


National Book Trust, India
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@nbt_india
An apex body of Ministry of Education, Govt. of India, dedicated to produce good literature in Indian languages and to promote books and reading in the country.









The last session of the day was 'Celebrating Tagore Jayanti’ organised by Indian community in Bogota in association with Embassy of India, Bogota. The session began with the Ambassador of India to Colombia, who highlighted that in 1913, Rabindranath Tagore became the first Asian to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, making him a figure from India whose voice resonated across the world. He explained that Tagore had a profound connection to the idea of cultural dialogue, believing that civilisations do not grow in isolation, but through exchange and mutual understanding. For him, the gathering in Bogota represented that same vision: India and Colombia coming together through literature and shared human values. Sra. Norma Donato (Decana de Facultad – Seminario Andrés Bello, Instituto Caro y Cuervo) reflected on reading as an act of community rather than only an individual experience. She spoke about poetry as a space where song, thought and reflection come together. She also mentioned Tagore’s educational vision, highlighting the school he founded with a completely different concept—an open-air learning space that he described as a nest rather than a cage, where education was meant to inspire freedom and creativity instead of restriction. Kumar Vikram, Chief Editor and Joint Director of National Book Trust, India, and Head of India Guest Country Project, shared that it was a privilege to be the Guest of Honour in a celebration dedicated to Tagore. He emphasised that Tagore’s exploration of internationalism and human connection continues to serve as a guide in modern global interactions. For him, Tagore remains a constant presence and an enduring reference whenever conversations about culture, literature, and international understanding take place. After these presentations, the event continued with cultural performances of dance, music and singing, creating a celebration that honoured Tagore not only through words and reflection, but also through artistic expression and cultural harmony. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

A gentle hush has begun to settle over the Kids’ Zone of the India Pavilion on the penultimate day of the Bogota International Book Fair, FILBo-2026. The air, once bright with laughter and discovery, now carries a tender melancholy—like the closing hours of a traditional Indian wedding, when joy and parting intertwine, and hearts quietly prepare for separation. Visitors in Bogotá linger a little longer, their smiles tinged with wistfulness, as if reluctant to let go of a journey that has brought distant cultures so beautifully close. Amid this soft shadow of farewell, the day unfolded with luminous energy. Deepak Karanjikar, an acclaimed figure of Indian theatre, breathed life into the morning with an interactive session titled _Introducing Indian Performance Arts: An Interactive Session with Kids_. Through expressive gestures and playful exercises, he opened a window into the soul of Indian performing traditions. His art transcended language, gently carried into Spanish by Omar Ferrer, ensuring that every child could feel the rhythm of emotion and storytelling. Young participants responded with unrestrained enthusiasm—crafting characters, sketching dreams, and embodying stories that danced between imagination and tradition. The enchantment continued as Diego Francisco Sanchez, fondly known as Dipacho, guided children through _Fun with Pictures_. From whimsical creations like _Monster Eater (Comemonstruos)_ to evocative tales such as _Red Bull (Toro Rojo)_ and _Tortoise (Tortuga)_, he revealed the magic hidden in simple shapes. Under his guidance, lines and colors blossomed into living narratives, nurturing a sense of wonder and creative courage among the young minds gathered. Between these sessions, laughter and curiosity found new expression in lively rounds of India Cultural Quiz, where children eagerly explored the vast tapestry of India’s heritage—from its symbols and cities to its timeless epics and deities. