The fifth edition of the Assam Book Fair concluded on a high note in Guwahati this Tuesday, setting a new benchmark for literary events in the region. The 14-day cultural extravaganza witnessed an unprecedented surge in book sales, crossing a remarkable Rs 7.40 crore, and drew massive crowds of enthusiastic readers daily.
Record-Breaking Sales and Overwhelming Public Response
Organised jointly by the Assam Publication Board and the All Assam Publishers and Booksellers Association at the Khanapara veterinary ground, the fair proved to be a resounding success. With over 130 stalls featuring publishers from across the nation, the event became a hub for bibliophiles. Secretary of the Assam Publication Board, Pramod Kalita, revealed that the fair saw an average daily footfall of nearly 30,000 visitors, culminating in the record financial turnover.
Kalita emphasised that these figures are a strong indicator of a growing reading culture in Assam, resilient even in the digital age. "Despite the rapid growth of the digital age and e-books, there continues to be a strong and enduring interest among readers in owning and reading physical copies of books," he stated. Genres like novels, children's literature, and history were reportedly among the most popular, showcasing diverse reading preferences across age groups.
Zubeen Garg Publications Steal the Spotlight
A distinctive trend at this year's fair was the surge in demand for books about the late legendary singer Zubeen Garg. The public's renewed curiosity about his life and legacy following his death translated into significant interest in related publications. While no exact sales numbers for these books were provided, fair organisers noted that approximately 60 to 70 different titles on the artist were available.
Notable books included 'Mayabini Rati’r Bukut' by Debojit Bhuyan, 'Biswa Shilpi Zubeen Garg' by Dulal Mishra, and 'Zubeen Garg: Geet Guwa Darshonikjon' by Dhrubajyoti Das and Ujjwal Bora. However, the book that attracted the most attention was 'Pitrir Dristit Zubeen', authored by the singer's father, Kapil Thakur. Kalita highlighted that this book drew crowds for its intimate and authentic portrayal of the artist's personal journey.
Fostering a Love for Reading Among the Youth
Beyond commercial success, the fair served as a vibrant educational platform. It offered a significant and engaging space for families and ignited enthusiasm among students. Several competitions were organised, attracting enthusiastic participation from students representing 45 educational institutions across Guwahati.
"These events not only encouraged healthy competition but also fostered creativity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for books and learning among the participants," Kalita added. The fair successfully bridged the gap between generations of readers, promoting a tangible, shared literary experience that digital platforms often lack.
The record-breaking turnout and sales at the Assam Book Fair 2024 have firmly established it as a cornerstone event for the state's literary community, promising an even brighter future for the culture of reading in the region.
