President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, on Tuesday released a visually spectacular book that makes learning about India fun for little ones. Titled “India: An Alphabet Ride”, the book uses the alphabet to denote various aspects about India through detailed illustrations that blend India’s rich history, architecture, diversity of food, customs and languages with our values systems, lifestyles, and ways that we perceive ourselves, a press communiqué released by JSPl, Ranchi stated.
The book is the brainchild of famous Kuchipudi Dancer, Shallu Jindal, who has spent more than two years researching the book and collating material and ideas that were then translated into visuals by the very talented graphic illustrator, Priya Kuriyan. Together, they have produced a classic work for children of all ages. It’s also the perfect book to give as a gift and to read in a classroom or to be discussed by parents and grandparents with their little ones.
“To begin with A for ‘Anthem’ and do the same so visually is lovely. This is a great book and a wonderful idea,” said the President while launching the book formally. “A lot of children will benefit from the book,” Omita Paul, secretary to the President said, praising the effort of the author.
“Teaching children through visuals is always easier and more exciting for them. India was a challenge as there is just so much that one can keep learning about. But yes, in the process, I learnt a lot and would love to share it with our young ones,” says the author, Shallu Jindal, who is also the Chairperson of the National Bal Bhavan.
The detailed visuals, bright colours and borders, and wonderful symmetry that make this book so different from the rest are the result of Priya Kuriyan’s dedication and vivid visual vocabulary. “This book is one of the longest projects I’ve worked on. When I look at the finished work now, I am ever so proud.”
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