PlanetRead

Working at PlanetRead has been a rewarding experience. The work culture here is great, encouraging a collaborative and supportive environment where everyone's ideas are valued. The people are always willing to lend a hand and share their expertise, making it a pleasure to work with them.

One of the most remarkable aspects of our work is the innovative use of a tool as simple as - Same Language Subtitling (SLS). It's amazing how something so straightforward can have such a profound impact. By harnessing this tool, we are making a significant difference in marginalized communities, improving literacy & accessibility rates, and opening up new opportunities for many individuals.

The combination of a great work culture and meaningful work makes it an exceptional organisation to be associated with.

PlanetRead is a win for literacy! Their Same Language Subtitling (SLS) method makes learning to read not only engaging and effective for children, but also empowers adults. Beyond literacy, PlanetRead promotes media accessibility for everyone through SLS. I'm honored to be involved with such a remarkable organization and contribute to this impactful cause.

I appreciate how PlanetRead seamlessly integrates literacy promotion into our everyday media consumption habits. Their efforts not only foster a love for reading but also promote cultural diversity and understanding on a global scale. It's heartening to see an organization dedicated to making reading both interesting and affordable in native languages and beyond.

the subtitle in same language is helpful for children. Special in the rural area. The children who learn how read for that children the same language subtitles is most needed thing. same language subtitles develops children's reading skill and habit.

The concept of Same Language Subtitles is simple and straightforward yet holds immense potential for nationwide and global scalability. By targeting widely watched content, they are working to ensure that their interventions can reach millions of viewers, including those in remote and under-served areas.

Their work on fostering partnerships with broadcasters, educational institutions, government bodies and technological innovators aims at ensuring that their programs are well-supported and integrated into larger educational and institutional frameworks.

The team at PlanetRead is composed of passionate and dedicated individuals who are deeply invested in the organization’s mission. I am privileged to be working with PlanetRead as a Creative Designer. Working here is immensely rewarding thanks to the combination of a visionary mission, their strategic, systemic approach and a supportive, innovative work environment. For anyone looking to contribute to a worthy cause, PlanetRead is the right place for you.

PlanetRead is working really hard. This organisation gives children more values in addition to improving literacy. It was a pleasure working with PlanetRead, who are doing a fantastic job promoting literacy with help SLS.

Volunteering at PlanetRead has been inspiring. Their innovative use of Same Language Subtitling (SLS) on entertainment platforms is changing lives by promoting literacy worldwide. It's rewarding to contribute to their mission of making reading accessible and enjoyable in diverse languages, impacting millions globally. Truly a pioneering organization!

PlanetRead's pioneering work integrating Same Language Subtitling (SLS) and transliteration subtitles into entertainment platforms is transformative, promoting literacy in areas with limited educational access. This creative strategy smoothly combines learning and leisure, demonstrating the organization's deep dedication to global literacy and education. Their impact is far-reaching, and they deserve great acclaim for accelerating constructive social change through easily accessible, engaging learning environments. Highly recommended for their profound contributions to global education.

I just had the pleasure of volunteering for the PlanetRead Organization. Their commitment to making a genuine difference in the community is absolutely inspirational. The team is extremely dedicated and supportive, ensuring that every volunteer's experience is worthwhile. They execute well-organized programs that target important needs, resulting in a tangible difference. I strongly encourage that anyone looking to contribute to a worthwhile cause support and become involved with the PlanetRead Organization.

Planet Read is making a significant difference in breaking down language barriers and empowering people to learn new languages. Their innovative approach is fostering a love for language learning. If you are ever curious about learning a new language while enjoying your favorite TV shows, PlanetRead's Same Language Subtitling might be the answer you've been looking for!

SLS videos is very useful for me, because when I was learning English language I watched the SLS videos. My reading level is increase. So I am always prefer to SLS videos for studying.

The work culture at PlanetRead is excellent!
I look forward to seeing the many possibilities of how Same Language Subtitling (SLS) can be used and what its effects would be. SLS is such a simple yet powerful idea.

PlanetRead has been doing fantastic work in the SLS field for years. Their impact is well known in the communities they serve!

PlanetRead is an organisation with a great culture, values and a growth mindset. The team comprises of a passionate and committed members working towards a common goal of literacy for a billion! The idea of Same language subtitles is a simple idea with a potential to scale at a national level! Using mainstream entertainment to promote reading literacy makes reading automatic, fun and engaging!

I have recently joined the PlanetRead team, though I have been tracking their work for some years now. The policy and systemic change interventions they propose to improve literacy India are elegantly designed and simple to implement; and their solutions are usually classic examples of the curb cut effect - a program or policy designed to benefit vulnerable groups, that end up benefiting all of society.

The people that work at PlanetRead are dedicated, warm and champions for change, and it has been a pleasure to get to know them and the excellent work that PlanetRead does for society. I am very excited to be a part of the PlanetRead story!

I have closely been able to observe the work at PlanetRead through the lens of the work one of my close friends puts in while working at this organisation and I can honestly vouch for the effort put in to come up (on-field and otherwise) with a evidence-based tool to accelerate language learning among children and adults.