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The last session of the day was ‘Decoding the Digital Diaspora Community'. The session began with Rochelle Miranda, the moderator, who reflected on how many people today live between multiple worlds: the country where they were born, the country to which they migrate, and now the digital world that connects both. She explained that migration no longer means complete separation, because technology has bridged the gap where identity, culture, and relationships can continue to exist across borders. Germán Puyana highlighted India as a particularly fascinating country because of its rich culture, strong biocultural diversity and its global migration presence. He explained that many countries seek highly qualified Indian professionals because of their strong academic and professional skills. Rajesh Kumar Tripathy added that with people, India also sends deep human values and cultural richness. The discussion also focussed on how digital spaces reduce the emotional distance of migration. Rajesh Kumar Tripathy explained that although physical distance creates separation from one’s homeland, digital tools help preserve closeness with family, culture and identity. Deep Saikia shared that even simple actions like sending a WhatsApp message show how impossible it has become to remain disconnected from technology. He also added that many people come together because technology allow information to spread quickly and communities to stay connected. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The third session of the day was 'Changing Dynamics of the Creative Economy'. Harold Trompetero opened the discussion by sharing his personal journey with dyslexia and how it shaped his need to find alternative ways of communication. He explained that receiving a camera allowed him to express ideas visually, making audio-visual storytelling a natural path for him, even though he had originally wanted to focus on writing. Kumar Vikram, the moderator, reflected on how current global changes have transformed the way people approach ideas and creativity. Deepak Karanjikar added that the creative economy has become one of the most influential forces today, connecting strongly with younger generations. He emphasised that it is not limited to artists alone, but extends to entire communities, creating opportunities for collaboration and innovation. He also pointed out that both India and Colombia make this connection even stronger. Harold later spoke about the transformative power of cinema, explaining that contemporary audio-visual creators collect reality and reinterpret it through storytelling. He also highlighted the importance of India’s audio-visual industry, where each region has its own strong production identity. The conversation also turned to globalisation and artificial intelligence. Deepak Karanjikar introduced the idea that the traditional concept of “citizen” has evolved into that of a global citizen, where people are interconnected and what affects one region often impacts the world. For him, the creative economy crosses borders and continents naturally. Harold described AI as a useful tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. He believes that while many processes may change, human mediation will always remain essential because AI cannot replace the human mind or emotional depth. Kumar Vikram concluded with his remarks that society is highly dynamic and often returns to its original values, especially now that there is increasing attention to whether creative work is genuinely human-made or generated by AI. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The second session was 'Music: The Elixir of Life'. The session was moderated by Rosa Cárdenas, who began with a reflection on how music functions as the “elixir of life.” Gustavo Angarita explained that Colombia is naturally a festive country, where everything—even sadness—is transformed into song. For him, "music is part of Colombian identity, deeply connected to celebration, dance and emotional expression". He also highlighted the cultural connection between Colombia and India, noting that both countries share vibrant colours, rhythm, dance and a strong musical spirit. Humayun Khan described music as something universal that belongs to everyone. He explained that music is present in everything—in the heartbeat, in walking and even in the sound of the wind. For him, music is the soul and a form of devotion that exists all around us, depending on how we choose to perceive it. Gustavo reflected on his childhood memories of vallenato music, especially the sound of the bass, which represented celebration and joy, in contrast with the classical music his father listened to. He explained that Colombians often have a strong musical sense because music and dance are deeply rooted in everyday life. Both speakers also discussed the strong relationship between music and cinema. Humayun Khan explained that in India, films have always revolved around music, and although styles change with time, music remains central to the emotional experience of storytelling. Gustavo added that in India, songs are often promoted before the film itself, so audiences already know the music before entering the cinema, creating a stronger connection with the story. He contrasted this with Western cinema, where musicals have become less common, and expressed his belief that the “Eastern magic” of musical storytelling should be recovered, as it once had a stronger presence even in Colombian society. