PVLF 2026

Young Voices Roar: Global Child Authors Launch Anthology at Harmony Fest

Young authors shine as “Once Upon In Our Minds” launches Volume 3 in Pune, celebrating global creativity, storytelling, and the power of children's voices.
on Dec 03, 2025

“Once Upon In Our Minds: Volume 3 – Part 1 & 2” Unveiled in a Heartwarming Celebration in Pune

What happens when over 750 children from 18 countries put pen to paper? Magic. And that magic came alive at Creaticity Mall during Harmony Fest, where the third edition of the international story writing competition Once Upon In Our Minds launched Volume 3 – Part 1 & 2 in a grand celebration of creativity, courage, and young talent.

Founded in 2022 by the now 11-year-old author and changemaker Ridhhaan Jaiin, the initiative gives children aged 5 to 16 a global platform to become published authors—free of cost. Over the past three years, Once Upon In Our Minds has helped more than 30 children from around the world see their stories in print.

“I wanted kids like me to have a voice and a book to call their own,” shared Ridhhaan during his opening speech, recalling the inspiration behind the initiative.

This season drew entries from across 18 countries—including the U.S., U.K., UAE, Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Eleven outstanding stories were selected by a distinguished panel of judges: Vidya Kandoi, Sonia Menghnani, and Paramjit. To cater to the diverse age groups, the published stories were divided into two books: Part 1 features stories for readers under 10 years, while Part 2 showcases narratives from older participants.

“Seeing my story in a real book made me feel like a real author!” beamed Viha Mehta, one of the youngest winners featured in Part 1, clutching her copy with pride.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome by Ridhhaan, who walked the audience through the journey of the competition—from a budding idea to a global movement. The celebration was filled with energy, applause, and proud smiles as families and supporters gathered in support of the young authors. Sonia Menghnani and S. Soundaryarajan then honored key contributors from the Pragati-E Vichaar Literature Festival (PVLF)—Shreelekha Shinde, Kyra Nair, Jinal Shah, and Ridhhaan himself—for their dedication to nurturing literary talent.

CEO and Co-Founder of RidhzWorld Publishing, Radhicka V Jain, recognized several supporting partners who have played a pivotal role in expanding the reach of the initiative. Among those honored were Rommal Surana (Nanhagyan Foundation), Sejal Ray (Taare Zameen Par Community), Jigna Malwankar (Bookaholics), and Kunal Manusware & Aarti Manusmare (Stashlers Storytelling Walls). Media and community collaborators such as Pune Pulse, Frontlist Media, Pragati Vichar Literature Festival (PVLF), and Enlit Kids were also appreciated for their continued support.

A special moment during the evening was the presentation of the Stashlers Star Story Award, introduced by Kunal Manusmare and Aarti Manusmare of Stashlers Storytelling Walls. This unique recognition was awarded to two standout authors—Riddhima Bhagwat and Janani Devanathan—for their exceptional storytelling. Both winners were gifted an exclusive personalized six-frame set featuring their stories, a keepsake capturing their creative journey in vivid, visual form.

As anticipation built, the stage was set for the grand unveiling. The eleven young authors, joined by members of the RidhzWorld Publishing team and key supporters, proudly held up their books for the world to see. The featured authors present at the event were Aadra Joshi, Akshaj Chilbule, Aryaveer Darunkar, Debangshi Chakraborty, Janani Devanathan, Kabir Dhody, Riddhima Bhagwat, Shriyash Chavan, and Viha Mehta. Though unable to attend in person, Sragvi Pallerla (Mumbai) and Jasmine Harvey (Australia) received special mention and heartfelt applause for their stories published in Part 2.

In closing, Radhicka V Jain extended her heartfelt gratitude to the core team of RidhzWorld Publishing, applauding their tireless efforts behind the scenes in bringing the project to life. Special thanks were offered to Gayatri Shankar (Business Head, RidhzWorld Publishing), Shreelekha Shinde, and Samruddhi Naik. “This initiative is more than publishing—it’s about igniting imagination and giving children a voice,” she shared.

With the successful release of Volume 3, Once Upon In Our Minds continues to grow as a beacon of young creativity. And for those who missed the opportunity this season, the next chapter begins now—registrations for Season 4 are officially open, inviting more young storytellers from around the globe to share their worlds, one story at a time.

“Every child has a story. We’re just here to make sure the world listens,” said Ridhhaan, smiling as the celebration drew to a close.

As these young authors turn the page on their first published stories, one thing is certain—their journey has only just begun.