Lucknow: Emphasizing the importance of reading and literary culture, Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay said that literature forms the foundation of respect and identity for any language and society.
The minister was speaking as the chief guest at the Lucknow Book Fair, held at Ravindralaya Charbagh on Friday. During his visit, he toured several stalls set up by publishers and reviewed books on a wide range of subjects.
Upadhyay said that books represent a vast repository of accumulated knowledge and play a vital role in shaping society by providing values, ideas and direction. “When the thoughts of scholars and thinkers are compiled in books, they become invaluable sources of knowledge for future generations,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of book fairs, he noted that such events provide readers with the opportunity to explore diverse subjects in one place, helping them expand their intellectual horizons. He added that while universities and colleges impart specialized education, holistic knowledge develops through reading books.
Calling books “man’s best friend, guide and teacher,” the minister urged students to visit the fair in large numbers and cultivate the habit of reading to broaden their understanding of different disciplines.
He also acknowledged the growing role of technology and mobile devices in modern life but stressed that the tradition of reading books must continue. According to him, literature and books play a key role in connecting people with Indian culture, traditions and values, while also fostering national consciousness.
Referring to India’s philosophical ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Upadhyay said literature helps keep this universal message alive in society by promoting harmony and shared human values.
Congratulating the organizers for hosting the fair, he said such initiatives help strengthen knowledge, cultural awareness and positive thinking in society.
Among those present on the occasion were patron Murlidhar Ahuja, convenor Manoj Singh Chandel, patron T.P. Haveliya, director Aakarsh Chandel, and U.P. Tripathi, founder of the Vishwam Foundation.