As someone who has closely followed PlanetRead's work, their work, especially, in SLS and using entertainment to do so, is inspiring. Their stories have helped me, as a parent, to introduce a more effective and yet entertaining tool for language learning for my kids. The simplicity in usage adds to the overall effectiveness of these products.

PlanetRead is doing excellent and groundbreaking work at the intersection of policymaking and literacy with through their science-backed methodology of targeting semi literate individuals. their work especially with regards to same language subtitling is very helpful in accessing a wide audience effectively.

PlanetRead has the vision of a planet where everyone can read and have access to affordable reading opportunities.
PlanetRead uses Same Language Subtitling [SLS] to achieve this vision.SLS is a proven method based on research and evidence. Their Vision is highly scalable and cost effective idea to reach millions of people.Animated Books [AniBooks] sponsored by PlanetRead are popular among kids learning a language.

PlanetRead uses Same Language Subtitling [SLS] to achieve the vision of a planet where everyone can read and have access to affordable reading opportunities. Highly scalable and cost effective idea to reach millions of people.
Animated Books [AniBooks] sponsored by PlanetRead are popular among kids learning a language.

Making use of entertainment to educate people through same language subtitles is an amazing idea.This is in the addition to having massive national impact in two other domains,that of media access among Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) people and of language learning.

It is amazing how a small step like adding Same Language Subtitles to a video can create a boost in spreading literacy.
My 6 year old daughter enjoys watching the stories with Same Language Subtitling and we see a significant improvement in her reading skills.
Best wishes to the team! Keep up the Good work.

Planet Read is doing a spectacular and innovative work in helping people to improve their reading skills or to learn a new language. Same language subtitling it's an effective tool which helps many people across the country. Great initiative step to eradicate illiteracy. My best wishes to the team.

PlanetRead is using Same Language Subtitling to bring and improve literacy among the masses. Works on any screen and is a pleasure to watch the children and adults reading along while watching a program/video. Plus this is a highly cost effective solution.
Kudos to the team.

PlanetRead is doing a fantastic job. The organization not only improves literacy, it also adds value to their lives. Their stories teaches kids on how to be kind, considerate, self-care, etc.

In today’s world where the kids are exposed to smartphones, TV and tablets so much, Planet Read is doing a fabulous job in promoting reading and literacy to help children to improve their reading skills or to learn a new language. A very brilliant and efficient way to learn a language.

PlanetRead is doing pathbreaking work to promote literacy among the masses. Their innovative idea of using same-language subtitles to promote reading practice has immense scale and potential to prove transformational in changing the literacy landscape of the world at large. Their team is composed to exceptionally passionate individuals who are focused in their vision and mission.

PlanetRead is doing exemplary work in promoting reading and literacy amongst children and women. A very simple concept but a great support to people who want to improve their reading level or learn a new language. I am very impressed on knowing how a simple SLS technique helps a large group of people who are willing to improve their reading skills or learn a new language. Their contributions in the field of SLS through amazing animated stories for the kids is big success. It gives me a great pleasure knowing I am a part of it.

I worked with PlanetRead for around a year to build a digital platform for managing their story translations. It was an honoring experience working with such an amazing non-profit and seeing the impact that they make (and the great people behind the organization too!).

I am working with PlanetRead currently and it amazes me to understand how such a small action or a step like adopting of Same Language Subtitling has created a massive boost in spreading literacy. I have learnt that many so called literates are weak readers and with SLS technique they have become functional to fluent readers. I feel proud to be a part of this organization. I am very impressed how BookBox, their largest partner, has been able to find a common ground to make significant contributions in the field of SLS through amazing animated stories for the kids. Hope to see more success and beautiful collaboration for these two organizations in the future.

Planet read and BookBox are doing exemplary work in promoting reading and literacy amongst children. Using SLS, BookBox's Anibooks are very engaging and thoughtfully created to meet the requirements of all levels of readers. Keep up the good work!!

PlanetRead is doing a phenomenal job of bringing awareness to the fantastic concept of ‘Same Language Subtitling’. (SLS) They have proved the value of it with solid facts.
It has been a pleasure to volunteer for such a passionate group.

I've been working with PlanetRead for the past 8 months to help build them a digital solution to streamline their internal processes. It's been great working so closely with this awesome team and seeing the scale of the work that they do!

PlanetRead has been involved in the literacy space for more than 2 decades.
They are doing systematic work to increase literacy in India and eventually all over the planet. I’m proud to support this wonderful organisation.

Same Language subtitling is a simple and a highly effective method to increase reading abilities of people. It is nice to see PlanetRead doing a significant push on this front.
I wish them success on their path to billion readers

PlanetRead's concept of Same Language Subtitles helps children/ adults read with the help of visuals. A very simple concept but a great support to people who want to improve their reading level or learn a new language.
The quality of the language and the videos are excellent and I have recently introduced their videos to my granddaughter who loves them. Excellent work team PlanetRead!

It has been wonderful working alongside such a passionate team and watching PlanetRead's projects come to life. Keep up the great work!

I am a teacher and I find the concept behind Book Box and Planet Read truly amazing. Since the day I discovered it, my daughter has been enjoying reading in different languages. This unique concept of linking visuals to subtitles really helps children grasp the language, learn new vocabulary, improve their reading and listening comprehension skills and enjoy the stories at the same time. These stories are also very original and totally different from anything I have used before. We are planning to introduce Book Box to our younger students at my school to improve their literacy skills.

