The city of Vijayawada is set to transform into a vibrant hub for bibliophiles and knowledge seekers as the 36th edition of the Vijayawada Book Festival (VBFS) unfolds. This grand literary carnival will be held for 11 days, from January 2 to January 11, at the sprawling grounds of the Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) stadium.
Grand Inauguration and Distinguished Guests
The festival will be formally inaugurated on Friday by a panel of eminent personalities. Supreme Court judge Justice Pamidighantam Narasimha will grace the occasion as the chief guest. He will be joined by Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary K Vijayanand and AP Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Raghu Rama Krishna Raju. In a fitting tribute, the main stage of the festival has been named after the renowned psychologist and author, Dr. BV Pattabhi Ram.
The organizers have confirmed a series of high-profile visits throughout the event. Odisha Governor Dr. Kambampati Hari Babu is scheduled to visit the festival on January 3, where he will interact with publishers and journalists. Following him, former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will attend on January 4. During his visit, Naidu will launch the Telugu translations of two books authored by Ram Madhav: 'Mukkalaina Swatantram' (Partitioned Freedom) and 'Mana Rajyangam-Mana Atma Gouravam' (Our Constitution-Our Pride).
A Vast Marketplace of Ideas and Entertainment
Book lovers will have a field day exploring a massive collection spread across 280 book stalls. These stalls, operational for the entire duration of the festival, promise to offer a diverse range of literature, catering to all ages and interests. Beyond the simple act of buying books, the VBFS has curated an engaging lineup of programs to create a holistic cultural experience.
The schedule is packed with activities designed to stimulate minds and foster a love for reading. Attendees can look forward to:
- A captivating magic show.
- A 'Walk for Books' event to promote literacy.
- Quiz and drawing competitions for participants.
- Story writing sessions.
- Interactive book review discussions.
A Legacy of Promoting Literature
The Vijayawada Book Festival has established itself as a cornerstone event in the region's cultural calendar. By providing a platform for publishers, authors, and readers to connect, it plays a pivotal role in promoting literary culture. The 36th edition, with its impressive scale and distinguished guest list, continues this legacy. It is not just a book fair but a celebration of knowledge, wisdom, and the enduring power of the written word, set to inspire the community for eleven enriching days.
