When books are alive: ‘Read’ people in a Human Library in the city

Have you ever wished that your book spoke to you, maybe even acknowledged the way you react to the twist and turns in the plot? The Serendipity Club, founded by Priyanka Bardia and Pooja Chordia, is organising the ‘Human Library’ on September 7 and 17. Priyanka, a parenting coach, founded the club with her sister-in-law Pooja Chordia to remind people of the importance of human connections through various activities.

Priyanka Bardia & Pooja Chordia

Speaking to DT Next about ‘Human Library’ she says, “I have always been keen on meeting new people and getting to know new things; that’s how I stumbled across a concept from Denmark called The Human Library. People assemble in a place and just talk to each other and get to know one another.

“This concept spread across the globe and made its way to India. It’s been going really well in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Gurgaon. Initially, I was a little sceptical as to how the people of Chennai would take this. But, when we put out creatives announcing the event, the response has been amazing.”

She says that Chennai has always been a city open to new things and experiences and that is the reason they are having the event.

The concept is getting to read humans, instead of a book. Explaining how it works, she says, “Once people register, they are asked if they want to be the book or the readers. The group is then divided into these two categories. The names are put into two separate bowls and each is asked to pick a lot. A reader would pick from the ‘book’ bowl and the session begins.”

She says the best part about picking lots is that these people are complete strangers and have no idea who the other is. This makes you have a conversation and get to know the other person.

“The best part about this is that it helps you with your personal growth and you feel completely free because you know this is a safe space with no judgement. This is also a great place if you are creative and looking to bounce ideas off someone. On the whole, this concept exists to remind people that no one is really alone. Other people’s experiences tend to humble you in different ways,” she remarks.

What’s more for the members of the club? She says that they are working towards curating more interactive experiences that make you feel a human connection. “We are planning on organising a trip where strangers get to know each other. But that’s still a work in progress. At the moment we are focusing on this event and we’re eager to see how it pans out,” she chuckles.

The first session is happening at Butterfly Effect Café on September 7 from 10 am to 12 pm. For more details contact 96001 00299.