I have been enjoying Bookbox for some time as a beautifully designed resource to improve my French via charmingly told and illustrated folktales .

I have also now learned about the PlanetRead project and am amazed I.d never heard of it before. To raise literacy levels across India with such a simple, joyful and effective method ( subtitling Bollywood movies), is a stroke of genius.
Literacy for all is one of the foundations of a modern democratic society and this is a truly inspiring project.

This is my favorite non-profit organization. Donations are used in the most transparent and effective ways. Donation focus has been teacher training and education. The money and services go to make a big difference in the lives of children. The organization is like a family and I want to support this family and hope many others will too.

Team at Planet Read is doing an awesome job in providing reading/early learning opportunities in underprivileged section of the society. Kiddoware is fortunate to support them in their efforts and wishes PlanteRead success in their mission.
Thanks

I have commissioned PlanetRead for some work and had the pleasure of working with them. I found the team very competent and sending regular weekly updates on the project. The quality of their stories with subtitles is very good and it has shown to improve learning outcomes in other studies. I look forward to integrating their work into our personalised adaptive learning software - Mindspark.

As a translator and reviewer ,I have been associated with Planet Read for quite sometime now. Working with the team which is proactive, open to suggestions, thoroughly professional and very polite in its approach, has been a pleasure.Looking forward to work.more with them

PlanetRead is doing fantastic work. This organization not only improves literacy but also adds values in the life of kids. Their stories support teachers and parents in inculcating the values such as Selfcare, Kindness, etc,

PlanetRead is doing very good job. It is an organisation which is constantly trying to increase the literacy rate so that children/people of our country can read and write. There are thousands of direct beneficiaries who got reading practices with the help of animated stories from this organisation. Videos for children are really great and demonstrate the good quality of their work. It is truly changing the lives and bringing them on good path. Best wishes.

PlanetRead is doing excellent job for the development of literacy and I had good experience working with them. The work they are doing is commendable and is surely making a difference in the life of semi-literates.

Planet Read's great to learn languages. The story are simple and fun to listen (and read) to. They are particularly attractive to little children in the age group of 3-9 who are just learning to read.

Planet Read is doing a wonderful Job on spreading the joy of learning Languages among various people in the country. Their stories are really simple to understand and very enticing for whoever wants to learn a new Language. Good Job team and do keep up the work of spreading the Language Learning initiative for all.
Nestor Mascarenhas

“The one who teaches the written word is God incarnate” – is a Tamil saying.

Bringing the joy of reading to millions is an ambitious idea. If it is ably supported by strong belief in achieving the target in a viable, simple and enjoyable manner then sky is the limit. PlanetRead with its innovative SLS - Same Language Subtitling, employing karaoke methods capture the essence of their philosophy to make reading easy for people. At a time when pedagogical methods have come under serious scrutiny due to falling standards in the reading and comprehending abilities of children, PlanetRead’s AniBooks that use animated stories with SLS are simply a boon. As a board member, I am proud to be associated with an NGO that continues to make a real difference in the lives of millions of Indians, young and old alike. Kudos to the team at PlanetRead. Your work is invaluable.

Planet Read Makes a good participation in many profiles. Non Profit objective is appreciated that too in multi language developments. I am aware of their participation for many years. Children stories and stories about iconic leaders and legends and also SLS are their few areas which I am aware. I wish that it should grow in many folds and set as an example

(English translation below)
Trabajar con ellos ha sido extraordinario. Siempre profesionales y amables, me envían la información y me apoyan con cualquier duda que tenga.
El español es uno de los idiomas más hablados del mundo, en tantos países, y es un privilegio poder motivar a los niños a leer y escucharlo, además de poder promoverlo con adultos que quizás también estén interesados en aprender el idioma.
¡Qué maravilla poder crear material didáctico gratuito internacionalmente para que los niños puedan leer multiples idiomas! Gracias Bookbox

English
Working with them has always been extraordinary. Always professional and kind, they send me the information and help me with any questions I might have.
Spanish is one of the most spoken languages in the world, and in many countries, and its a privilege to motivate children to read and listen to it, as well as be able to promote it with adults that might be interested in learning the language.
How wonderful is it to be able to create international free didactic material so that children can learn to read in multiple languages! Thank you Bookbox.

They have a professional team, videos for children are really great and demostrate the good quality of their work

We've been working with PlanetRead's Pondicherry office now for more than 15 years. They're a dedicated team, a pleasure to work with, and they produce wonderful learning content for children!
Michael, Avitra - Auroville international translators

It was indeed great working with PlanetRead. A simple idea of subtitles yet in an innovative way, Same Language Subtitling is helping many by improving their reading skills and by further moving us towards a better India.

I have been following the work done at PlanetRead for over 10 years now, and yet it feels just like yesterday that they started the ground-breaking work which they do. The progress and the repository of material that they have created in these years is a benchmark that each educational organization should strive for.
I cannot think of a better way to bring technology and learning to the masses at a low cost- what an idea and what professional and dedicated service from the entire team- kudos.
The philosophy runs top down into each member of the staff, and I wish the team many more years and projects to continue the wonderful work.
We, an NGO based out of Pondicherry, have also used Bookbox and PlanetRead material for our street and slum children and the results were incredibly encouraging-not only do the children enjoy a reading session- learning happens on the side of fun through fun!
I would recommend their content for individuals, families as well as larger organisations- the entire process from email to implementation of the stories in our centres was effortless.
Good going team Planetread!

