India, Oct. 31 -- Festivals and rituals are known to foster social cohesion across diverse social and cultural niches. Humans are hypersocial species and gatherings during festivals are experienced as positive and contribute to feelings of social bonding.

In November 1937, Gopinath Talwalkar, editor, author, and translator, organised "Anand Balsammelan" in Pune. The event was a two-day gathering of children, aged eight and above, and was held at a wedding hall in the city during the Diwali vacation. "Anand", the famous children's magazine, was edited by Talwalkar and the "Balsammelan" was a convention of its young readers. Teachers from various schools were invited to entertain children with songs, stories, and skits. Authors who had con...