Enlightening India, one story at a time
116 years ago a visionary was born, the Father of Kerala’s Library Movement, who led Kerala’s literary revolution not with swords, but with books. Puthuvayil Narayana Panicker’s resolve transformed Kerala into the model of literacy and literary culture it is today. A teacher by profession, Panicker firmly believed reading empowers individuals, and by extension, the society. He established the Sanadana Dharma Library, modestly setting the tone for what would later become a statewide library movement.
By 1945, Panicker had gathered a circle of like-minded dreamers at the PK Memorial Library in Ambalapuzha to start the Travancore Granthasala Sangham, later known as the Kerala Granthasala Sangham (KGS), connecting 47 rural libraries under the guiding spirit of “Read and Grow”. Panicker travelled to every corner of Kerala, nurturing over 6,000 public libraries that brought learning to even the remotest villages.
Panicker’s impact reached global heights in 1975 when UNESCO presented KGS with the Krupskaya Award, recognising its role in promoting literacy. Even when KGS was taken over by the state government in 1977, Panicker went on to establish the Kerala Association for Non-formal Education and Development (KANFED), laying the foundation for the Kerala State Literacy Mission. This was the foundation for Kerala’s universal literacy status.
Panicker passed away 30 years ago on June 19, 1995, and since 1996, his death anniversary is observed as Reading Day or Vaayanadinam in Kerala. In 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared it National Reading Day. This week, from June 19-25, is known as Vayana Varam, and includes Vaayanasadhas or collective reading sessions observed all over India.
In marking National Reading Day, the most fitting tribute we can offer is to read — especially Indian authors. Following Panicker’s footsteps, we can revive our local libraries, recommit to the old-school pleasure of borrowing physical books, and bring literature to underprivileged communities through donation drives and mobile reading camps. Our mission must align with Panicker’s: inclusive access to reading for every citizen, regardless of background, as everyone deserves a chance to enlighten their mind with words.
In a country as vast and diverse as India, promoting reading is no small task, but therein lies our strength. Our linguistic diversity enriches us. When a Malayali flips through Punjabi poetry, or a Bengali explores Tamil folklore, cultures are bridged. Every page turns into a socio-cultural learning experience.
As we enter a new phase of anti-intellectualism on social media, we must remember that reading is not a mere pastime. It is the seedbed of understanding and unity. It bridges our many worlds, amplifies our united voices, and empowers all. This Reading Week, let strengthen the resolve of India, one story at a time.
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