I'm really happy to see a professional team that empowers the literacy and education of thousands of Indian children.

The team is doing a great job. Their content is relevant and contextual for the children in our country. We have received positive feedback from the schools and teachers we are working with. Keep up the good work!

Working with Planetread has been a profound and great knowledge sharing experience. We at Design Therapy Now, designed their website and it was a thoughtful and purposeful exercise to offer a variety of stories in multiple languages across the world. The team was high on motivation to deliver an exceptional experience to their readers and I appreciate their patience and openness to learn in terms of design and experiences. Looking forward to your stories!

Planetread is just doing an amazing job. Excellent!!!!

My cooperation with Bookbox team and PlanetRead started this year and they have been working on the language, that has no Roman Alphabet. This is Georgian Language, represented with an animated story ,,The First Christmas".
The team consists of proffesionals attentive to details.
I hope we'll work side by side as long as this project lasts.

It's always a great joy working for bookbox. So refreshing and heartening to know that you help our children better read and care for the earth. These stories are rooted in the present and give hope for the future!
Continue and spread the good work. I look forward to voice again my deep appreciation....
Cristof Award Pitoeff

Have been working with PlanetRead for a year now. They work tirelessly towards making the 'Reading' easy. Commendable work, keep it up team!!

I've been engaged as a volunteer with PlanetRead for almost 5 years, and have thoroughly enjoyed my association and interactions with their several team members during this time. Furthermore, through co-managing probono consulting projects with PlanetRead, I know that other student and professional volunteers from universities and corporations in the US and India have equally appreciated PlanetRead's work.

I am proud to be connected with PlanetRead, and will continue to be an advocate of the great work they are doing in progressing the field of education!

I have been a volunteer with PlanetRead since 2013- initially based in India and now as a remote volunteer. PlanetRead is among the most professional nonprofits I have worked with, and has an incredibly dedicated staff which shows through in all of their work. Their concept leverages an innovative idea that is evidence-backed, and the organization is a role model for how to turn a creative idea into action. I look forward to continuing to serve as a volunteer with PlanetRead and to supporting their important work.

Want to improve your language skills? PlanetRead would be the name which I'll immediately suggest to anyone. This organization helps in developing an individual's reading skills with the concept of 'Same Language Subtitling'. These people are rendering a wonderful service which is essential & much needed for a society to improve its literacy rate. My best wishes & support will always be there for this team. Keep growing PlanetRead! And lit your global light for literacy.

Planetread is doing wonderful work that really helps thousands of thousand children to access literacy and education in India and the world. The team is very professional and hard working. Wish them all the very best! Keep the momentum going on!

I worked for Planet Read during 6 month. All the team is involved and so welcoming. It was a pleasure to participate to this project.

Fascinated by the power of transformation and passion that moves this non-profit.

PlanetRead's work using same-language subtitles for literacy has progressed immensely to encompass not just SLS for film songs on television but also SLS for animated books in an early-grade reading initiative. This unique idea has made a huge difference for people of all ages struggling to become proficient readers in a world that demands literacy.

We have an extremely cordial and pleasant working relationship with PlanetRead. The team is helpful, professional, passionate and hard working. It is encouraging to see the concept of SLS being implemented in government schools of Delhi. We are hopeful that this will prove to be very beneficial for the children and help in improving their reading outcomes. I would like to wish the team all the very best for all their future endeavors.

PlanetRead has been working tirelessly for years to share the evidence that same-language subtitling really makes an impact on reading ability and to raise awareness of the need to add SLS to all media content in all languages. More and more people know about their work, and I hope that the word continues to spread. Thanks for your simple, scalable literacy efforts, PlanetRead!

Had a great time working with Planetread! They are doing wonderful work to help spread literacy across India and the world. Very proud of the progress they are making.

An incredible organization that has made so much impact on so many people. PlanetRead's simple idea of Same Language Subtitles has greatly improved India and has the potential to improve the rest of the world. Keep up the great work, PlanetRead!

Writing a scientific paper about illiteracy in India, I found an article about PlanetRead. PlanetRead became an important part of that paper as it is simple and very effective.
I glad to have got to know such an great work! You all do a great job! Thank you!

PlaneTRead is doing fantastic work to improve access to literacy and education among otherwise underserved populations. Very excited to see its progress from here out as well!

This organization is doing a wonderful job that really helps hundreds of thousand people/children. I'm privileged to be a part of this amazing team. My job is to create music/sounds for children stories which is an interesting one and truly satisfying.

Having been with this team for past 2 years, i have seen them growing, improving lives of so many children and their interest in making full literacy. I've had immense joy working with them and will continue to work with them. My Best Wishes.

With steady exposure to these songs with karaoke style subtitles, a person can improve their reading skills. Kudos to PlanetRead for showing us a simple and an effective way to improve literacy.

