The Dhauladhar Kahani Mela, a vibrant storytelling festival held in the scenic hills of Himachal Pradesh, is making waves by promoting reading habits among attendees. This unique event actively encourages people to pick up books and immerse themselves in stories, offering a refreshing break from digital screens.
Creating a Reading Culture in the Mountains
Organizers of the mela have designed it to be an interactive and engaging experience. They set up various stalls filled with books from different genres, catering to all age groups. Visitors can browse through collections, participate in live storytelling sessions, and even join workshops that teach creative writing techniques.
Many participants report feeling inspired to read more regularly after attending the festival. The mela's atmosphere, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Dhauladhar range, adds to the charm and makes reading a delightful activity.
Helping to Reduce Screen Dependency
A key goal of the Dhauladhar Kahani Mela is to help people, especially children and youth, stay away from screens. In today's digital age, excessive screen time has become a common concern, affecting health and social interactions.
By providing an alternative form of entertainment through books and storytelling, the mela offers a healthy escape. Parents and educators praise the event for its role in fostering offline hobbies and improving concentration skills among young readers.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The festival has seen growing attendance each year, with locals and tourists alike joining in the celebrations. Organizers plan to expand the mela to include more activities, such as author meet-and-greets and reading challenges, to sustain interest in reading.
They emphasize that the mela is not just a one-time event but part of a broader movement to cultivate a lifelong love for literature. With continued support, the Dhauladhar Kahani Mela aims to become a model for similar initiatives in other regions.
