Srinagar, Aug 7: SKICC leapt into motion with the sounds of clapping children, dancing feet, rustling pages, and stories carried through air, rhythm, and silence. In some corners, folk tunes announced a rejoicing sound of celebration, while in others, children sat with wide eyes full of wonder, imagination and inspiration.
In the morning, puppets spoke louder than words. At the Children's Corner, storytelling unfolded not just through spoken tales, but through moving fabric, shadow, and surprise. Giggles, gasps, and glitter painted the space with joy, as young audiences discovered what it means to listen with both heart and eyes.
Seema Wahi began the day with the tale of a dragon who could not fly, a puppet story that gently taught resilience and hope. In her session "Breathe and Bloom," she guided children through calming breathing techniques using simple props, helping them find moments of peace amidst all the excitement.
In a powerful conversation that captured the heart of the festival's vision, Mr. Rayees Mohiuddin, Mr. Muneer Speaks, and Mr. Manoj Sheeri, in dialogue with RJ Mursal, reflected on how stories evolve across forms, from books to stage, from performance to mass media. Their discussion highlighted the true purpose of the Chinar Book Festival: to nurture literature in every medium and bring it closer to every heart. They engaged the audience through verses from Kashmiri literature, and encouraged the audience to read and learn their mother tongue.
Outside, the rhythm of the land took over. Folk dancers spun across the stage, with their feet beating stories into the earth, as the crowd joined in with claps, cheers, and admiration. Schoolchildren, professionals, and visitors moved between sessions, each finding their own moment of connection; some deep in conversation, others swept up by music.
As dusk descended, Dhananjay Kaul cast a classical spell with his rich and evocative voice. In yet another cultural event, Krisha Bhat's voiced reverberated around the whole venue, while audience favourite Shazia Bashir captivated hearts with her mesmerising performance, blending melody and emotion in a way that left the crowd spellbound. The night reached its crescendo with a performance by Rashid Hafiz, whose devotional music stirred something deeper, closing Day 6 with reverence and warmth.
The festival also welcomed prominent delegates, further affirming its growing significance in the cultural calendar of Jammu & Kashmir. The festival was graced by Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board; VC Kashmir University, Prof. Nilofer Khan, among many esteemed dignitaries.
As the stories continue to unfold, each day at Chinar Book Festival brings a new reason to return, and a new moment to remember. The festival continues to bring together academics, artists, and performers till 10th August, 2025. We welcome the people of Jammu and Kashmir to enjoy this carnival of books and culture.