Around the globe, people and companies work with different processes to improve the literacy of millions of people. PlanetRead is one such company, named after its goal.
The unique thing about PlanetRead is that it takes a very simple idea and with that it is able to provide improvement of literacy across millions of people in India.This is achieved through subtitling popular film songs loved by people. Superb...

PlanetRead is an organization that is truly changing lives through their passion for literacy and innovative methods of product distribution. I had the privilege of interning for PlanetRead over the summer of 2016. My job included researching the effectiveness of eye tracking and helping expand the reach of PlanetRead's children's stories.

Working with PlanetRead I was afforded the pure joy of watching children's faces while practicing their reading skills, and simultaneously, of seeing the pride on the faces of their illiterate parents, knowing their children were being given access to a brighter future. The hard work that this organization does not only helps improve the literacy of its current recipients, but it also helps carve the path for a future toward full literacy and increased well-being of an ever growing nation . PlanetRead is an organization that is actively reshaping lives, what a treat to have been part of that effort.

Activity based learning keeps children engaged in class and learning is joyful. Given the short attention span of the children stories and especially animated stories can keep children engaged. The subtitles in the same language help children read with the help of visuals. This serves as a great support to the teaching / learning process. The quality of the content and the age specific story selection will go a long way in developing literacy skills in areas where there are dearth of quality resources.

Each and every member of Planetread has my highest admiration and pride for the commitment they show in bringing wholesome meaning to literacy in India. The seemingly simplistic solution applying Same Language Subtitling will never lose its significance in people empowerment through literacy.

My experience with Planetread is merely as an onlooker who understands the enormity of their work. My many years in defense took me far and wide across India and gave me the opportunity to experience first hand the low literacy levels of far too many communities of a nation that prides itself of world leading achievements. With SLS proving a success in enriching the lives of children and adults, improving their reading skills through popular media, it is indeed heart-warming to know and applaud.

I wish Planetread finds success in attaining even wider recognition and all the support it seeks to attain its noble goals.

This Organization goes out of its way to promote languages. Always noted for its accuracy and thoroughness.

PlanetRead’s “karaoke” approach to literacy provides automatic and subconscious reading practice. Subtitling famous Bollywood songs is a classic idea to promote literacy among the masses. Good work! Keep going your dedication and service is greatly appreciated.

Same Language Subtitling is a simple yet effect way of helping a semi-literate to improve their language skills unknowingly. PlanetRead has used this concept to subtitle famous Bollywood songs. What better way to learn and read the fun way! Hats off to the volunteers and staff of PlanetRead.

PlanetRead is a very good organisation that helps to increase literacy rate among children, their technique of using subtitling into education is a very innovative and unique way of learning. The organisation is friendly, having a good time working with them.

PlanetRead is an innovative way to improve one's language. With the help of SLS and daily practice we can achieve global literacy.

A simple solution to a alleviate illiteracy around us. PlanetRead has made reading Karaoke like. You watch, you listen, you read along!

Edutainment is Bollywood songs providing literacy and reading. PlanetRead has struck the right chord with the masses.

Planetread is truly an innovative way of teaching literacy. Combining entertainment with valuable skills is a great way to try to change the world for the better. Bravo!

I started following planetread due to voluntary work being done by a friend and I realised that same language subtitling has a significant role to play in enabling native language speakers to read better and thereby understand better. Movies/music is the best way to get people's attention and SLS helps!

What a great idea, and all the research says it works! And who would say no to watching a fun Hindi movie?

PlanetRead's deceptively simple approach is flexible enough to expand literacy in many different contexts (adults and children, speakers of India's local languages as well as Hindi speakers). The work they're doing now takes the concept of same-language subtitling to new audiences as well as to their traditional viewership on televised song programs. With PlanetRead's continuing innovation and dedication, and with financial support from donations and grants, I hope the dream of a fully literate India will come true in my lifetime. I'm happy to do my part!

BookBox is an absolutely fab tool for lg teachers. The stories are so smart with their universal punchlines that I'm using them as a warm-up story for business-related topics. My students love the idea and find it a fun add-on to a regular class.

The simple way to reach a large public is through the forum of entertainment. Planet Read has done this admirably well by basing themselves on popular songs from Bollywood to reach its target audience. The SLS or the Same Language Subtitling is a simple but effective method of educating a semi-literate mass that lends itself to learning to read unknowingly. Congratulations Planet Read for developing such a wonderful program to take the world forward.

I absolutely love PlanetRead, I have even shared the program with all of my friends and BookBox's stories to many homeschoolers, plus, I myself use the program. Same Language Subtitles are a huge benefit when learning a language. As an American living in Tamil Nadu, India I have used the BookBox program to expand my knowledge of Tamil. The stories are interesting and visually appealing-a must!

PlanetRead's SLS innovation for spreading literacy is simple, intuitive and fun. It should be scaled up nationally and internationally and it will help millions become literate. Keep it up!

I personally feel the work and the concept Planetread doing is totally a big turn for people to read and develop the literacy. Giving a proper idea to educate makes the change. Planetread gives the change to develop reading ability by providing an excellent concept SLS (Same Language Subtitling). Concept like this really makes the Planet Read.

PlanetRead is an incredible way to improve reading skills. It combines India's favorite entertainment industry, Bollywood, with same language subtitles to create a fun and easy way to learn to read. What could be better?

