- Third and largest edition of Adani International School’s literary festival begins with 800 students in attendance
- Padma Bhushan author urges children to read deeply, think independently and embrace discipline
- Workshops, story labs and creative studios transform the ADIS campus into a vibrant world of ideas
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, NOV 25
Adani International School (ADIS), Shantigram, opened the third and most expansive edition of Bookflix 2025, its flagship festival dedicated to reading, storytelling and creative exploration, with renowned author and Padma Bhushan awardee Sudha Murty gracing the inaugural ceremony as Chief Guest.
Welcoming her, Namrata Adani, Promoter, ADIS, said the school was honoured to host an author whose writings have shaped young imaginations across India. “In the run-up to Bookflix, our campus has been alive with stories, debates and creative adventures. Our aim is simple — to spark wonder, inspire joy and deepen values that matter,” she said.
A Powerful Message: ‘School Experiences Turn Stones into Diamonds’
Addressing 800 students, Sudha Murty delivered a heartfelt 30-minute talk on reading, values and the importance of embracing every opportunity. She encouraged children to participate in all school activities, describing these experiences as the “stones” that shape future “diamonds”.
She reminded students that discipline, reliability and hard work remain the cornerstones of success:
“Even the most talented child will not grow without dedication,” she said, urging them to respect time, stay curious and be consistent.
Speaking to parents, she emphasised the need to allow children to choose their own paths, rather than pushing them to fulfil unmet parental ambitions.
Reading as a Foundation for Life
Reflecting on the central role of books, Murty praised ADIS for placing reading at the heart of its pedagogy. “When children read, they build imagination, empathy and strong foundations for life,” she said, encouraging students to explore widely and think deeply.
Excited students interacted with the author of beloved titles such as Grandmother’s Bag of Stories, Gopi Diaries, Three Thousand Stitches and Wise and Otherwise. Her personal journey—from becoming TELCO’s first woman engineer to leading the Infosys Foundation—resonated strongly with young learners.
A Touching Tribute by Students
In a warm gesture, ADIS students presented Murty with specially curated books: one created by Primary learners linking her life and work to the IB Learner Profile, and another by Secondary students featuring handwritten letters expressing how her values influence their lives.
Students also presented a collaborative artwork titled “समवृद्धिः (Samavṛddhiḥ)”, symbolising “Growing Together”. The vibrant piece blended values such as curiosity, courage, kindness, innovation and perseverance—core to the ADIS philosophy. Mrs Murty was visibly moved by the affection and creativity of the students.
Campus Turns Into a Literary Universe
Running until 27 November, Bookflix 2025 transforms the ADIS campus into a buzzing literary arena with:
• storytelling performances
• author interactions
• character and creativity labs
• writing studios
• hands-on workshops
The festival reinforces ADIS’s commitment to nurturing confident, curious and compassionate lifelong learners.
Declaring the festival open, Namrata Adani said, “Let the joy of reading, the magic of stories and the power of creativity take over.”
