On December 1, 2023, the students of classes 4, 5 and 7 embarked on a magical journey to the Kathakar International Festival at Sunder Nursery, a lush park surrounded by diverse trees and historical monuments. The festival is organised by NGOs Nivesh and HHACH every year bringing diverse storytelling traditions to India since 2010. The event not only offered a feast for the imagination but also allowed students to connect with nature and witness the rich tapestry of global cultures through storytelling.
Sunder Nursery, formerly known as Azim Bagh in Mughal times, welcomed the students with its breathtaking greenery. The park, established in the 20th century to propagate plants for New Delhi, served as the perfect setting for the day's events. The students engaged in a nature walk, exploring the diverse flora and historic monuments within the premises. This experience not only connected them with nature but also provided a serene backdrop for the storytelling sessions that awaited them.
The highlight of the day was the storytelling sessions held in the open amphitheatre of Sunder Nursery. Renowned storytellers like Mongolian throat singer and storyteller, D Atarbayan, and Katy Cawkwell from the UK, Colombian story writer and narrator Ramses Hamir Moctezuma Soler, and Kamishibai storytellers from Japan, Spice Arthur 702, graced the stage, weaving tales that transcended borders and cultures. The stories presented were a captivating blend of emotions, ideas, and life lessons, capturing the hearts and minds of the young audience.
The students actively participated in the storytelling sessions, contributing to the narrative through interactive songs and expressions. This not only enhanced their engagement with the stories but also facilitated a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures represented. The storytellers' ability to involve the audience in their tales created an immersive experience, leaving a lasting impression on the students.
One of the significant outcomes of the festival was the exposure it provided to the students. By interacting with storytellers from different corners of the world, they gained insights into various cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This cross-cultural exchange broadened their horizons and fostered a sense of global awareness, instilling in them a curiosity about the rich tapestry of human experiences.
The Kathakar International Festival at Sunder Nursery was not merely an event. It was a transformative experience for the students. The combination of nature, history, and storytelling created a unique atmosphere that inspired creativity, empathy, and a sense of interconnectedness.
As the students returned from this enchanting journey, they carried with them not only the magic of stories but also a broader perspective on the world and its diverse narratives. The festival indeed proved J.K. Rowling's words right – There is always room for a story that can transport people to another place.
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