Planetread, BookBox, is an awesome tool for learning in general and literacy in particular. I have used the stories and same-language subtitles to help adult learners improve reading as well as using the stories to help myself learn a foreign language. The method of learning is so intuitive and easy, as you learn to read, listen, spell, and, if you choose, learn a foreign language also, and all with meaningful, interesting stories.. I highly recommend Planetread and BookBox.

Same Language Subtitles are simple, yet an incredible tool to learn to read a language. SLS are easy to read and produce; it should be implemented everywhere! PlanetRead and BookBox apply SLS in the right places, too - Bollywood and children's stories - both highly popular now and will be deep in the future. No doubt SLS can prevent illiteracy around the world.

PlanetRead are an innovative organisation that are creating a new generation of literate people across India. Few organisations on the planet have created a solution that is so simple that it really could change the world. PlanetRead are a truly inspiring organisation, full of great people, and with your help, they could change the lives of readers all over the world.

Good work by good people, spreading literacy in an innovative, inventive way.
Keep up the good work!
Michael Koot (Avitra, language services provider)

What amazes me about the SLS concept is the fun way in which it spreads literacy in a subliminal yet powerful way. We Indians love our movie songs and what better way than to teach language through a medium no one can resist? Pure genius.

I salute the selfless volunteers and staff of Planet Read, keep up the good work.

I think it's really amazing what PlanetRead is doing ! Being certified literate is useless when a person is unable to read or write everyday stuff. SLS is indeed a very innovative technology that entertains and educates people at the same time. And it's effective because a good part of the Indian population thrives on Bollywood. I really wish to be a volunteer for this incredible mission sometime soon.
By building more efficient human beings, we are directly creating a better tomorrow !
Hats off to you !

I am a BookBox volunteer for my language, Telugu. I am inspired to volunteer for it for 2 reasons: Quality and Service. BookBox stories are of great quality. Their attention to details that contribute to its quality and the persistence and patience with which they achieve it, impresses me and inspires me. The motive of service by making literacy not just kid friendly but people friendly in general, through planet read is is what makes it dear to me.

Hey guys!! It is a nice platform for learning multiple languages.
When I came to Bangalore I understood Kannada & Hindi is must to survive here apart from English. Hence My roommates and I decided to learn new languages. some wants to learn tamil too.. Received suggestions from many to watch movies and songs, as this is the way to learn languages easier. Finally we ended up with PlanetRead. Their new way subtitle helped a lot. Days passing and we started humming and slowly singing whatever we get. We hope moving forward we will be speaking different languages and could able to understand the languages as PlanetRead made them easy, fun while learning languages. Thats just the way we learn. Whole INDIA is learning along with you guys. Cheers!! Just Enjoy madi!!! Masti karo!!! ;) Learning never exhausts the mind. ~Da Vinci

As a volunteer for this exemplary work of promoting the gift and power of literacy to millions of people all over the world, I have truly been gratified to lend my voice and any other literary skill asked for to this brilliantly simple but efficient technique. I have a feeling of touching the lives of children when I narrate their stories and it is most enthusing!

As a volunteer translator I feel very happy to offer my collaboration for this non profit organization.

In my view, to help the children learning reading and writing is to give them the tools for self knowledge and lifelong education.

I've worked with PlanetRead as a volunteer for almost over a year now. All the team members, with utmost professionalism, have proactively guided different projects that I've been involved in. I'm sure to continue volunteering with PlanetRead in varying capacities moving forward, and remain associated with the great work that they've been doing in the field of education!

This is a very cost effective program and can be used in India and all over the world for literacy development. The simplicity of using film songs that are watched by millions of people every day ... is a great way to help people improve their reading skills.

Since many years I have been working for BookBox, which is an off-shoot of PlanetRead. I have been helping them translate and record some stories into French. I am happy to do it free of cost but not free of joy! This project helps people feel part of the greater picture of reading and literacy development around the world. The stories are interesting, sensitive, instructive and fun. The illustrations are charming, and give a boost to the joy of learning.
I wish all the PlanetRead team the most wonderful future, and thank them for the great work they are doing. Cristof Alward. Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry.

I have worked with PlanetRead for a year in a volunteer capacity. I've gotten to learn a lot about the organization and some of its key team members, and have always been extremely impressed by their passion and professionalism- which combined set the stage for much success. I will continue working with this organization as I know they are focused on a great cause and achieving great results, and would encourage others to do the same!

I have been associated with Planet Read for nearly 3 years. They are good professionals and show good attitude in approaching the issues. Their work in the education field is exemplary.

What will make this world a better place to live in?
Education.

How?
Right education brings in knowledge, awareness, confidence, better exposure and reasoning power, and much more to an individual, which in turn reflects on the society by bringing in sustainability; diminishing social, communal, and gender bias; raising living standards; boosting cleanliness, health, and hygiene; and contributing to its overall progress.

In India, there are millions of adults belonging to the lower strata of society, who can’t even read—or, maybe, can barely do that thanks to National Literacy Mission’s effort. They need to be made literate first. How can anybody make about 300 million+ people literate and more importantly give them regular reading practice that they stay literate?
India has the largest film industry in the world, Bollywood. The richest to the poorest in India likes Bollywood songs (avg. 5 songs/film). TV channels broadcast film songs. Almost all have access to TV sets. Put subtitles in the same language as the song and people will read, subconsciously, that they can learn the lyrics and enjoy the song better. Product: Entertainment, a new song learnt. Byproduct: Literacy! Does that sound like a viable solution?

