Bratati Baral
In recent years, technology has brought profound changes in our lives. Mobile phones have become indispensable to people of all ages and backgrounds, reshaping how we communicate and interact with the world. However, this ubiquitous connectivity to the virtual realm, particularly through social media apps, has contributed to a noticeable decline in the practice of reading books.
Yet, the value of reading cannot be overstated. It is through books that individuals can enrich themselves culturally, broaden their perspectives, and explore worlds beyond their own. Those who neglect the habit of regular reading may find themselves missing out on the myriad joys and insights that literature offers.
Prameya English recently spoke to several women in the city who remain steadfast in their love for books, choosing to spend their time collecting and reading them rather than succumbing to the allure of endless scrolling on their mobile phones.
Bhubaneswar based Gitanjali Mohanty is a passionate reader with a multitude of talents, including poetry. Though Gitanjali is well known as a professional dress designer, her heart lies in the pages of books.
“I avidly collect new reads and cherish them at my reading corner at home. Despite my busy schedule, I make it a point to attend book fairs in Bhubaneswar and collect some new books”, she says.
Her enthusiasm for reading extends to her family as well; her husband and two sons share her passion. While her elder son gravitates towards mythological stories, her younger one prefers novels. For Gitanjali, getting lost in a book is akin to losing track of time. Not only does reading enrich her general knowledge, but it also provides a refreshing escape for her mind.
Gitanjali Behera, a housewife from Puri’s Nimapada says, "Technology isn't solely to blame for the decline in book reading. If you're determined, you can find ways to read despite the distractions. For instance, I use my Android phone to access various book reading apps whenever I have some free time. Reading books isn't just enjoyable; it's also beneficial for memory and imagination.
“When you read, you start visualizing the scenes and characters, which exercises your brain and enhances your memory. Fictional stories take you on journeys to different worlds, sparking your creativity in the process”, she adds.
Urmila Parida, a teacher from Pipili of Puri district still loves reading books. “The habit of reading often takes root in childhood. Back in our day, telephones weren't as ubiquitous, leaving fewer distractions and more time for pursuits like reading. I owe my introduction to books to my elder sister, who was an avid reader herself. Witnessing her passion for literature inspired me to delve into the world of books.
“ Personally, I find solace in a diverse array of literary forms, from short stories to novels, spanning both Odia and English languages. For me, books serve as the ultimate remedy for insomnia. It's a good idea to explore books on different topics. There's a lot happening all around the world and reading books, magazines, and newspapers helps us stay informed about what's going on.” she says.
