Narodowe Czytanie (National Reading Day) is a nationwide initiative that promotes reading and celebrates the rich heritage of Polish literature. Held under the honorary patronage of the Presidential Couple of Poland, this annual event brings communities together through shared literary experiences.

On September 6, 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting Narodowe Czytanie 2025 – An Afternoon with Jan Kochanowski, a wonderful celebration of Polish literary tradition. This year’s edition was dedicated to the timeless poetry of Jan Kochanowski, one of the most influential figures of the Polish Renaissance. His profound reflections on life, nature, and human emotion continue to resonate with readers across generations, proving the enduring power of words written centuries ago.

The Polish Institute in New Delhi, in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Poland, held the event in the embassy’s cinema hall. Guests were welcomed by Head of Mission Dr. Piotr Antoni Świtalski and Polish Institute Director Małgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, setting festive tone for the afternoon.

The event began with an insightful presentation by Dr. Tatiana Szurlej, a Polish language lecturer at the Delhi University, who spoke about Kochanowski’s life and literary legacy. Students of Polish language from the university read selections of the poet’s work in Polish, English, and Hindi, giving the audience a multilingual encounter with his poetry.

Meanwhile, the youngest participants took part in creative painting workshops.

A lively and interactive element of the afternoon featured the students performing Kochanowski’s epigrams as pantomimes — inviting the audience to guess the titles of the works being portrayed.

The meeting concluded with a warm conversation over linden tea with honey, bringing participants together to reflect, connect, and continue celebrating Polish literature.