Books are beautiful!: National Gallery of Modern Art celebrates National Reading Day

In an open reading session, people poured in from all walks of life and slipped away into the wondrous world of literature, but with a twist. The tales of Ramayana, the history of terracotta art and Le Corbusier's designs of Chandigarh found a way to people's hearts through a fascinating collection of books as the medium.

Present at the event Suman Gupta, an educator, smiled, "Books are beautiful!"

Speaking to ANI, she said such events enhance the "emotional and intelligence quotient" of children.

"Books are beautiful, they are illustrative. Events like these cultivate reading habit in children and allow them to travel the world through books. Artistic illustrations such as Ramlila in books blends and brings together art and literature."

While lauding the noble initiative, she suggested that the government should have collaborations with schools and increase the frequency of such events so that we create a future where children are emotionally aware, are familiar with cultural diversity and know their heritage.

Swati Tiwari, Assistant Curator at NGMA, told ANI, "Every year on June 19, India celebrates National Reading Day, a day to celebrate the value and delight of reading and to remind us that books are our teachers and lifelong friends."

Noting that the day marks the contributions of readers and encourages individuals of all ages to develop the habit of reading, she told ANI, "This day honours PN Panicker, the founder of Kerala's Library Movement, whose idea made reading available to everyone. It's a great time to read again, discover new books, and inspire others to discover the joys of reading".

PN Panicker is known as the father of library and literacy movement in Kerala, which eventually spread across India. Born in 1909, he passed away on June 19, 1995. The National Reading Day marks his contribution to the Indian society. Praising his contributions, former President Ramnath Kovind had said that Panicker wanted to remove the evil of illiteracy with a potent message - "Vayichu Valaruka" which means "Read and Grow".

The celebration of National Reading Day becomes significant as 2025 marks the 115th birth anniversary of India's most beloved librarian- PN Panicker.

Assistant Curator Tiwari in her concluding remarks said, "With the intent to raise the awareness about reading, the NGMA is celebrating National Reading Day".

Gagandeep, a working professional, said, "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 we are able to explore art!"

Yukta, a student, said, "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, a working professional, expressed joy on attending the event. "Art and literature freshen up the minds. They connect us to our childhood. Epics like Ramayana which we see here paintings and in books is a great bridge".

The National Gallery of Modern Art brought literature to the younger generation through vivid arts, a tech savvy gallery and plethora of inspiration, leaving visitors awe-inspired.