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The first session on the thirteenth day at Bharat///India Stage was 'Discussing Women Saint Poets: Lal Ded, Meera Bai, and Akka Mahadevi'. The session began with the moderator, Shantanu Gupta, who explained that in India there is a long-standing tradition of honouring goddesses, making the feminine divine a natural part of spiritual and cultural life. He said that in India we celebrate goddesses such as Durga, representing power; Lakshmi, representing prosperity; and Saraswati, representing education and wisdom. Shiv Prasad commented that women have always played an important role in Indian society, with strong participation and recognition in many areas of life. He explained that even major texts such as the Ramayana revolve around women, particularly Sita, whose honour and suffering shape the entire story. He emphasised that "society should not separate 'women poets' from 'poets', but rather recognise all of them as contributors to culture, literature, and spiritual thought." Usha Upadhyay reflected on "how Indian saint poets have served for centuries as transmitters of knowledge and devotion." She described three paths to spiritual connection—yoga, knowledge and devotion—and emphasised that for many people, especially those unable to visit religious places due to daily responsibilities, devotion through the heart is equally meaningful. She shared one of the most powerful ideas of the session: “the soul has no gender.” The discussion was focussed on three important women saint poets. Akka Mahadevi, known for her deep devotion to Shiva and for believing that true worship lived in the heart rather than in rituals. Lal Ded, poet and mystic devoted to Shiva, who shared her teachings through short oral poems known as vakhs, centred on spirituality and self-knowledge. Meera Bai became a symbol of faith and spiritual freedom through her unwavering devotion to Krishna. Through her poems and songs, she expressed love, courage and resistance against social criticism. In conclusion, the moderator highlighted how modern conversations should move beyond separating achievements by gender and instead recognise all contributions equally. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

🇮🇳📚 Relive the vibrant highlights as India shines as the Guest of Honour Country at FILBo Bogotá! From captivating literary moments to a rich showcase of culture, art, and heritage—every frame reflects the spirit of India on the global stage. ✨🌼 A celebration of stories, creativity, and connections that brought audiences together in an unforgettable experience. #IndiaAtFILBo #FILBoBogota #GuestOfHonour #VideoHighlights #BooksAndCulture #LiteratureFestival #CulturalVibes #IncredibleIndia #GlobalShowcase #IndiaCelebrates @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Mario Miranda falls on 2 May 2026. To honor his genius, the National Book Trust, India has put up a special exhibition of Master Illustrators at FILBo 2026. Visitors in Bogotá are deeply appreciating the whimsical and iconic works of Mario Miranda on display at the India Pavilion. #IndiaAtFILBo #FILBo2026 #MarioMiranda #MasterIllustrators #IndianArt #CentenaryCelebration #NationalBookTrust #ReadAndExploreIndia #IndiaInColombia #BogotaInternationalBookFair @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The fourth session of the day was 'Stories that Resonate: Writing for Gen Z Readers'. The panellists were Bibhudatta Pramod Kumar Mishra and Laura Natalia Reina Gómez. The session was moderated by Bhushan Bhave. Bhushan Bhave explained that Generation Z is not defined only by age, but by being a generation shaped by technology. Laura Natalia Reina Gómez reflected on how writing has become more accessible today, as anyone can write their thoughts in their phone and turn them into stories or personal reflections shared on digital platforms. As a content creator, she adapts to shorter formats and fast-paced platforms in order to reach younger audiences while still preserving meaningful messages. Bibhudatta Pramod Kumar Mishra emphasised that this generation is deeply connected to technology, but also more emotionally sensitive and curious. He said, “Young readers want facts, honesty and authenticity, and that writers must earn their trust by addressing relevant issues while helping them stay connected to their roots and values." He also stressed on the responsibility of older generations to guide young people by sharing life experiences and helping them understand reality beyond the fast pace of social media. Laura highlighted mental health, emotional struggles and romance as some of the strongest topics that resonate most with Gen Z. Bibhudatta Pramod Kumar Mishra concluded by warning that technology has shortened attention spans, and that society must encourage young people to spend more time exploring deeper experiences beyond short videos and constant digital distraction. