A decade of learning
Updated On: 22 November, 2019 08:02 AM IST | Dalreen Ramos
In its 10th year, India's only conclave for creators of children's content presents a platform for discussion, masterclasses and networking opportunity
The Jumpstart festival has conducted over 30 masterclasses so far
The children's book industry has largely evolved over the past decade — not only is literature available in more regional languages but there is also an expansion in genres, such as climate-fiction. Put together by the German Book Office New Delhi, the central contact for the German and Indian book industry, JUMPSTART facilitates an exchange between experts and creative professionals.
The theme of the festival for its 10th edition that kicks off this weekend is Beyond the Book. First up, Neeraj Jain, MD, Scholastic India will give an overview of the Indian landscape of children's literature, while storytelling community Wattpad India's country head Devashish Dharma will discuss the importance of digital platforms. The event also delves into adaptations with a panel featuring author of Bard of Blood Bilal Siddiqi and Story Ink's Sidharth Jain. Animator Shilpa Ranade and award-winning author Paro Anand will also conduct masterclasses for writers and illustrators.
New on the block
Venke Sharma and Mita Kapur
For the first time, the festival includes a primer on author branding and promotion. The session will feature digital marketer and author Venke Sharma with literary agent Mita Kapur of Siyahi and will be moderated by Asad Lalljee. Talking about common mistakes authors make on social media, Sharma says, "Some often choose the wrong platform; if you're going to talk about your personal life on Facebook, then the relevance of your book is lost, unless your personal brand is as good as the content you're producing." Kapoor shares an important tip for those who wish to approach a literary agent. "Don't write to an agent and to publishers simultaneously. Do your research — follow the submission guidelines and write a cover note," she suggests.
On November 23, 9.30 am
At Essar House, Mahalaxmi.
Log on to jumpstartfest.com
Cost Rs 2,000
ADVERTISEMENT
Poll
Who will win the Punjab Elections?
Catch up on all the latest Mumbai news, crime news, current affairs, and also a complete guide on Mumbai from food to things to do and events across the city here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates
Trending Stories
Latest Web Stories
Latest Photos
17 December, 2025 11:56 AM IST | IN PHOTOS: MLAs at Vidhan Bhavan during Maharashtra Legislative Council polls
Asif Ali Sayed
09 September, 2024 09:32 PM IST | IN PHOTOS: People in Mumbai celebrate Gauri Puja during Ganeshotsav
Asif Ali Sayed
09 September, 2024 09:13 PM IST | IN PHOTOS: Mumbai witnesses sunny weather as rains take a break
Asif Ali Sayed
09 September, 2024 01:53 PM IST | In Photos: Amit Shah attends Ganeshotsav 2024 festivities in Mumbai
Divya Nair
Latest Videos
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest Headlines
14 July, 2026 04:05 PM IST | mid-day online correspondent
14 July, 2026 11:32 AM IST | Bespoke Stories
10 July, 2026 02:40 PM IST | Makepeace Sitlhou