For Class VI student Anushka Boral, it was not an ordinary school day. Her mind was abuzz with creative ideas, and she was looking forward to spending a day with comics — this time learning how to create them.
With pencils sharpened and a sketchbook in place, Anushka and her classmates headed for a session, where author Harsho Mohan Chattoraj taught them how to create comic strips and a story around them. The event was held as part of a literature festival organised by Mahadevi Birla World Academy on November 15 and 16.
“I love comics, so I was overjoyed to find that author Harsho Mohan Chattoraj, the writer of Chakrapurer Chakkare, would teach us,” Anushka said.
Six authors took part in the fest meant for Classes I to VIII. There were books for all age groups. Author-academician Swati Kheria introduced her book ABC Safari with some fun actions, helping children of Classes I and II improve their understanding of basic English language and animal names.
Author-clinical psychologist Pragati Jalan Sureka’s Hope: Stories for a Strong Mind gave the Class III students an idea about their mental health needs. “When children have a problem, they should not ignore it,” said Jalan-Surekha.
“I learnt about the third sustainable development goal, good health, from the session on mental health. We were told how to stay fit by doing jumping jacks and drinking lots of water,” said Class III student Aaryav Kedia of Jalan-Surekha’s session.
Author Lesley D. Biswas spoke about life in pre-Independence India while introducing her book A conspiracy in Calcutta to Class VIII.
Author Madhurima Biswas spoke to Class IV pupils about balancing life as a doctor and author. The students shared titbits about the oldest members of their families as she read out excerpts from her book My Grandmoth-er’s Masterpiece.
While discussing her science fiction book, Myra and the Secret Library, author Nita Bajoria told aspiring authors of Class VII how to create, construct and edit a story.
The sessions inspired many aspiring writers to create stories of their own. “We felt this was the best time to get authors on board and help children get back to reading,” said vice-principal NupurGhosh.
“We are sure that many children will now be interested to start a creative journey of their own,” said principal Anjana Saha.