House of Wisdom highlights 'Kalila wa Dimna' at SCRF

Visitors are excited to see the classical fables of 'Kalila wa Dimna' through interactive technologies and once again dive into the ever-lasting wonders of classical stories.

- Jamil Khan

The classical stories of 'Kalila wa Dimna' are being presented at the exclusive stall of House of Wisdom (HoW) which takes part in the 16th Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), running from April 23 to May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, with a special focus on the timeless fables of Kalila wa Dimna.

Originating in ancient Sanskrit and later translated into Middle Persian, Kalila wa Dimna entered the Arabic literary tradition through the 8th-century translator Abdullah Ibn Al Muqaffa, a key figure in Abbasid-era literature.

The beloved work is now being brought to life for young readers through a series of interactive experiences and storytelling sessions at the HoW booth.

The initiative aims to present the classic tales in a fresh, engaging format that blends play with learning-encouraging critical thinking and helping children explore universal values through symbolic narratives.

Renowned for their moral and philosophical depth, the stories of Kalila wa Dimna have played a significant role in shaping educational and literary traditions across cultures.

Their continued relevance today underscores the enduring power of storytelling in cultivating wisdom, empathy, and imagination.