Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela

by Chitra Soundar, Kanika Nair (Illustrator)

Overview

This hardcover picture book is the third in the much-loved Farmer Falgu series. It follows the kindhearted farmer as he journeys to the Kumbh Mela festival. Farmer Falgu always stops to lend a hand, and this story is a gentle reminder that nice guys don't always finish last. Kanika Nair's striking illustrations capture the colorful chaos and celebration that the Kumbh Mela is, in this charming and thoughtful tale written by award-winning children's book author Chitra Soundar.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9788181903556
Publisher:	Karadi Tales
Publication date:	09/04/2018
Series:	Farmer Falgu Series
Pages:	28
Product dimensions:	9.25(w) x 8.25(h) x (d)
Age Range:	4 - 9 Years

About the Author

Chitra Soundar was born in Chennai and resides in London. She has written over 20 books for children. Chitra also loves to retell folktales, legends and ancient tales from the Indian sub-continent. While she dabbles in chapter books, her first love is picture books. Kanika Nair was born in Jaipur and resides in Tennessee. She is a freelance illustrator, writer and designer of children’s books

Editorial Reviews

"Through this book, readers can learn about an important festival in Hindu culture and also learn about the foods and treats that are common in that region of India. Readers will be inspired by Farmer Falgu to be kind even when kindness requires a sacrifice."

Jambo Books - Mijha Godfrey

Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela is an endearing story of how missed opportunities due to selfless acts of kindness often leads to major opportunities.

Backpack Full of Books

In Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela, Falgu sets on a journey to visit the Kumbh Mela festival in Allahabad with advice from friends and family to witness the sadhu procession, the elephant parade, and to take a dip in the holy river. Falgu, excited to explore all aspects of the Mela finds himself missing out on the very highlights he was there for, while trying to help out people in need. Farmer Falgu is however rewarded for all his good deeds by a series of chance happenings and is able to experience all the moments of the Mela he craved for, concluding his trip with meeting a friend who shares sumptuous Jalebis and Lassi.


Understated yet well-defined, Farmer Falgu’s heart of gold and sweet temper always come shining through, throughout the series. The onomatopoeic sounds, Chalang, Chalang for his dip in the river, Clang-Clang for procession of Sadhus, DHADAM! for a fall, prove to be powerful enhancements to Soundar and Naik’s warm and vivid pallet.

Soundar and Naik’s captivating chronicles and vivacious portrayals transport the reader to intended destinations rather seamlessly. The ultimate message that kindness and patience find their own rewards is subtle yet substantial. Concluding with descriptions about the said festivals, be it Kites or the Kumbh Mela, adds value to the reader. I do however believe that these descriptions would have enhanced the reading experience if they had been incorporated into the plot.

NRI Pulse

The book follows a clear structure and has repetitive phrases that will appeal to young readers, making it a perfect introduction to this lesser known festival. The illustrations are full of vibrant colours and bold designs and I love the simple way the illustrator shows facial expression and character.

Right From The Start

The vibrant illustrations, full of colour and life, offer the reader a glimpse of the everyday life of those who live in India. The simple plots offer lots of opportunities for joining in and for adding musical accompaniments whilst showing us the best qualities of this gentle man... [I] really look forward to seeing where Farmer Falgu’s adventures will take him next!

North Somerset Teachers' Book Award

An enchanting story about a lesser known Indian celebration- Kumbh Mela. Children will love the fun sounds and the series of unfortunate events that happen to Farmer Falgu. However, kids will learn the value in helping others and maintaining a positive attitude with this book.

Vinh Tran

I love that the good hearted farmer once again shows that kindness is its own reward. The simple story is complemented by vivid, warm, deeply colored illustrations. Text appears in different colors and sizes, emphasizing the onomatopoeia and sensory experiences of Farmer Falgu. I appreciate the note at the end which explains the significance of Kumbh Mela and explains the Hindi words in the text.

Youth Services Book Review

In Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela, Falgu sets on a journey to visit the Kumbh Mela festival in Allahabad with advice from friends and family to witness the sadhu procession, the elephant parade, and to take a dip in the holy river. Falgu, excited to explore all aspects of the Mela finds himself missing out on the very highlights he was there for, while trying to help out people in need. Farmer Falgu is however rewarded for all his good deeds by a series of chance happenings and is able to experience all the moments of the Mela he craved for, concluding his trip with meeting a friend who shares sumptuous Jalebis and Lassi.


Understated yet well-defined, Farmer Falgu’s heart of gold and sweet temper always come shining through, throughout the series. The onomatopoeic sounds, Chalang, Chalang for his dip in the river, Clang-Clang for procession of Sadhus, DHADAM! for a fall, prove to be powerful enhancements to Soundar and Naik’s warm and vivid pallet.

Soundar and Naik’s captivating chronicles and vivacious portrayals transport the reader to intended destinations rather seamlessly. The ultimate message that kindness and patience find their own rewards is subtle yet substantial. Concluding with descriptions about the said festivals, be it Kites or the Kumbh Mela, adds value to the reader. I do however believe that these descriptions would have enhanced the reading experience if they had been incorporated into the plot.

From the Publisher

02/01/2019

K-Gr 2—Farmer Falgu decides to leave his field and attend the Festival of the Pot, or "Kumbh Mela" in Hindi. His wife reminds him to try the "jalebis and sweet lassi." The temple priest suggests he take in the "procession of sadhus" or holy men and the ticket checker recommends he sees the elephants. However, once he arrives in Allahabad, Falgu is waylaid by a needy old woman, a lost little girl, and a man on crutches. Classic storytelling elements, like onomatopoeic language, repetition and a catchy refrain (maybe next time!) are as satisfying as the mango lassi that Farmer Falgu finally gets to drink. This Good Samaritan is drawn with thick outlines and Klassenesque eyes. Vibrant pops of color stand out against rich earth tones. Readers will enjoy the saris, marigolds, and prayer beads. Nair simply, yet carefully depicts each pilgrim. The only thing missing are some real photos of the event in the author's note. VERDICT An excellent addition for larger collections lacking information about this festival, which UNESCO calls an "intangible cultural heritage of humanity."—Kristy Kilfoyle, Canterbury School, Fort Myers, FL

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