“Make Books Your Friends,” Says Justice Siddharth Nandan: Publishers Urged to Develop Online E-Libraries

11-Day Prayagraj Book Fair 2025 Grandly Inaugurated

Prayagraj: The 11-day Prayagraj Book Fair 2025, themed “Vision 2047: Developed India – Developed State,” was inaugurated at The Palms Resort – Royal Garden, Katra (opposite Laxmi Talkies), Prayagraj. The fair was formally opened by the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Siddharth Nandan, Judge of the Allahabad High Court, who inaugurated the event by cutting the ribbon.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Siddharth Nandan underscored the irreplaceable role of books in intellectual growth. While acknowledging the relevance of social media, he said that true intellectual development remains incomplete without books. “Books strengthen our language and grammar, enrich vocabulary, and sharpen our thinking abilities,” he noted. He appealed to the youth to make books their friends and adopt regular reading as a way of life. Emphasising the need to expand access to knowledge, he also suggested that publishers develop books in the form of online e-libraries to ensure wider dissemination of learning.

On behalf of the organising committee, the Chief Guest was presented with a commemorative book as a token of appreciation. Justice Nandan later visited various book stalls at the fair, interacted with publishers, and appreciated their efforts in promoting reading culture.

Arjun Agarwal, Director of Royal Garden, said it was a matter of pride to host a book fair in a historic and culturally rich city like Prayagraj. He reaffirmed Royal Garden’s continued support for such knowledge-driven initiatives.

Organiser Manoj Singh Chandel said the book fair serves as a vibrant platform for readers, writers, students, and literature enthusiasts. He added that renowned publishers and literary institutions from across the country are participating, offering a rich collection of books ranging from children’s literature and academic titles to competitive examination materials, history, culture, philosophy, and contemporary subjects.

Co-organiser Manish Garg informed that leading publishers such as Bharatiya Jnanpith, Sasta Sahitya Mandal, Setu Prakashan, Hind Yugm, Rajkamal Prakashan, Rajpal & Sons, Vani Prakashan, Lokbharti, Samyak Prakashan, and Bookwala (Garg Brothers), along with several national and local publishers, are taking part. The fair is open to the public free of cost.

Rotary Prayagraj Platinum President Dr Prateek Pandey and Secretary CA Sanjay Talwar said book fairs play a crucial role in strengthening the culture of reading and intellectual development in society, assuring Rotary’s continued support for such educational and literary events.

Prayagraj Book Fair Directors Aakarsh Chandel and Shubham Agarwal shared details of the arrangements, stating that special emphasis has been laid on reader convenience and cultural programmes.

Civil Lines Vyapar Mandal President Sushil Kharbanda and General Secretary Shiv Shankar Singh said such events not only promote literary awareness but also give a boost to the city’s cultural and economic activities.

All dignitaries congratulated the organisers on the successful inauguration and appealed to citizens to participate in large numbers.

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