Of course it does! Awesomely simple and extremely frugal and effective! Well, the only better alternative I can think might be a device that can manipulate people’s brains and mass transmit knowledge directly into them; a variant of the one they use in the film, MIB…one that instills rather than erases knowledge perhaps!

But, who’s behind this idea of subtitling?
PlanetRead; they have been doing it for years now. That’s why I support them.

I rest my case.

What better way to practice reading skills than singing along with your favourite song with lyrics that appear and get highlighted in perfect sync with the songs? PlanetRead's simple idea of Same Language Subtitling which started with television, is now poised to grow manifold with the rising popularity of internet-enabled smartphones. This idea will spread across all countries and promote literacy in a fun way on a shoestring budget and is truly worthy of being supported.

I have been watching the Rangoli program on India's national television channel for several years now and the entire experience of watching the show is enhanced by the same language subtitles that change colour exactly in sync with the audio. This initiative by PlanetRead and the entire concept of SLS is among the most innovative and simple ways of using mass media to bring about meaningful social change by educating the early Indian literates by providing them reading practice. In terms of per capita investment, it seems like one of the cheapest ways of promoting literacy and is an idea that should be implemented in many more countries.

Planetread is a very simple concept which can touch and change the lives of many, on a large scale, for the better.

As it is simple , it can be implemented easily for a large mass of people.

Many more nations should take this concept and implement it for their population.

PlanetRead is a Nonprofit organisation with a unique process for a great project and aim. Their motto says it all - "Literacy for a Billion". The idea of SLS (Same Language Subtitling) to educate is so SIMPLE, and so unique. Songs are popular worldwide - be they movie songs, Music videos, Anthems, Childhood rhymes, Poems, etc and the fact that they are now being used to 'literate' large numbers of illiterate populace is indeed highly commendable. Their numerous recognitions are ample proof of the greatness of this simple idea, and Team PlanetRead deserves a pat on their back for this initiative.

Ideas that are simple and innovative can create a great impact - PlanetRead has proved just that. With the simple idea of subtitling Bollywood songs telecast on national TV, Brij Kothari and his Team are paving way for the weak readers to become functional readers. I am sure this will have a direct impact in the literacy levels of our country, very soon.

I think Planetread's work excels both in content and quality. Their daughter organization BookBox has great potential in e Learning. Their stories are excellent and the quality devoted to the work is of a very high standard. I know some people who have actually been inspired to learn a new language watching BookBox stories. BookBox's potential is immense in this new era of online learning.

PlanetRead is really making the Planet read. The organization is striving hard to make its name come true by the innovative and fun-filled idea of Same Language Subtitling (SLS) to popular bollywood songs which will reach the people's minds rapidly faster all over the world and unknowingly making them to read the newspaper of their language. This idea of SLS to make people read which in spite increases the rate of literacy is something very new and different concept. It is really working out and all sorts of people like early literates, alliterates, illiterates finding it beneficial throughout the country.

The most amazing thing attracted me a lot in this concept is that it paves a way for the people to read and learn other languages too by providing along with the translation and transliteration of the particular language instead of restricting them only to their own language which is very helpful and a fantastic thought.

I am very proud and thankful to Brij Kothari, the founder of PlanetRead, and the team for giving us this awesome concept for a social cause!

An unbelievable concept, a small tool, and a few, very few good peoples can make this entire planet different, where everybody can read.
Truly speaking, when i joined this Organization, I was not very sure that this concept can work. But within a year when I see a girl who never gone to school nor read a book is reading a news paper my concept got changed.
Best of luck PlanetRead

I came to know about the initiatives being taken by Book Box, which is part of PlanetRead, and was stunned completely. Today, most of us think that just to put one's signature assures that one is a literate; however, actually literacy has nothing to do with one's signature. Increasing literacy rate in a country like India could be a daunting task, but thanks to Book Box, who are doing a great job with their well-balanced team and have made this arduous task rather easy. To even think of such an idea is truly appreciative and the team completely tries to give in their best shot by applying their thoughts into actions. Education and fun go hand-in-hand here and this is all due to PlanetRead/Book Box's efforts. I hope they succeed in making our country "the highest literates in the world" country soon. Wishing all the best for their future endeavours.

It is truly tragic that so many people around the world cannot experience so many things in life because they cannot read or write. It’s also tragic that many people who do take that for granted. The work of PlanetRead is admirable in every way possible and I wish them the best of luck in all their future projects!

As a volunteer translator and narrator for BookBox, one of PlanetRead’s many activities, I feel great satisfaction in taking part of what is a great movement to increase literacy worldwide! The BookBox team is very dedicated to their work and very flexible with their volunteers, and it is a pleasure to aide them in their mission, while enjoying what I do, because let’s face it, children stories are always fun to play around with!

If you ever have the chance to volunteer for BookBox or any other PlanetRead project, you should not only think of their hard work and noble mission, but also of all the unfortunate illiterate people who could benefit from your work, and go for it!

