The 11th morning of the 11th month of 2011 saw me setting out – on behalf of Bookaroo in the City – for the Ahata Thakurdas M.C.D. Primary School for girls located in Karol Bagh, New Delhi.

Rajesh  Khar from Pratham Books joined me there.

This school is tucked away in one of several narrow lanes bordering the Sarai Rohilla railway station. I was reminded of a time when one could take a leisurely walk down almost any of Delhi’s lanes or roads without fear of being pushed around, honked at or run over. How times have changed !

The little girls seated expectantly on a dari, welcoming me with friendly smiles, were from classes 1 to 5. After every story I told them, I stopped to ask if they wanted me to continue. Young kids are honest. If they don’t want to hear you any more, they tell you. Since these little girls kept nodding, I told them 4 stories and didn’t try their patience any further!

An interaction with children can often be tiring, but it is a most satisfying kind of tiredness.

After a pleasant chat with the Principal and teachers of the school, Rajesh and I left, plunging once again into the chaos and cacophony of modern Delhi.

- Anupa Lal