Humour & horror, football & friendship, magic & masti and of course some impromptu grooving – all this and lots more made Vizag Junior Litfest (VJLF) a truly mind-blasting experience.
Held in the ‘City of Destiny’ on 23rd & 24th November the fest had some of the most popular names in the kidlit space unleashing their creativity.
I was requested to take a story telling session in Telugu (my first ever in the lyrical and lovely language which is my MIL tongue) for children with various disabilities. It turned out to be one of the most heartwarming and fulfilling events I have ever conducted. The connect with the truly special children was instant and seamless.
I am still basking in the glow of those endearing moments which have morphed into eternal memories.
I am sharing the feedback from Kavya and Priya who actually ‘manifested’ the event. Kavya, is visually impaired architect by profession’ and is doing awesome work in the field of disability while Priya is one of the key members of Team VJLF.
“It was such a pleasure meeting and interacting with you at the Vizag Lit Fest. When I initially pitched the idea to Priya and explored ways to conduct a Telugu session that would be inclusive of children with various disabilities and accessible to them at the same time, I was a bit sceptical about the outcome. But being present and witnessing the children reciprocate with you filled my heart and made it all so worthwhile.
I want to personally thank you for being so energetically accommodating throughout the session. Here’s to many more meaningful endeavors that touch even more hearts! ♥️” – Kavya
“You were amazing with the children! You have truly created such special memories for these special children!” – Priya
My session on my book Shriek and Other Spooky Tales was choc-a-bloc full and ended with the young Turks trying to spook me.
I spun yarns in a couple of other sessions for different age groups and the response was awesome. The ‘autobiography’ of my guppy (grown up puppy) Aryan (The Canine Chronicles) in particular enthralled the kids.
I also participated in a panel discussion for parents quoting liberally from my book Effective Parenting: A New Paradigm.
The curtains came down with my dil indulging in some unalloyed badtameezi on stage.
I received a rapturous response from the huge audience and fellow yarn spinners with a few of them joining me and setting the stage on fire.
Gratitude to Team VJLF for creating indelible moments that have morphed into endearing memories.
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