Cubbon Reads curators are detained as a large crowd arrives for a Secret Santa event

Cubbon Reads started two years ago as an initiative to encourage book reading habits. It has gained nationwide traction, inspiring similar chapters in cities across India. | Photo Credit: File photo

A quiet Saturday gathering of the Cubbon Reeds community took an unexpected turn when park officials allegedly confiscated books and detained curators for hours, for not following park rules after a large crowd attended the event.

Cubbon Reads started two years ago as an initiative where book enthusiasts gather in the park to read privately or in small groups and take photos before dispersing. Over time, the initiative has gained nationwide traction, inspiring similar chapters across India.

Book exchange

Saturday’s event featured the Secret Santa Book Exchange introduced last year. A curator, who requested anonymity, said the unexpectedly large turnout caught the attention of park officials. According to an Instagram post by the community, the authorities allegedly insulted the non-Kannada speaking curators, threatened to harm their careers, and warned of an FIR with a fine of ₹35,000.

Finally, after submitting an apology letter, the curators were released. “This initiative has never been commercial. We want to work with the administration, not against them. “Such incidents threaten the entire movement,” said a member. Another curator added, “We just want to understand a little more. It’s a peaceful gathering that promotes reading and community.”

Park officials version

Officials of the horticulture department claim that they have received complaints of park visitors damaging lawns and trees. However, they refused to comment on the incident.

S Umesh Kumar, president of the Cubbon Park Walkers Association, highlighted the concern of punters climbing trees or tying swings between them, which he considered unsafe and harmful to the park’s environment. “The authorities have provided chairs and benches for reading. The problem arises when people misuse the vacant space of the park, which harms its maintenance,” he said. Hindu.