Exclusive: Thiruvananthapuram Storytellers Share Their Journey

A New Era of Storytelling in Thiruvananthapuram

On March 20, 2026, as the world celebrates World Storytelling Day, a group of passionate storytellers in Thiruvananthapuram reflect on their transformative journeys. These individuals have not only preserved the art of storytelling but have also adapted to the digital age, igniting the imaginations of children in innovative ways. They emphasize the importance of storytelling in an era increasingly dominated by screens and technology.

Among these storytellers is Anjali Rajan Dileep, founder of the Apple Story Club, who has creatively reimagined classic tales for modern audiences. Anjali’s unique perspective on the age-old fable of The Hare and The Tortoise poses a thought-provoking question: what if the hare had been distracted by mobile games instead of napping? This modern twist is just one example of how she engages children through her storytelling podcast, which has gained tremendous popularity.

Adapting to Change: The Digital Shift

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many storytellers to pivot from in-person sessions to online platforms. Anjali recalls, "The pandemic prompted us to transition to digital storytelling. We launched a 20-day reading program that included stories in English, Malayalam, and Hindi. The response was overwhelming, with 26 batches comprising children from all over India and even abroad."

Her podcast, featuring stories recorded on her phone, reached the Top 100 charts on Spotify for over six months, showcasing the growing appetite for engaging children's content.

Archana Gopinath, who leads The Reading Room, has also witnessed the evolution of storytelling. Starting a decade ago in a small space at Jawahar Nagar, Archana’s initiative has blossomed into a robust community hub for book lovers. Inspired by her son’s love for stories, she has created a safe space where children can explore the world of literature and storytelling.

The Power of Storytelling in Professional Settings

For Janaki Hari, storytelling transcends mere entertainment; it is a vital component of her work as a speech and language therapist. Janaki began to incorporate storytelling into her professional practice three years ago. "I wanted my daughter, who is home-schooled, to interact with peers. This led me to organize storytelling events, eventually leading to my certification as a storyteller," she explains.

Her sessions, held at her center on Golf Links Road, cater to children with special needs, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of storytelling in communication development.

Building a Community Around Stories

Seema Richard, who established the Schoolkutti.com Children’s Library in Vellayambalam back in 2013, shares a similar sentiment. Although her professional commitments at Technopark have limited her involvement, storytelling sessions are now managed by her daughter, Nandini, and her friend, Priya. Nandini, who has been with Schoolkutti since she was five, has developed an exceptional affinity for books, having read virtually all the titles in the library.

The storytellers unanimously agree that many parents view these sessions as vital opportunities for their children to disconnect from screens. Archana notes, "Parents have expressed relief knowing their children can engage in storytelling instead of being glued to devices for hours. It’s rewarding to see children eagerly participate in these sessions."

The Challenges of Keeping Kids Engaged

Despite the initial enthusiasm, the number of participants in storytelling events has fluctuated over the years. Seema reveals, "Attendance at our sessions has declined, and parents often ask how we can encourage their children to read more. Engaging kids in storytelling takes patience and creativity; it’s about more than just reading a story aloud."

Archana emphasizes the educational potential of storytelling, stating, "I use stories as tools to enhance language skills, creativity, and critical thinking. By asking children for their opinions and encouraging them to create their own dialogues, I foster an interactive and engaging learning environment."

Why Storytelling Matters in Today's World

The art of storytelling is essential in nurturing communication skills and creativity among children. In a world where digital distractions are ubiquitous, these storytellers serve as guardians of imagination, helping to cultivate a love for literature. The personal touch and real engagement they offer are crucial in developing young minds.

As we look ahead, the evolution of storytelling will likely continue to merge traditional methods with modern technologies. The upcoming World Storytelling Day will serve as a reminder of the vital role these storytellers play in their communities.

What Lies Ahead for Storytelling in Thiruvananthapuram

As storytellers like Anjali, Archana, Janaki, and Seema continue their mission, the future looks promising. With increasing digital platforms and interactive storytelling formats, they are poised to reach even wider audiences.

The storytelling landscape will likely evolve further, blending live sessions with virtual experiences to captivate the next generation. The storytellers of Thiruvananthapuram are not just preserving the past but are actively shaping a vibrant, imaginative future for young readers and listeners alike.

As they share their tales, they remind us of the power of stories to connect, inspire, and educate, ensuring that the art of storytelling remains alive and well in an ever-changing world.