I have worked with Planet Read as a Translator for articles on various subjects and also educational videos for children. It has been a great learning experience. Working with the team at Planet Read has been very cordial and enriching as the team is always willing to extend their help and are also open to new suggestions. Thanks Planet Read !

As a graphics production consultant to Bookbox/Planetread and having shown the SLS video stories to many people i must say that it has been the most successful and naturally quick method to become literate. The co-founder and team are one of the best i have worked with.

Its mind boggling and a simple idea to improve literarcy around the world with cost effective strategies build in. To start with an Asia country, its better to start off. When i came to know of this service i was awe inspired. FUN with education is the basic which i will always love to be part of.

As Ashoka's Volunteer Coordinator, I've had many occasions to hear about PlanetRead's needs and successes. Many of our volunteers are attracted to their work. They are always responsive and are obviously strong contributors to eradicating illiteracy!

What amazes me about PlanetRead's innovation is the simplicity of the idea. Education through staple entertainment and that gives automatic reading practice. With about 300 million illiterates, India is still one of the fastest growing economies, imagine what we can do if the whole nation is literate. PlanetRead has an amazing team and they truly believe in what they are doing. The idea has great potential and they should find ways to scale up.

What's the difference between a man and an animal? Education of course! It's a virtue none of us can live without. And if you observe the world around us, you'll realize that the lack of (right) education is the root cause of all anarchy in the world. We know that the first step of education is literacy. And how many illiterates are there in the world today? 900 million!!! PlanetRead, I came to know, reach out to 200 MILLION early literates and make them functional literates while they enjoy their favorite film songs! How is it done? Just by subtitling those film songs! If that's not impressive, then what is? Being an Indian, I am proud that such an NGO is working in my country, to make India literate. I wish them all the success in their good work and hope that they'll be able to expand their work globally so that we have a fully literate and better world.

It is good to educate with entertainment. No one will get bored with this kind of learning. It will improve our reading skills. Great work! Keep it up! Spread it all over the world!

PlanetRead is continuing to help millions of people all over India to improve their literacy. SLS has become a proven method. Several years of research vouches for it. And now it is time for the Indian Government to notice this innovative idea and make it as a national policy so that at least one program per language has SLS in it. The idea of SLS for improving literacy should not be underestimated.

It is a great idea for education. I am happy to support it

I am very proud to rejoined in Planetread organization. It is different from other non governmental organization. Same Language Subtitling is good concept, It will improve the literacy level.

I am in the education field and I am still to find another method as simple and cost effective to propagate literacy such as the one PlanetRead uses. SLS is indeed a fun and subsconscious way to learn literacy!

Here it proves that a simple yet efficient way can make a big difference. A brilliant idea to improve the literacy rate in India. i have seen their program in DD National Hindi and trust me it's really effective.

A very simple yet efficient way to promote literacy, having fun improving reading abilities or learning a new language.

When I first hear about PlanetRead a few years ago, I was amazed by the simplicity of their work. Like many simple ideas, it's actually quite brilliant and has had an incredible impact on literacy levels around India. I remember first hearing about the organisation while I was at Stanford University, and as a fan of appropriate technology I loved the fact that it used already existing technologies (and behaviours) to enhance reading skills in an extremely clever way. The team at PlanetRead are amazingly dedicated, smart and creative, and as committed as anyone I have met to their cause.

The simplicity of the work that PlanetRead does is amazing. I been a part of the team in the past and have done research in the field of how this idea helps improve children's reading skills. I am teacher and also run a children's creche and I know for sure SLS will help people with weak reading skills.

SLS, a concept pioneered by PlanetRead is aimed at increasing the literacy levels in India. It uses the idea of subtitling lyrics of film songs on TV, in the ‘same’ language that they are sung.

PlanetRead is doing a wonderful job of spreading literacy and providing reading practice to millions of people in India through innovative use of entertainment. I was so impressed by PlanetRead's initiatives that after graduation, I joined PlanetRead instead of taking up job offers from leading MNCs. As part of the PlanetRead team, I traveled to the far flung areas in rural India and saw for myself the effectiveness and the impact PlanetRead is having. PlanetRead's simple, yet powerful methodologies can be an answer to solving some of the most pressing challenges that the world faces.

PlanetRead is championing creative and effective literacy education in India nationwide. Employing the best aspects of modern technology, entertainment and informal education, it's making important inroads into the inequality that bars Indians who are illiterate. The PlanetRead team has developed a proven method of subtitling Bollywood subtitles in the languages spoken, christened Same Language Subtitling (SLS). This simple change reinforces association between what is spoken/sung and what is on the screen, eventually leading to greater recognition of letters, words and then reading.

The first and only organization of the kind I have come across that combines fun, entertainment, literacy and outreach in a very simple innovative manner!
I had the opportunity to volunteer for an awesome event and do some fundraising for PlanetRead and it was so much fun and a great learning experience!! Everyone who work for PlanetRead believe in the cause and put in their maximum (which is a lot) to make it come to life. I hope they are able to reach many more places and educate & entertain many more people.

Working with PlanetRead in the summer of 2006 gave me excellent exposure to using technology and media for educational change.


While things in India are often disorganized, and PlanetRead could focus more on internal organization, their mission and strategy.