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Toddlers - the new attendees of Jaipur fest
The usual literary suspects of the literary festival - the students, intellectuals, wannabe writers and bookworms are now jostling for space with new-born audience - toddlers who are soaking in the sun and the literature, comfortably perched on their parents shoulders.
The usual literary suspects of the literary festival - the students, intellectuals, wannabe writers and bookworms are now jostling for space with new-born audience - toddlers who are soaking in the sun and the literature, comfortably perched on their parents shoulders.
A family of four is spotted lounging in the reading room. While the mother poured over poetry books, father and son sat on the couch lazily flipping through picture books and giggling together. On being asked about what he is reading the shy looking kid surprises with his knowledge of Roald Dhal and JK Rowling. His father explains, "We're liberal minded parents, I think it's cool to show our kids the world of books in a fun and non-serious way, and what could be better than enjoying a festival of books."
Some distance away, two over-awed kids are seen pestering Orhan Pamuk and Kiran Desai as they try to steal a quite moment together behind the colorful draperies. The innocent children are least bothered by Kiran Desai's bemused expression as they express their love for Mr. Pamuk's 'funny books' with titles like 'My Name Is Red'.
Armed with autographed diaries decorated with cartoons, the toddlers are enjoying every moment of the festival. With parents busy attending sessions, kids are happily sauntering along, chattering, eating, squealing with delight at spotting the brightly dressed folk musicians.
