Mahavachan Utsav 2024: Amitabh Bachchan and the Future of Reading Culture in Schools
Mumbai: In a move to inspire a new generation of readers, superstar Amitabh Bachchan has been appointed as the brand ambassador of the Mahavachan Utsav 2024 (Mega Reading Festival 2024). Set to run from July 22 to August 30, this festival aims to cultivate a rich reading culture among students in Maharashtra.
The festival, organized by the state school education department in collaboration with Read India Celebration, seeks to extend reading beyond the classroom. The initiative aims to enhance personality development, creativity, and linguistic skills by engaging students with Marathi language, literature, and culture.
Amitabh Bachchan expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Reading has always been a significant part of my life. It is an honor to support a festival that encourages young minds to explore the world of books and enrich their lives beyond textbooks.”
The Mahavachan Utsav 2024 is not just about reading; it’s about creating a lifelong habit. The festival will feature a dedicated web portal where students can access a diverse range of literary works, including stories, novels, autobiographies, and other writings by renowned Marathi authors. This platform will allow students to explore literature beyond their regular syllabus.
Participants in the festival are required to read selected literature and submit their reflections in a 150 to 200-word written format on the Mahavachan Utsav 2024 portal. Additionally, they must upload a one-minute video or audio clip summarizing the books they have read. These submissions are essential for participation in the festival.
The government resolution (GR) also mandates that schools organize book fairs covering various subjects. School authorities are encouraged to collaborate with private libraries for these exhibitions, which will provide students with broader literary exposure. Education officers at the taluka level will oversee these activities to ensure a wide reach and effective implementation.
A Festival for Personal Growth
The primary goals of the Mahavachan Utsav 2024 are to:
Inculcate a Reading Culture: Encourage students to develop a habit of reading that goes beyond their curriculum.
Cultivate a Taste for Literature: Connect students with Marathi language, literature, and culture.
Enhance Development: Improve personality development, creativity, and linguistic skills through reading.
Building a Community of Readers
The festival is designed to create a community of young readers who appreciate and enjoy literature. By involving students in activities that require them to reflect on and discuss their readings, the festival aims to develop critical thinking and communication skills.
Amitabh Bachchan’s involvement as the brand ambassador brings star power and credibility to the initiative, inspiring students and educators alike to embrace the transformative power of reading. As the festival kicks off, it promises to be a beacon of literary enthusiasm, fostering a generation that values knowledge, culture, and creativity.