A book discussion was held at the Government Law College, Ernakulam. More than 50 students participated in the discussion over 'Premalekhanam' written by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer.
Students unanimously chose this book because in the era of digital relationships and self-concern, it is vital to regain the passion of love in its real essence. This book is a classic of Malayalam Literature. The students could relive their own experiences they had while reading from the work of the Beypore Sultan. Participants in the discussion offered their own unadulterated opinions on the popular book, a humorous love story.
Rahul, the editor of the college magazine, said he was inspired to organise the event after seeing a graffiti at a tea shop near the High Court of Kerala. One of the few quotes written on the wall included, "Chayayodoppam alpam sahityam," which means "a little bit of literature with tea." Since then Rahul had been trying to find out a way to present the students an opportunity to discuss freely their views on various books.
Professional college students tend to confine themselves to academics alone and they lose the humane touch at some point of life, Rahul explained the benefit of book discussions. Students' Union has a duty to ensure that literature does not fade away from their minds, he added.
The model chosen by the Students' Union to promote reading habit can be adopted by other professional colleges as the courses tend to tire the students with vast syllabi, projects and practicals. They forget to live and soon get entangled in the demands of employment. Book discussions can expand the horizons of our thoughts, improve our communication skills and for those with writing aspirations, the activity is helpful to gain novel ideas.
The University Union Councillor Arun Sebastian, Literary Club Secretary Akhil Alphonse and other students spoke at the function held on January 22 at the college canteen. The Magazine Committee, the organiser of the event, said it will hold such discussions frequently.
Hope every professional college ensures that students do not forget to read, dream, write and fly, because literature is the most significant expression of humanity.