National Reading Day 2025: Celebrating P.N. Panicker’s Legacy and the Power of Books
Lead: A Tribute to the Father of India’s Library Movement
On June 19, 2025, India will commemorate National Reading Day, a heartfelt tribute to Puthuvayil Narayana Panicker, widely revered as the “Father of the Library and Literacy Movement.” This annual observance honors Panicker’s lifelong mission to promote literacy and foster a culture of reading, particularly in Kerala, where his grassroots efforts transformed the state into one of India’s most literate regions. National Reading Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the transformative power of books and an opportunity to inspire a new generation of readers across the nation.
The History of National Reading Day
National Reading Day is observed every year on June 19, marking the death anniversary of P.N. Panicker, who passed away in 1995. While the national observance began in 2017, Kerala has been commemorating Panicker’s contributions since 1996. That year, the state designated June 19 as a day to honor his pivotal role in advancing literacy and establishing a robust network of public libraries.
In 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially declared June 19 as National Reading Day, elevating the commemoration to a nationwide event. The decision underscored the importance of Panicker’s work and aimed to inspire reading habits across India. Today, the day is celebrated with events such as book fairs, reading sessions, library memberships drives, and literary discussions, all aimed at promoting the joy of reading.
P.N. Panicker: The Visionary Behind Kerala’s Literacy Movement
Born on March 1, 1909, in Neelamperoor, Kerala, P.N. Panicker was a teacher whose passion for education extended beyond the classroom. Recognizing that access to books was limited in rural areas, he embarked on a mission to democratize knowledge. In 1926, at the age of 17, Panicker founded the Sanadanadharmam Library, his first step toward building a knowledge-driven society.
Over the decades, Panicker established numerous public libraries across Kerala, laying the groundwork for the Travancore Library Association in 1945. This association, initially comprising 47 local libraries, grew significantly and evolved into the Kerala Granthsala Sangham (KGS). By the time Kerala achieved statehood in 1956, the KGS had expanded to include nearly 6,000 libraries. In 1977, the Kerala government took over the organization, renaming it the Kerala State Library Council, which continues to promote literacy today.
Panicker’s efforts were instrumental in making Kerala India’s most literate state, with a literacy rate of 96.2% as per the 2011 Census, far surpassing the national average. His legacy endures through the thousands of libraries he helped establish and the millions of lives transformed through reading.
Why National Reading Day 2025 Matters
National Reading Day 2025 is more than a commemoration; it’s a call to action to embrace reading as a tool for personal and societal growth. In an era dominated by digital distractions, the day highlights the enduring value of books in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. It also underscores the importance of literacy in empowering communities and driving progress.
Key Objectives of National Reading Day
- Promoting Literacy: Encouraging reading among children, youth, and adults to bridge literacy gaps.
- Honoring P.N. Panicker: Celebrating the visionary who made books accessible to all.
- Building Reading Communities: Fostering connections among readers through book clubs and literary events.
- Inspiring Lifelong Learning: Highlighting books as a source of knowledge and personal development.
The day also aligns with India’s broader educational goals, including the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy. By promoting reading, National Reading Day contributes to creating a knowledge-based economy and a more informed citizenry.
P.N. Panicker’s Lasting Impact
Panicker’s contributions went beyond establishing libraries. He believed that reading was a fundamental right and a catalyst for social change. His grassroots approach involved mobilizing communities to set up libraries, often in rural areas where access to education was limited. These libraries became hubs of learning, offering books, newspapers, and a space for intellectual exchange.
“Reading is the foundation of a progressive society,” Panicker once said, a quote often cited during National Reading Day celebrations. His vision transformed Kerala into a model of literacy, inspiring other states to emulate his efforts. Today, the P.N. Panicker Foundation, established in his honor, continues to promote reading and literacy across India.
A Snapshot of Panicker’s Achievements
- Founded Sanadanadharmam Library in 1926, his first public library.
- Established Travancore Library Association in 1945, uniting 47 libraries.
- Led Kerala Granthsala Sangham, expanding to 6,000 libraries by 1956.
- Paved the Way for Universal Literacy in Kerala, achieving near-total literacy by the late 20th century.
How to Celebrate National Reading Day 2025
National Reading Day 2025 offers countless ways to engage with books and build a reading habit. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting, here are practical ways to participate:
Tips to Cultivate a Reading Habit
- Join a Book Club: Connect with fellow readers online or at your local library to share insights and recommendations.
- Explore Your Favorite Genre: Start with books that interest you, whether it’s fiction, history, or self-help.
- Set a Reading Goal: Commit to reading a certain number of pages or books each month.
- Exchange Literary Takeaways: Discuss books with friends or family to deepen your understanding.
- Visit a Library: Sign up for a library membership and explore their collection.
- Be Patient: If a book feels slow initially, give it time—some stories unfold gradually.
- Support Local Authors: Read works by Indian authors to discover diverse perspectives.
Nationwide Events and Initiatives
Across India, libraries, schools, and cultural organizations will host events to mark National Reading Day. Expect:
- Book Fairs: Showcasing regional and national literature.
- Reading Challenges: Encouraging participants to read a set number of books.
- Workshops: Teaching storytelling, creative writing, and literary appreciation.
- Library Drives: Promoting memberships and book donations to underprivileged communities.
In Kerala, the P.N. Panicker Foundation will lead initiatives like the “Vayana Varam” (Reading Week), a week-long celebration featuring reading sessions and literary competitions.
The Broader Implications of National Reading Day
National Reading Day is not just about honoring a historical figure; it’s about addressing contemporary challenges. In India, despite progress, literacy gaps persist, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. According to UNESCO, India has one of the world’s largest illiterate populations, with over 200 million adults lacking basic reading skills. Initiatives like National Reading Day aim to tackle this by promoting literacy at the grassroots level.
Moreover, reading fosters skills essential for the 21st century, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and cultural awareness. In a diverse nation like India, books can bridge divides, offering insights into different languages, traditions, and perspectives.
Reader Takeaway: Why You Should Pick Up a Book
Books are more than entertainment; they’re gateways to new ideas and experiences. Reading regularly can:
- Enhance cognitive abilities and memory.
- Reduce stress and improve mental health.
- Broaden your worldview through diverse narratives.
- Equip you with knowledge to navigate a complex world.
As P.N. Panicker envisioned, a reading habit empowers individuals and strengthens communities. National Reading Day 2025 is the perfect opportunity to start your reading journey or inspire others to do the same.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives Through Reading
National Reading Day 2025 is a celebration of P.N. Panicker’s enduring legacy and the timeless power of books. From founding a single library in 1926 to sparking a literacy revolution, Panicker’s work continues to inspire millions. As India observes this day, let’s recommit to reading—not just for ourselves but for a more informed, connected, and progressive society.
Whether you pick up a novel, join a book club, or donate books to a local library, your actions on June 19, 2025, can contribute to Panicker’s dream of a nation united by knowledge. So, grab a book, turn the page, and let the journey begin.
