An attempt to read humans

In an attempt to challenge the stereotypes in the society through dialogues and conversations, Harshad Dinkar Fad, a Media Management student of Annapurna International School of Film and Media started ‘Human Library’ recently in Hyderabad.

The aim of the Human Library is to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge the stereotypes of society through dialogues. It was first started in Copenhagen, Denmark by brothers Ronni Abergel and Dany as a part of their project of Roskilde Festival in 2000.

Since then the concept was spread to more than 60 countries across the world. The first Human Library in India was launched in Indore, Madhya Pradesh last year. In Hyderabad, it was launched in March this year and till now two events were organised at Phoenix Arena and British Council.
Speaking with The Hans India, Harshad Dinkar Fad, founder of Human Library Hyderabad shared the details of the concept.

“The Human Library is like a regular library but it replaces books with human beings. Our objective is to help people appreciate others’ differences; understand social barriers by listening and relating to their experiences.

The living books here are the people who have experienced prejudice in their life due to age, disability, gender identity, religion, sexual preference, racism and more. People who visit Human Library can borrow these living books (human beings), have a conversation with them and experience the stereotypes that still exist in society and can spread a word about it in social media.”

Sharing about how Human Library was started in Hyderabad, Harshad says, “Last year, I read about this concept on the internet and I wanted to introduce it in Hyderabad.

In India, we have various cultures and traditions and at the same time, we also have many problems like domestic violence, child sexual abuse among others. It is sad that no one comes forward to address these issues in public. I thought this initiative will help people to come forward and address their issues.”

Harshad also said that Human Library is a place where difficult questions regarding stereotypes in society are answered. “Till now we have organised two events in the city and we have received a great response. We are planning our next event on May 27. We will also expand this concept all over India in future,” Harshad concludes.

By V Sateesh Reddy