Kathakar International Storytellers' Festival

On 11th November 2016, 17 students of classes VI and VII attended the Kathakar International Storytellers Festival at the IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts) as a part of Ghummakad Narain: The Travelling Literature Festival. IGNCA has hosted this festival since 2013 and it is one of their most popular festivals.

The festival showcased story tellers from different parts of the world. Students from various schools were there to witness it. The first session began by paying tribute to Mr. Deen Dayal Upadhaya, eminent economist, social worker, historian, journalist and political scientist. Mr. Upadhaya died young but his contribution to the nation is commendable. This year, on his centenary, a special tribute was made by Ms. Shaguna Gehlote, including interesting details about his life and accomplishments during her talk on him.

Next was a story session using comic strips. This was presented by the Spice Arthur Kamishibai Group (Japan). The story they took up was of a young Samurai called Issun Samurai. Holding placards, the presenters narrated the story with captivating expressions and voices. Music in the background lent to the drama.

The third session included shadow puppetry from Kerala. This traditional form, also known as Thopavakoothu Sargam, originated in Indian temples and was spectacular. Thol means leather, Pava are puppets and Koothu is play. The puppeteers deftly handled the puppets as they unrolled the timeless Ramayana.

The last session was with Ms. Sarah Rundle, storyteller and actor based in London. She narrated a story from the times of the Silk Route. It told the story of why the Chinese have short names and was hilarious.

The children keenly enjoyed the story-telling sessions. The morning at the IGNCA was definitely well spent.

Ms. Tarunnum Athar.