Assam Book Fair Concludes with Record Sales and Celebrated Literary Culture

Successful Conclusion of the Assam Book Fair

The 14-day Assam Book Fair in Guwahati wrapped up on Tuesday, achieving remarkable book sales totaling Rs 7.4 crores, marking one of the most successful editions to date.

Jointly organized by the Assam Publication Board and the All Assam Book Publishers and Sellers Association, the event took place at the Assam College of Veterinary Science playground in Khanapara, showcasing a rich tapestry of literature, culture, drama, and history.

Education Minister and President of the Assam Publication Board, Dr. Ranoj Pegu, attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest.

In his address, Dr. Pegu underscored the lasting significance of books in our technologically driven world.

He remarked, 'Just as the listener is the main ornament of a musical gathering, the reader is the main ornament of a book fair,' highlighting that the impressive sales figures indicate a sustained interest in reading.

While acknowledging the growth of e-books, he affirmed that readers continue to pursue knowledge and wisdom through traditional books.

Dr. Pegu also pointed out the necessity of balancing artificial intelligence with emotional intelligence, emphasizing that reading and music are vital for mental peace and inspiration.

He assured attendees that the Assam Publication Board would maintain its enthusiasm in organizing future book fairs to bolster the literary movement in the state.

The guest of honor, esteemed Odia author and Sahitya Akademi Award winner Parmita Satpathi, praised Assam's vibrant literary scene.

She described the fair as a genuine celebration of books, reaffirming the enduring importance of literature. Satpathi also commended Assam's natural beauty, noting how the Brahmaputra River enriches the state's culture, cuisine, and traditions.

She congratulated the people of Assam on the Assamese language achieving classical status and highlighted the historical and linguistic ties between Assamese and Odia, advocating for increased translation efforts to enhance both literary heritages.

Renowned writer and journalist Arup Kumar Dutta remarked that the Assam Book Fair has reached a scale comparable to the Kolkata Book Fair in terms of organization and sales.

However, he cautioned both readers and publishers to distinguish between serious literature and 'populist literature,' asserting that true literature confronts readers with reality and remains timeless.

Another distinguished guest, Diganta Biswa Sharma, convener of the Assamese Language Advisory Council of the Sahitya Akademi, stated that the Assam Book Fair has invigorated the book revolution in the state.

Quoting literary figures, he reflected on literature as a guiding light that reveals deeper philosophical and cultural values, asserting that books will always be vessels of knowledge.

During the ceremony, the Assam Publication Board Literary Award–2025 was awarded to Dr. Dipak Kumar Barkakati for his novel Aishwarya, which includes a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, a ceremonial robe, a citation, and a collection of valuable books.

The Literary Award for Publisher was given to Ranjan Jyoti Sharma, owner of Bandhav Publications, which includes Rs 3 lakh, a ceremonial robe, and a set of books. Both awards were presented by Dr. Ranoj Pegu.

In accepting the award, Dr. Barkakati expressed that it not only encourages creative writing but also instills a sense of responsibility towards literature and society.

The event also saw the launch of the 'Modern Glossary (Anglo-Assamese)' mobile application, an initiative by the Assam Publication Board, developed by language technologist Dr. Gunadweep Chetia and linguist Dr. Bhaskarjyoti Sharma. The app will be available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Awards for Children's Day events and cultural competitions were also distributed. In the school category, North East Public School, Kahilipara secured first place, followed by South Point School, Barsapara, while Assam National School, Noonmati and Sankardev Shishu Vidya Niketan jointly stood third. SBHA Public School, Gorchuk secured fourth place. In the college category, Dispur College won first place, Handique Girls' College second, Cotton University third, and Gauhati University fourth.

Earlier, Assam Publication Board Secretary Pramod Kalita delivered the welcome address, stating that in line with the 'Book Year' declared by the Assam government, book fairs were organized at eight locations across the state this year, including Guwahati.

He emphasized that book sales are the true measure of a book fair's success, noting that sales of approximately Rs 7.4 crores over 14 days reflect the strong reading culture in Assam.