Katha begins second chapter of writing competition

To encourage the ability to think, ask questions and discuss among children at an early age, publishing firm Katha has started the second chapter of their creative writing competition "I Love Reading", the organisers said Monday.

The non-profit organisation had tied-up with Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to promote the project in its affiliated schools. For this, they had conducted poetry, writing and translation competitions in these schools.

The second chapter of this process will have more interesting sessions, the organisers said.

"We believe in the power of story to get children excited about learning," Geeta Dharmarajan, founder and executive director, Katha, said in a statement.

"Curiosity, creativity and critical thinking are embedded in stories and poems. And the ability to think, ask, discuss and act can come early to children who participate in listening and telling stories," she added.

Dharmarajan feels "our future professionals need to start early as listeners and storytellers", and this is what the association aims to do.

The participatory schools first need to start a "Katha club" in their schools, then there will be various workshops and competitions. The finalists will then attend the annual festival - Katha Utsav - in the national capital, where they will meet publishers and literary agents.

The best story and best translation will be published by Katha.