New Delhi [India], June 19 (ANI): The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in New Delhi celebrated National Reading Day on Thursday with an innovative event that intertwined the worlds of literature and visual art. The celebration drew people from all walks of life to an open reading session that highlighted the cultural and artistic richness of Indian heritage.
Attendees immersed themselves in stories of the Ramayana, the history of terracotta art, and Le Corbusier’s designs for Chandigarh—all presented through a curated selection of books. The initiative aimed to foster a love for reading while connecting visitors with India’s diverse artistic and literary traditions.
“Books are beautiful!” exclaimed educator Suman Gupta, who was present at the event. Speaking to ANI, she emphasized the importance of such initiatives in developing children’s emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. “Events like these cultivate reading habits in children and allow them to travel the world through books. Artistic illustrations such as Ramlila in books blend and bring together art and literature,” she said. Gupta also urged the government to increase collaboration with schools to make such events more frequent.
Swati Tiwari, Assistant Curator at NGMA, highlighted the significance of June 19, celebrated annually as National Reading Day in honor of P. N. Panicker, the pioneer of Kerala’s Library Movement. “This day celebrates the value and delight of reading and reminds us that books are our teachers and lifelong friends,” she said. “P. N. Panicker’s vision made reading accessible to all. It’s a time to rediscover books and encourage others to read.”
Panicker, widely regarded as the father of the library and literacy movement in Kerala, was born in 1909 and passed away on June 19, 1995. His legacy is remembered through the motto “Vayichu Valaruka” (Read and Grow), a message that former President Ram Nath Kovind once praised for its transformative power.
This year’s celebration holds added significance as it marks the 115th birth anniversary of Panicker. “With the intent to raise awareness about reading, the NGMA is celebrating National Reading Day,” Tiwari added.
Visitors of all ages found inspiration in the event. Gagandeep, a working professional, remarked, “This is a really nice initiative as it allows the younger generation to bond and connect with books. The reading session at an art gallery takes us away from screens and lets us explore art.”
Yukta, a student, shared, “The reading session is a great way for us to pick up a new habit and bring the younger generation along too.”
Hritik Dev Gohil, another working professional, expressed his joy at the unique setting. “Art and literature freshen up the mind. They connect us to our childhood. Epics like Ramayana, which we see here in both paintings and books, create a great bridge.”
The NGMA’s celebration blended vivid art with engaging literature, leveraging a tech-savvy approach and a spirit of cultural preservation to inspire visitors of all ages. (ANI)
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