With over 350 such magazines published and widely circulated across the state every year, the 100-year-old Diwali Ank tradition unique to Maharashtra, continues to thrive even today. Libraries register several special memberships for Diwali Ank readers, exhibitions and discussions on themes depicted in the magazines are also common.

Yet, this flourishing tradition is now facing some challenges. The reason: declining interest and readership among young Marathi readers, thanks to the onslaught of television and Internet. In fact, this has now even prompted discussion among the Marathi literary community on how these unique Diwali magazines can be made more attractive to youngsters.

“It is not the case that youngsters don’t read at all, since the Diwali Ank is a standard feature at any Marathi home during Diwali, and children inevitably flip through them. But by and large it is adults above 30 and 40 years who take an active interest in reading,” said Vinaya Khadpekar, executive editor of publishing house Rajhans Granthavedh, who wrote about this issue in this month’s edition of their house magazine.

The main reason for this is the mental set-up of the youngsters, says noted author VB Deshpande. “Youth today feel they don’t have enough time to sit and read serious literature, and would rather listen to it on a CD. But they do not realise that by doing this they are missing out on the rich experience of reading, which gives knowledge and wisdom instead of just information. This is true for Marathi literature as a whole, but a Diwali Ank provides an occasion to promote serious reading,” said Deshpande.

Another reason for the apathy towards Diwali magazines is that very few deal with issues and themes that are of interest to youngsters, feels author and retired Marathi professor Medha Sidhaye. “There could be special sections devoted to youth, dealing with themes like study and career tips, short stories and poems on adolescent relationships, and other such topics that they can relate to,” she said.

Guidance and tips to youngsters on how to groom their talents for writing can also be featured. “In an age where the youth is fascinated by fame and wealth, children can be provided incentives for writing, and they should receive objective advice on how to fine tune their writing skills,” said Sidhaye. Naturally, monetary incentives also play an important role.

Tie-ups with television channels for giving reviews and information on Diwali Ank, organising live discussion forums will also help in creating greater awareness. “The success of the television medium can be seen through music shows like Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, where children display their skill and deep study of classical music. The same interest could be generated in literature if the right media are used,” said Khadpekar.

Factfile