Achievements
Felicitated at Bharat Mandapam, Shreeya Kumar Reflects on Finding Her Voice Through Poetry
The student of Apeejay School, Saket shares her experience of being honoured at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026
Being recognised on a national literary platform is a milestone moment for any young writer. For Shreeya Kumar, a Class XII student of Apeejay School, Saket, the experience of being felicitated at Bharat Mandapam during the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026 was both surreal and deeply affirming. Honoured at the Children’s Pavilion as part of the National Book Trust’s Child Author’s Meet, Shreeya was among four students from the school celebrated for their published works—an achievement that highlighted not just individual talent, but a thriving culture of young authorship.
Read edited excerpts:
What did it mean to be felicitated at Bharat Mandapam during the New Delhi World Book Fair?
It honestly came as a shock at first. When my English teacher told me that I had been selected, my immediate reaction was, “Me? Really?” I was ecstatic. The excitement stayed with me for days, it felt incredible to represent my school on such a prestigious national platform.
How did your family react to this recognition?
My parents were overjoyed and very proud. My father was travelling at the time, but my mother was there with me. We celebrated in a very simple way, by stepping out for some Chinese takeout. It was a small moment, but a very happy one.
What was going through your mind when you spoke on stage at the event?
I felt deeply grounded. Being on that stage made me want to thank everyone who had supported me—my teachers, my family, and the people who believed in my writing. Despite the large audience, the experience made me feel calm and centred.
Tell us about your book Stories Untold. What is it about?
It’s a collection of poems centred on teenage emotions—confusion, growth, exploration, and all the squiggly feelings that come with being a teenager. I’ve always seen poetry as a flow, much like how a painter sees colours and blends them naturally.
What did being among young authors from across India teach you?
It taught me that I’m not alone. There are so many people my age expressing themselves through writing, and that sense of camaraderie is very comforting.
