India, Aug. 8 -- From reading in companionable silence to discussing a novel over coffee, book lovers are turning the solitary act of reading into a new social ritual. In Chandigarh as well as Ludhiana, silent reading parties and book clubs are offering a quieter way to connect, one where conversation is optional, but books are not.

Established in 2023, Chandigarh Reads follows an 'anti-gatekeeping policy', keeping its sessions free and open to all, without registration or membership. Participants, including introverts, solo attendees and slow readers, gather in gardens or cafes with books, mats, snacks and occasionally umbrellas. The focus is on unstructured leisure reading in a community setting. On August 9, the club will hold its 98t...