Kahani Karnival 2015 at Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum saw children immersed in the world of stories amidst spaces of lesser-known history
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Byculla (E), recently played host to a number of children and parents, who attended Kahani Karnival 2015 that took place on January 16 and 17. Well into its second successful year, Kahani Karnival aims to bring young children closer to the world of stories through interactive and multi-disciplinary activities including dance, music, theatre and art through the medium of workshops, talks and performances.
Launched by the Kahani Karnival Trust, a group of five mothers led by former journalist Shinibali Mitra Saigal, the event used the museum space creatively in the form of venues for as many as 30 activities. Pots were modelled in the East Lawn after a session on the museum's pottery collection, while the museum's education centre (renamed 'The Secret Manor') saw kids recycle trash into useful objects in the activity 'Bash with Trash'.
"It's been a great opportunity for the kids to learn small things like appreciating nature, waiting for their turn instead of rushing and listening patiently," shares Kiran Arun, a Bhandup resident whose five-year-old son Aditya participated in the activity.
Sisters Zaahra and Zainab Barot from Agripada were at the venue since 11 a.m. on Saturday, busying themselves in numerous fun activities. "This is a great way for kids to interact with the museum in a way that they generally don't," says Dr. Insiya Barot, mother of Zaahra and Zainab.
Visitors browsed through the Kahani Tree books pavilion selecting from a plethora of Indian and foreign authors that included everything from origami and crafts to non-fiction, mythology and poetry. Also in attendance were authors of children's books who signed copies for eager visitors and fans. One such author was 24-year-old Pariniti Shetty, who at a young age has dedicated herself to writing Indian books for children and has two published books under her name. "Indian books for children are limited and not many people know about the hidden gems that these can turn out to be," she opines, "It's difficult to write such books but I love how kids get excited about books and stories, and this along with other events enables me to do so."
In case you missed out on the fun, do not worry. "The museum has tied up with the Kahani Karnival Trust to conduct satellite festivals called 'Choti Kahanis' throughout the year," reveals Saigal, "These events will focus more on individual disciplines like theatre in April; art, film and literature in August; and dance and music in December." So there's much to look forward to this year.
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