Reading lets you imagine and travel to different worlds: Actress and entrepreneur Tara Sharma

Actress, entrepreneur, Creator and Presenter Tara Sharma saluja marked national reading day on June 19, with lively interaction with a group of school children aged 11-12.

The event took place in the sprawling library of the children’s Academy Group of Schools in Malad (East).

Kicking off the session with candid admission Tara said, “ I come from a family that loves to read, but honestly, I don’t read as much as I should. I would like to change that and read more.

Last seen in the film, “The Archies” and have been the cute face of many Bollywood movies, the actress led and engaging session with the school kids, where she chatted about the significance of reading and books in our lives. Talking about her association with books, she shared, “My maternal grandfather, Charles Pick (I am half Indian and half English) was a renowned publisher and literary agent, who discovered and managed bestselling author Wilbur Smith and others.

My dad, Pratap Sharma, who passed away 12 years ago, was also an author and an award winning playwright who was also known for his golden voice. My mom wrote a book about her 100-day oerland journey in India back in the 60s. While I don’t read as much as they would, I do understand the role it plays in shaping one’s thoughts and life.”

She then delighted them with a whimsical counting story from her father’s book, encouraging the curious kids to join in the singing parts, which they did with enthusiasm. Tara added, “ for children, reading opens their minds. If not only imparts knowledge, but also lets us imagine and travel to different words through stories.”

I finally mustered the courage to write something, Tara believes that it’s crucial to develop the habit of reading, even if the medium is not always books.

She explained, “In today’s world, with so much technology around us, including social media, it’s important to understand that while reading traditional books is essential, all forms of reading and on all platforms, as long as it’s appropriate, is a way of gaining knowledge. I love reading a bit at bedtime each night, it’s a great way to unwind a busy day. Recently. I finally mustered the courage to write something. I’m not sure if it is a book, script, show or film, but I will know soon.” (Credit : Debarati S Sen)