Aizawl, Dec 17: The Mizoram Youth Commission (MYC) successfully organized MYC Read Fest 2025 at Aijal Club Park on December 15, bringing together readers, writers, students, and literature enthusiasts in a celebration of books and reading. The event was aimed at revitalizing reading habits among young people and fostering a stronger literary culture in Mizoram.
The festival featured a wide range of activities designed to encourage reading and make literature more engaging and accessible to people of all ages. Throughout the day, participants took part in various book-related events, competitions, and interactive sessions that highlighted the value of reading as both a source of knowledge and a means of personal development.
One of the major attractions of the festival was the diverse collection of books available for purchase. Readers had the opportunity to explore books from different genres and authors, while members of the MYC Book Club enjoyed special discounts on purchases. Organizers also opened new memberships to encourage more young people to join the reading community and actively participate in literary activities.
The event included painting competitions for children, dedicated game and activity zones, and a colorful cosplay programme where participants dressed up as their favorite literary characters. The cosplay event generated considerable excitement, with participants creatively bringing beloved book characters to life and showcasing their enthusiasm for literature.
A key highlight of the festival was the Meet the Author session, which allowed readers to interact directly with some of Mizoram’s prominent writers. Among those who participated were Lalhruaitluanga Chawngte, F. Vanlalrochana, Dr. Hannah Lalhlanpuii, and Ruth Khawlhring. The authors shared their experiences, discussed their creative journeys, and answered questions from attendees, providing valuable insights into the world of writing and publishing.
Speaking at the event, MYC Chairman Malsawmzuala Ralte emphasized the transformative power of reading. He noted that reading plays a vital role in shaping character, broadening perspectives, and strengthening resilience in the face of challenges.
“Reading shapes a person’s character. Even in difficult times, reading helps us gain deeper understanding and develop resilience. A strong reading habit produces informed, capable, and responsible citizens,” he said.
The chairman encouraged young people to cultivate a lifelong habit of reading, stressing that books remain one of the most effective tools for education, self-improvement, and intellectual growth.
The festival attracted significant participation from readers not only within Mizoram but also from other states and communities, reflecting the growing appeal of literary events in the region. Many attendees praised the initiative for creating an engaging and inclusive platform that celebrates books and encourages meaningful interaction between readers and authors.
Organizers described the event as a major step toward strengthening Mizoram’s literary environment and nurturing a new generation of readers. They expressed hope that MYC Read Fest would continue to grow in the coming years and inspire more young people to discover the joy of reading.
With its combination of literary discussions, creative activities, and community participation, MYC Read Fest 2025 successfully reinforced the importance of reading and highlighted the role of literature in shaping an informed, imaginative, and culturally vibrant society.
