Dr. Yogesh Chandana, a Vedic mathematics expert from Haryana, mentioned the positive response they have received from students interested in learning Vedic mathematics. There is also a stand selling washable and reusable books in English, Urdu, Maths, and other subjects, catering to the needs of students and book lovers alike.
The Literary Stage at the festival hosts a series of engaging talks and 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 interactive workshops and activities for young visitors. The workshop on Emotional Intelligence and the Art of Conversation was a hit among children, who actively participated in the session. Storytelling sessions, workshops, and musical performances create an enchanting environment for the exchange of ideas and creativity, making the festival a truly immersive experience for all attendees.
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.