The joy of reading, writes Priyanka Chaturvedi

India witnesses its biggest literature festival every year in this month. Zee’s Jaipur Lit Fest, also called the Literature Mahakumbh, brings together authors from across the world, wrapped up last week. It is indeed heartening to note how people gather in large numbers to attend various panel discussions that form a part of it every year. It has also inspired many such lit fests to spring up across the country. Bring it on I say, the more the merrier!

During my awkward, introvert growing-up years, my best friend was the book. A book in my hand managed to help me avoid conversations with people, kept me from outdoors to make friends and also gave me a perfect alibi to avoid socialising with the world. Some of the books took me to a self-imagined world of my own where comedy, action, mystery, romance would merge into happy thoughts and memories. But soon, there was never enough time to read books as the real world awaited. However even till date, if given an option, I will leave all aside to immerse myself in reading a book.

One thing I learnt, is that the very same alibi of reading a book that I used to avoid people, soon turned into a conversation starter with people I met later on! Joining a library, accepting suggested reads also opened the mind to many other writers. Many a ‘lifetime friendship’ blossomed because of that and as luck would have it, the mister is also a voracious reader.

I probably am the only outdated person who hasn’t shifted to ebooks (despite two serious attempts and e-reader purchases) . Yes, I know the argument is heavily tilted in the favour of ebook of it being eco-friendly, light-weight, read-anywhere, anytime, multifunctional, but yet. I have tried to shift the habit but not been able to succeed, yes my loss. For me, strolling through a book store randomly picking up books that intrigue and interest me can never be replaced by the click of a button purchase on an e-reader. Of course, the smell of a new book... irreplaceable by technology. Most importantly, the author signed copy with a special note scribbled by the author is priceless.

There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world and making them love to read books is the most satisfying of them all. My son was quick to take to reading and loves his ebook reader as much as his ebooks! Kids and technology, I tell you! At eight, he had read the entire Harry Potter series! However, the same habit was difficult to inculcate in my daughter. But at eight years now, she has just about begun her journey into the world of reading.

Happiness is when one reads that bookstores are gaining popularity again in India, it used to be heartbreaking every time a sprawling book store in a mall would begin first by shrinking in size before shutting down altogether. Now some book store owners are starting small, targeting niche reader segment and bringing in innovative ideas to pull the crowd back in. Welcome indeed. Read away, believe me there is no better time than now!