Lucknow: The 23rd National Book Fair concluded at Balrampur Garden, Lucknow, with book sales crossing the ₹1 crore mark, reflecting the enduring popularity of books among readers in the digital age.
The fair, which began on October 1, brought together book lovers, authors and publishers on a common platform. The final day witnessed enthusiastic participation, with thousands of visitors purchasing books and attending literary and cultural programmes.
More than 56 leading publishers and distributors from across the country participated in the event, including Prabhat, Vani, Navpallav, Flydreams, Rajpal, Rajkamal, Sasta Sahitya Mandal and Jnanpith.
At the closing ceremony, fair convenor Manoj Singh Chandel and Akarsh Chandel presented mementoes to stall owners and those who supported the event. Manoj Singh Chandel said the fair attracted a larger crowd than in previous years, with young people forming a significant proportion of visitors. He observed that the response demonstrated that interest in reading continues despite the growing influence of digital media.
Exhibitor Ashok Shukla described his experience as positive but suggested that a longer gap between book fairs would benefit publishers and organisers. Rajat Vivek, a book enthusiast from Bulandshahr who attended the fair for the second time, said such events help connect the younger generation with the culture of reading.
The final day also featured literary and cultural activities. Following a felicitation ceremony organised by Navsrijan, a short-story conference offered audiences an opportunity to enjoy brief narratives and poetry.
The Manjusha Parishad honoured Dr DS Shukla with the Sarla Shukla Memorial Award. A book authored by Dr Amita Dubey was released in the presence of Padma Shri awardee Vidyabindu Singh, Dr Kailash Devi Singh, Dr Manju Shukla and Apurva Awasthi.
Poetry sessions continued in the evening, while the second stage hosted a poetry programme organised by Aparajita. Journalists Nawed Shikoh, Rajnish Raj, Khurram Nizami, Shabahat Husain, Shilpa and Rajveer also participated in an informal discussion on culture and related issues.
The fair concluded with organisers expressing appreciation for the participation of publishers, writers and readers, while looking forward to welcoming them again next year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
