By Uma Sharma
Until a decade ago, Indian children literature was synonymous to fairly tales with hapless girls abutted on fairy godmothers or boy protagonists with an alter ego of a superman. The last decade has witnessed an evolution in this genre of literature – from dependant on fate to catalyst of change. From inclusiveness to gender equality, Indian children’s literature is purposeful and ushering new examples for its readers.
Seema Karanth, a Bengaluru-based professionally-trained storyteller who performs at libraries, schools, colleges and activity centres, describes this trend thus: “Children’s literature now has much more variety with a lot more picture books that focus on day-to-day events that children can easily relate to. The books, while trying to be entertaining and informative, are mostly non-preachy where ethical values are implied rather than forced.”
Also, she notes, the importance given to illustrations has risen drastically. “The blending of pictures and words is so artistic and beautiful and many a time so thought-provoking that these books can be enjoyed not just by children but by readers of any age group, as they lend themselves to a gamut of interpretations. Also, the books taking up contemporary themes are more multicultural and diverse.”
The advent of more diversified characterisation of the protagonists has become clearly visible in books. The clearly-etched binary caricatures have been given a neutral identity. Seema explains this diversity in roles: “Publishers and authors are now more aware of the stereotypes that can influence the young reader and consciously feature stories of strong-willed protagonists making their own choices, etc. And this is not just with respect to the girl child/women, but any kind of gender stereotyping. So, you have stories of boys wanting to stitch and girls dreaming of becoming wrestlers, grandmothers who are cool, men who are nurturers, etc.”
The evolution of children’s book is manifold. The deification of Indian children’s book is visible in its layout, illustrations, lingo and approach. A wider reading range for all reading levels has further helped in fashioning a bond between books and readers. Seema explains: “The fact that a lot more stories are now told from the child’s point of view ensures the connection is more, especially with books in the tween and teenage groups that are not just in the fantasy and adventure genre but address issues relevant to their age. Reading has therefore become more fun and entertaining while also being subtly educative and informative. Naturally, this has led to a more aware child.”
Indian children’s literature market is witnessing a boom wherein new and established publishers are catering to child readers. Seema adds: “Indian authors are now coming up with an unimaginable variety of contemporary themes that are not just matched but sometimes excelled by the respective illustrators; Indian children’s fiction is definitely more attractive to the child as a reader.”
The evolution in Indian children’s literature is not only adding new readers in its kitty, it is appealing to both children and adults alike. Parents are happier as their children are using their time constructively in reading instead of logged on to mobile and television.
[The main/featured picture from Pixabay has been used for illustrative purposes only]
Uma Sharma is a journalist, writer and poet based in Delhi
