The iconic Gandhi Maidan in Patna was transformed into a vibrant celebration of literature as the 41st Patna Book Fair opened its gates on December 5. The event, which will run until December 16, has already witnessed an overwhelming response, firmly establishing the city's deep-rooted love for the written word.
Record-Breaking Footfall Highlights Enduring Love for Books
Over the first weekend alone, the fair attracted a footfall of more than one lakh visitors. Sunday was particularly bustling, with around 80,000 people thronging the grounds. Binit Kumar, a senior official at the fair, expressed his delight at the massive turnout, stating that the organizers were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic participation in various activities and interactive sessions.
The fair served as a perfect antidote to the digital age, proving that the tactile pleasure of printed books remains irreplaceable. From wide-eyed children clutching fantasy novels to serious competitive exam aspirants comparing study materials, the venue catered to every type of reader.
Spotlight on Learning and a Multi-Crore Marvel
For students like UPSC aspirant Ravi Kumar, the fair was a treasure trove of resources. He highlighted the advantage of being able to compare comprehensive question banks and solved papers from multiple publishers side-by-side, a convenience difficult to find elsewhere.
The theme for this year's edition is 'Wellness - A way of life', promising discussions and activities centered around holistic living. Among the key events were three book launches on Sunday, but one particular unveiling captured everyone's imagination.
The fair became the stage for the launch of what is touted as the world's most expensive book, priced at a staggering Rs 15 crore. Authored by Ratneshwar and available in both Hindi and English, this literary masterpiece instantly became the central attraction. Organizers revealed that only three copies are available for sale, with one copy reserved for the Bihar Museum after the fair concludes.
Fostering a Reading Habit for the Future
Amit Jha, the convenor of the fair with over two decades of association, emphasized the event's core mission. In an era dominated by screens, he stressed the importance of reigniting the habit of reading physical books among the youth. Jha noted that even the simple act of browsing through books at the stalls is a positive step towards rebuilding that connection.
The joy of discovery was perfectly encapsulated by seven-year-old Anika, who excitedly showed off her new fantasy book. Her dilemma of wanting to buy more books than she was allowed summed up the festive spirit of the day.
With several days still to go, the 41st Patna Book Fair continues to promise a rich synergy of literature, learning, and community, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Bihar's cultural calendar.
