Kathakaar International Storytelling Festival 2023

The 16th edition of the Kathakaar International Storytelling Festival unfolded its magic on 2 December 2023, at the enchanting Sunder Nursery in Nizamuddin. Students from classes 4 and 7 attended this annual extravaganza captivating narratives presented by unique storytellers from around the globe.

The festival showcased a kaleidoscope of cultural voices, featuring storytellers from Poland, Turkey, Australia, Japan, and Mongolia. Each storyteller brought a distinct flavour, offering a rich tapestry of global storytelling traditions that resonated with the audience.

The event transcended traditional storytelling, presenting a delightful array of art forms. From the rhythmic and engaging Meddah to the enchanting shadow puppetry, the traditional Japanese Kamishibai, and the timeless Vikram-Betal tales, the festival celebrated storytelling in its many forms. This diverse range of expressions added depth and vibrancy to the storytelling experience.

Renowned personalities such as Jody Edwards and Katy Cawkwell graced the festival, sharing profound insights into the power of storytelling as an art form. Katy Cawkwell’s performance of ‘The Woman Made of Flowers,’ a Welsh legend, transported the audience to a world of vivid images and magic, showcasing the deep connection between the storyteller and the oral tradition.

The festival highlighted the global nature of storytelling, with performances like ‘Whale Story’ by Jodi Edwards from Australia, which illuminated the Aborigine tradition of storytelling. Duncan ‘TUUP’ of England, rooted in Guyana, brought African stories to life using the West African trickster character, Anansi, providing a unique perspective on the spirit of storytelling beyond words.

The festival took a creative turn with Spice Arthur’s Japanese Shadow Show performance, incorporating flying pictures, realistic sounds, music, and singing. Spice Arthur shared insights into the meticulous process of creating images for the story, using a combination of Manga and pastel crayons, providing a visual feast to the audience.

The festival was not only a feast for the senses but also an educational experience for the children. Immersed in the world of storytelling, children learned valuable lessons from diverse cultures and traditions. The lush greenery and Mughal monuments at Sunder Nursery provided a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall ambience of the festival.

In conclusion, the Kathakaar International Storytelling Festival 2023 succeeded in its mission of reviving the dying art form of oral storytelling. Through a captivating blend of diverse narratives, cultural expressions, and innovative storytelling forms, the festival left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of both young and old, fostering a deep appreciation for the power and beauty of storytelling.