The session Children, Literature, Fun brought the warm storytelling world of Sudha Murthy to the festival stage. Meera Venkatesan opened with the familiar invitation that many children love: “I will tell you a story narrated by Sudha Murthy. Are there any grandmothers here?” The audience responded with applause and laughter, setting an easy and joyful tone.

The first story was about a kind king named Amrit. He wanted everyone in his kingdom to stay happy. One day, he stood on his balcony and asked loudly, “Are you happy?” The next morning, the happy people of the kingdom gathered below. The king started singing a playful version of “If you are happy and you know it,” which instantly made the audience join the rhythm.

A minister then handed the king a royal proclamation. It asked all happy people to visit the royal garden and collect fruits. The next day, the happy crowd arrived and filled their bags with apples, mangoes and oranges. Suddenly, there was not a single fruit left. People felt upset. They did not want to work, but they wanted more fruits. They walked away and soon found another garden that was full. They loaded their bags again, but the bags became heavier and heavier.

They discovered yet another beautiful garden, but this time there were no fruits at all. There was only a river they had to cross to reach a better side. They tried to get a boat, but the current was too strong. People felt sad because they had worked hard carrying their heavy bags and still did not feel happy. They emptied their bags and crossed to the other side. The king waited for them there and taught them a simple message: happiness does not depend on how much you carry. It depends on how lightly you can move through life. The session ended with the cheerful tune of “If you are happy and you know it,” echoing once again.

The second story was called The Upside-Down King, narrated by Shylaja Sampath. It centred on Gaya, a demon who was travelling on a chariot, imagining what to eat for dinner. His mouth began watering, drool overflowed from his mouth, and fell in the holy water. Lord Krishna was using the sacred water to pray to Sun of God. Gaya’s mistake made him angry. Gaya wanted protection, so he went to Arjuna and asked for help in the name of Lord Krishna. Arjuna agreed and promised to protect him.

Gaya claimed that Lord Krishna wanted to kill him. This upset Arjuna. When he returned home, he discussed this with his brother, his wife and his mother. They reminded him that he had given his word and it was his duty to protect Gaya. Sage Narada arrived and advised them to let Subhadra go to Krishna first. Subhadra explained the situation to Krishna, who said that he would never go against his devotee. Subhadra then said that she would support her husband instead. Sage Narada visited Gaya and asked him to apologise to Krishna. Gaya agreed and became a devotee.

Both stories held simple morals shared with warmth. Children in the audience listened closely, and adults smiled at the familiar wisdom that Sudha Murthy’s stories often bring. It was a session that reminded everyone that joy, responsibility and truth can be taught through gentle tales.

Dr Chhavi Gandhi

Dr. Chhavi Gandhi is a doctor turned author who documents books, culture and everyday stories. She writes about how literature shapes community life and personal identity. Her work blends clarity with warmth, grounded observation and a deep appreciation for storytelling.