Lucknow: A joyful and engaging storytelling session titled “Little Readers–Cuddly Stories” was held on Saturday morning at the Auditorium as part of the Metaphor Lucknow Literature Festival. The interactive session was led by renowned author and educator Dr. Anita Bhatnagar Jain, who captivated a hall full of young listeners.
Children, who had especially arrived from K.D. Singh Babu Stadium to attend the festival, were warmly welcomed into a world of stories and imagination. Dr. Anita began the session by sensitising the children to the importance of loving, protecting and caring for all living beings around them, setting the tone for an afternoon of meaningful learning.
She introduced her popular children’s books Kabbu Ki Udaan, Kukrukku, and Prithvi Hamari Bhi Hai, all authored by her, and shared excerpts from Kabbu Ki Udaan—a touching story about a pigeon navigating life in the city. Through Kabbu’s journey, she highlighted the significance of animal welfare and reminded the audience of humanity’s responsibility towards animals and birds. “Manushya ki tarah pashu-pakshiyon ke bhi parivaar hote hain,” she said, as the children listened with rapt attention.
The auditorium echoed with laughter and excitement as the session turned interactive, with children eagerly exchanging thoughts and stories with the author. Towards the end, Dr. Anita quizzed the young readers about Kabbu’s life, prompting enthusiastic hand-raising as several children were invited on stage to answer her questions.
The session concluded on a cheerful note with Dr. Anita signing and distributing copies of her books to the children. The morning turned into an unforgettable celebration of stories, smiles and laughter, leaving young readers inspired and delighted.
