Assam Book Fair 2023: A Cultural Celebration at Khanapara

A Hub of Literary Enthusiasm

Guwahati, December 30: The Assam Book Fair has turned the grounds of the Assam Veterinary Science College in Khanapara into a lively cultural venue, attracting thousands of bibliophiles daily since its opening on December 24.

Despite the winter chill, a diverse crowd of readers, authors, educators, students, and families have been attending the fair, showcasing the timeless allure of books in an era dominated by digital technology and artificial intelligence.

This 14-day event, organized by the Assam Publication Board and the All Assam Book Publishers and Sellers Association, has seen a consistent influx of visitors and promising sales from the outset.

As of Monday, the fair's sixth day, approximately 2,600 individuals have been visiting each day, bringing the total attendance to around 15,600.

Notably, books about popular singer Zubeen Garg have emerged as favorites among attendees this year.

Publishers have reported strong interest in a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, translations, children's literature, and journalism, alongside the titles focused on Garg.

Pramod Kalita, Secretary of the Assam Publication Council, expressed optimism about the fair's success, stating, “The response from readers has been very encouraging. Sales could reach Rs 2.20 crore based on current trends. The turnout and purchases have been significant, even during the day, which is a positive indicator for the remaining days.”

The evenings have been particularly vibrant, featuring cultural events, discussions, and informal gatherings that enhance the festive atmosphere.

Writer Ranju Hazarika shared his thoughts on the fair's ambiance, noting the unique joy of being surrounded by books. He praised the government's recognition of emerging writers and emphasized the abundance of talent and the need for writers to explore new themes.

Publishers echoed this sentiment. Manish Hazarika from Bonolata Prakashan mentioned that their new releases under the ‘Granth Barsha’ initiative, featuring over 30 titles, have been well-received.

“In recent days, readers of all ages have visited our stalls. Works by Anuradha Sharma Pujari and Ranju Hazarika, along with journalistic pieces and translated titles, have sold well, indicating a clear interest in informative content,” he noted.

Mayur Sharma from Jyoti Prakashan reported brisk sales of their key titles, stating, “Books by Rita Choudhury, Kanchan Barua, Ranju Hazarika, and translated works by Prafulla Kotoky have sold out, reflecting a consistently positive response from readers.”

Deven Kalita from Rekha Prakashan highlighted the high demand for children's literature, particularly works related to Zubeen Garg.

Visitors shared their nostalgia and optimism. One frequent attendee mentioned purchasing multiple books, including two about Zubeen Garg, and expressed joy at the growing enthusiasm for books.

Another visitor noted that despite the prevalence of smartphones and AI, the younger generation's interest in reading appears to be increasing.

Lalita Devi, a veteran reader, stated she attends the fair annually to gather books for the year, emphasizing her commitment despite the distance.

Durlabh Talukdar encapsulated the fair's spirit by recalling Zubeen Garg's saying: “Not a gamusa, but a book preserves a community.”

Adding depth to the fair, a discussion titled ‘Social Reality in Assamese Novels: Contemporary Narratives’ took place at the Zubeen Garg Memorial Auditorium. Esteemed writer Phanindra Kumar Dev Choudhury emphasized the significance of reality in literature, explaining that novels reflect both visible and invisible aspects of life.

“Reality encompasses not just what we can see or touch, but also the unseen dimensions of existence. Themes of social change, industrialization, and class disparities are often woven into novels,” he remarked.

The session, moderated by Sahitya Akademi award-winning author Anuradha Sharma Pujari, highlighted the varying social realities across different classes and experiences.

“True reality is shaped by natural life patterns and personal experiences. Literature and music are vital for maintaining our humanity,” she stated, pointing out contemporary social changes as emerging themes in modern literature.

Another award-winning novelist, Jayanta Madhav Bora, noted that literature grounded in social reality gives voice to the common people.

“A writer doesn’t need to live every subject’s life, but deep observation and understanding are crucial to convey social truths,” he added.

Dr. Lipika Talukdar, an Associate Professor at Radha Govinda Barua College, remarked that novels encompass the entirety of life and society, preserving historical events, social movements, and evolving mindsets across languages, including Assamese literature.

The sixth day of the fair also featured vibrant cultural performances by Shankardev Shishu Niketan, Shankardev Shishu Vidya Niketan, and Pragjyotish College, infusing youthful energy into the evening's events.