Jaipur Reads: A community that is not your typical book club

Reading Time: 3 minutes

In the vibrant cultural landscape of Jaipur, where literature events and festivals abound, there is a distinctive community that deviates from the typical book club norm, offering an unconventional haven for book lovers – ‘Jaipur Reads.’

This literary initiative, born last year in July, has blossomed into a gathering that marries the tranquility of libraries with the warmth of home. Founded by by Nishkant and Karan Beniwal in Jaipur, the community started with a modest four participants but has since grown steadily, with an average attendance of 15-20 members every Sunday morning.

What sets Jaipur Reads apart is its departure from the expected book club dynamics. In a city teeming with cultural events like art, theater, and the famed Jaipur Literature Festival, this community embraces a serene reading experience. Unlike the traditional book club setting, where members discuss a predetermined book, Jaipur Reads fosters a sense of community without the need for active conversations during reading sessions.

The roots of this community can be traced back to Cubbon Reads in Bangalore, where Shruti Sah and Harsh Snehanshu began a silent reading ritual every Saturday in Cubbon Park in December 2022. Their initiative, posted on social media, sparked a movement that has now reached over 70 cities worldwide. In July 2023, Nishkant and Karan, inspired by Cubbon Reads, brought this reading revolution to Jaipur.

The membership of Jaipur Reads spans a diverse spectrum, currently ranging from 18 years to 45 years, encompassing voracious readers, writers, and newcomers alike. Inclusive and beginner-friendly, the community offers a platform for those who seek solace in the written word, like Karan, who, due to his shy nature, had been hesitant to join other book clubs in the past. “There are no forced conversations or awkward small talk during these sessions. Participants are free to come and go as they please, with no subscription charges. Held in a park, the sessions are accessible to everyone, providing a much-needed respite from hectic schedules amid nature and sunlight”, tells Karan.

Beyond the pages of books, Jaipur Reads has become a catalyst for forming connections. The community has birthed another group, ‘Jaipur Paints,’ and members often extend their camaraderie by going for coffee or tea after the reading session. Even as the co-founder, Nishkant, moved away from Jaipur for his educational pursuits, Karan continues to nurture and expand the community, ensuring its longevity. “The group members are also well versed with the activities that are currently being carried out by me such as keeping the instagram page active or making other members feel comfortable when they come. So even if I am not there for a few weeks or if I decide to move out of Jaipur, anyone else from the group can easily take up my role”, elaborates Karan.

For Anshi, who has been a part of Jaipur Reads since its inception, the experience can be encapsulated in one word – ‘joy.’ “The joy of reading under the open sky, the joy of companionship, and the joy of forming lasting connections. This community has not only rekindled my love for reading but has also brought beautiful connections into my life”, says Anshi.

As Jaipur Reads looks to the future, the vision is clear – to become the go-to community for anyone looking to embark on a reading journey. It is not just about the books; it is about finding joy, companionship, and a sense of belonging in the quiet communion of fellow book lovers under the Jaipur sky.