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The third session was the Launch of the Spanish Translation of 'Sultana’s Dream'. Juan David Reina Rozo and Alejandra Cala presented the Spanish translation of Sultana’s Dream, originally written by Begum Rokeya in 1905, Calcutta. They explained that it is considered as "one of the earliest works of science fiction addressing feminist struggles, using a satirical narrative to question power, the body and women’s freedom". The book represents the vision of a woman who, more than one hundred years ago, imagined possibilities that were almost impossible in her time but are much more real for us today. Through her imagination, Begum Rokeya not only challenged the limits of her own society, but also continues to inspire modern readers to imagine new realities and connect with her story. In addition, they mentioned that the book was later adapted into a film, which has helped bring greater visibility both to the story and to Begum Rokeya as a pioneering writer. Considering that science fiction has traditionally been a field dominated by men, they emphasised the importance of giving recognition to a female author whose work was far ahead of its time. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The second session 'Rewriting the Future: Inner Power, Purpose and the World We Choose' was organised by Brahma Kumaris. María Paula, in her presentation, began by explaining that we can observe what happens around us without absorbing its negativity. She emphasised on the importance of letting go of unnecessary thoughts, especially those that do not help us move toward our goals and future purpose. She described the inner self as having three main faculties: the mind, which generates thoughts; the intellect, which makes decisions; and Sanskar, which refers to personality traits and deep inner patterns. According to her, understanding these three elements helps us become more conscious of our actions and emotional responses. She encouraged transforming negative thoughts into positive ones, since inner peace begins with the way we choose to think. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

On the twelfth day, at Bharat///India Stage, the first session was 'A Digital Presentation by Juan Alfredo Pinto Saavedra, Former Ambassador of Colombia to India'. Juan Alfredo Pinto Saavedra spoke about the importance of strengthening political and cultural ties with India and developing a broader understanding of the country. Drawing from his diplomatic career, he reflected on how these international experiences enriched his perspective and deepened his appreciation for different cultural contexts. He shared that his time in India was both a personal and professional journey. Although he was already familiar with India and its culture from his earlier studies, he realised upon arriving that Colombia was not widely known there. This inspired him to write and create a stronger cultural bridge between both countries by sharing stories and perspectives that connected India and Colombia. He discussed his book ‘Flor de Loto: Stories from Asia’, which was later translated into English and Hindi. He explained that translation was not only linguistic, but also deeply cultural. He also highlighted that a translator's work required constant dialogue to preserve the literary essence of the text while also being careful with political interpretations that could emerge in translation. #IndiaAtFILBo #FILBo2026 #JuanAlfredoPinto #IndiaColombiaRelations #DiplomaticDialogue #NationalBookTrust #ReadAndExploreIndia #CulturalExchange #BogotaInternationalBookFair @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

Day 11 at Bogotá International Book Fair 2026 carried forward a vibrant celebration of literature and culture at the India Pavilion.📚 With engaging sessions, artistic expressions, and meaningful exchanges, Read and Explore India continued to resonate with visitors. #IndiaAtFILBo #FILBo2026 #Day11Highlights #IndiaPavilion #ReadAndExploreIndia #NBTIndia #CulturalExchange #BooksAndCulture #LiteraryMoments @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

Over 50,000 people visiting everyday India Pavilion at FilBo 2026! The India Pavilion is witnessing a massive turnout as visitors explore the diverse range of books, cultural exhibitions, and the special bookstore as now only last three days are left for the closure of the FilBo 2026. #IndiaAtFILBo #FILBo2026 #IndiaPavilion #GuestOfHonour #NationalBookTrust #ReadAndExploreIndia #IndiaInColombia #BogotaInternationalBookFair @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The Kids’ Zone emerged as the radiant heart of the India Pavilion, drawing visitors like a constellation drawing the eye. Its charm was not born of a single element, but of a harmonious blend—the timeless illustrations that whispered stories across generations, the thoughtfully curated spaces, the vibrant Indian books in Spanish, and the inviting corners of creative activity. Together, they shaped a space alive with wonder, where curiosity bloomed freely. On this May Day holiday, families arrived in waves—parents and grandparents hand in hand with eager children—gravitating toward a shared