Hyderabad's libraries must evolve beyond their traditional role as silent repositories of books and transform into vibrant centers for thinking, discussion, and the exchange of ideas, according to Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma. Speaking at the inauguration of the Hyderabad Literary Festival (HLF) on Saturday, the governor underscored the urgent need for more spaces dedicated to literary conversations and meaningful dialogue within the city.
Redefining Libraries for the Modern Era
Governor Varma articulated that the conventional concept of a library is gradually fading into obsolescence. He emphasized that contemporary libraries must be alive, relevant, and engaging environments where young people can gather, reflect, and create. "The old concept of a library is fading. Libraries today have to be alive and relevant, places where youngsters gather, reflect and create," he stated, highlighting the necessity for these institutions to adapt to modern societal needs.
Inspiring Examples from Across India
Drawing parallels with the increasing popularity of literary festivals nationwide, Varma pointed to events like the Jaipur Literature Festival as setting a global benchmark. These platforms have inspired similar initiatives even in smaller states, demonstrating a growing appetite for literary engagement. "Today, literature festivals in places like Meghalaya and Tripura are gaining recognition. People want to read, discuss and talk. A book is no longer something you merely display on a shelf; it is something you engage with, debate, and feel," he remarked, expressing satisfaction at the strong youth participation observed at HLF.
Government Plans for Library Revitalization
Echoing the governor's vision, Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary for Tourism, affirmed that events like HLF are crucial for strengthening Hyderabad's literary ecosystem. He announced ambitious plans to revamp the city's outdated libraries, transforming them into inclusive community spaces. "We are looking at revamping a large number of libraries, from hyperlocal ones to bigger institutions, including the central library. The idea is to convert them into centres of intellectual discussion where schoolchildren can do their homework, communities can hold meet-ups, and ideas can freely circulate," Ranjan explained, outlining a comprehensive approach to library modernization.
Nobel Laureate's Message of Compassion and Solutions
The event also featured Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, who released his book Karuna during the festival. Reflecting on his Nobel Prize recognition, Satyarthi shared an insightful anecdote: "When I received the Nobel Prize, a foreign journalist asked me how such recognition was possible in a country with so many problems. I smiled and said, India may be a land of many problems, but it is also a land of over one billion solutions." He elaborated that the core message of his book is to shift from merely analyzing problems to actively becoming problem-solvers. "Compassion is not passive kindness. It is dynamic, disruptive and transformative. We are all born with an ocean of compassion; we just need to awaken it," Satyarthi emphasized, inspiring attendees with his call to action.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Dialogue
The collective insights from Governor Varma, Special Chief Secretary Ranjan, and Nobel laureate Satyarthi converge on a central theme: the imperative to cultivate environments that nurture innovation, critical thinking, and compassionate action. By revitalizing libraries and supporting literary festivals, Hyderabad aims to create more opportunities for intellectual engagement, particularly among the youth, thereby fostering a more dynamic and thoughtful community.
