“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free” a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson gives us a reflection of the power of reading. Kerala is the most literate state in India with a literacy rate of 94.00 percent (male literacy: 96.11%; female literacy 92.07) per the latest population census. Well! It's a proud moment for us and Kerala wouldn’t be able to achieve this milestone without the contribution of the father of the library movement known as Puthuvayil Narayana Panicker.
On this National Reading Day (19 JUN 2023), let's gain some insight into reading and how it finds its place in the daily routine of Indians. Let's have a sneak peek at reading history.
History of National Reading Day
National Reading Day is celebrated in honor of P N Panicker on his death anniversary. He was considered the Father of Kerala's Library and Literacy Movement with the famous slogan “Read and Grow.”
He founded 47 local libraries under the Thiruvithaamkoor Granthasala Sangham earlier named as Travancore Library Association. He traveled to different underdeveloped villages of Kerala to promote the importance of reading and education. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Reading / Digital Reading Month in Kochi in 2017 to further propagate the message, “Read and Grow.”
How does reading help you?
Reading is a multifaceted activity that offers numerous benefits as mentioned below:
1) Expands Knowledge and Vocabulary
If you want to expand your horizons, reading is an excellent way to start. When you start reading many of your prejudices come to an end. You get to start viewing things from different perspectives that you never knew existed.
You get to know how small you are in this vast universe and start your journey toward empathy and compassion. Additionally, reading helps expand your vocabulary by exposing you to new words and phrases, enhancing your overall communication skills.
2) Enhances Cognitive Abilities
Your regular engagement with reading significantly improves cognitive abilities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Reading is a perfect mental exercise to help your brain actively process and comprehend information. In addition, it contributes to improved memory retention and concentration.
3) Reduces Stress and Enhances Relaxation
If you want to run from the chaos of your surrounding; reading is the perfect escape. Grab a book and get lost in the story that it has to offer. It provides a sense of relaxation and tranquility, allowing you to unwind and recharge.
4) Boosts Imagination and Creativity
From nurturing imagination to giving you a sneak peek at someone's life struggles and achievements reading has it all. Reading gives a boost to your creativity and it opens new doors for you to walk on the path of problem-solving, innovation, and artistic expression.
A book in your hand is the magic wand that you wished for in your childhood. By making reading a regular part of your life, you can gain the confidence and perspective you need to achieve goals in your life.
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