promise: the timeless tales of the Ramayana. At the center stood Shantanu Gupta, the internationally acclaimed author and political analyst at the forefront of reinterpreting Indian classical texts for modern audiences. His voice carried both authority and warmth. What began as a one-hour session unfolded into an immersive two-hour journey, as he guided successive audiences through the vast tapestry of the epic. With the aid of visuals and his own work, he illuminated the Valmiki Ramayana—its seven parts, its thousands of verses, its enduring characters, and the moral universe it inhabits. The session deepened into reflection, where values like loyalty, honesty, and integrity stood in contrast to ego and arrogance. Children did not merely listen; they responded, recognised, and related. Through questions, drawings, and a spirited quiz, the epic became not distant mythology but a mirror to their own lives. Earlier, the morning had opened with Irene Vasco’s gentle magic. In “Hear a Story, Share a Smile,” the renowned children’s author and acclaimed reading promoter wove narratives using maps and imagery, inviting children to co-create stories that bridged continents and imaginations. By day’s end, the Kids’ Zone had become more than a space—it was a living dialogue between cultures, a tapestry of shared stories, and a quiet testament to the healing power of storytelling in a restless world. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The last session of the day was 'Stories We Owe the Society: Why I Write'. The moderator, Kumar Vikram, quoting George Orwell’s famous essay ‘Why I Write’ reflected on the idea that writing can sometimes appear to be a self-centred and egoistic activity, since many writers want to leave a mark on the world, achieve something meaningful, and often place themselves at the centre of the story. However, he questioned whether this is truly selfishness, suggesting that writing becomes valuable when it moves beyond personal ambition and becomes a way of serving others through stories and shared experiences. Rajesh Kumar Tripathy explained that his stories do not belong only to him, but to the people around him. He believes that "as a writer, his role is to serve by giving voice to experiences that belong to society". Kumar Vikram connected this idea to his own reflection, pointing out that "if poetry and storytelling are created for others and as a form of service, then writing becomes an act of responsibility and connection". David Fernandez, speaking from his perspective as a cultural manager, described himself as a cultural bridge. For him, "writing and sharing stories are social acts that allow people to connect, understand one another, and recognise similarities instead of focusing only on differences". He explained that when stories are placed in books, they should not only reflect the writer’s personal life, but also open space for readers to understand other realities, cultures and societies. Emilio Aparicio Rodriguez contributed from the perspective of photography, explaining that being a photographer also means being a storyteller. He shared how entering a cave during one of his travels and seeing ancient drawings transformed him, connecting him to the past and showing him how humans have always used images to preserve stories. For him, "photography remains one of the most powerful forms of storytelling". Swaranjit Savi reflected on writing as a continuous search for identity and expression. He explained that no matter how much he writes, there is always a sense that something remains unsaid, leaving a permanent emptiness. Through paintings, "he can express even more than with words". He said that his poems and paintings often complement each other, though at times they can also contradict one another. He related a deeply personal experience of responding to the demise of his mother and how that emotion made him connect with the wider audience. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia

The third session 'Path Towards Self-Leadership' was organised by Brahma Kumaris. Marcelo Bulk began by reflecting on the origins of Brahma Kumaris in 1936 and introduced the idea that leadership is not based on quick solutions or “magic tricks,” but on inner awareness and personal responsibility. He explained that true leadership, according to him, is something natural that flows from within. He added that instead of depending on others or waiting for change, individuals should choose to become their own leaders. In times of crisis, leadership is not only about directing others, but about having the strength to guide oneself with clarity and purpose. Marcelo Bulk also highlighted the power of cooperation, explaining that when everyone contributes a little, great achievements become possible. He emphasised self-knowledge as one of the most important aspects of leadership. @PIB_Edu @EduMinOfIndia @dpradhanbjp @FILBogota @IndiaEmbBogota @IndianDiplomacy @CorferiasBogota @mincultura @MIB_India @MEAIndia