Renewed enthusiasm marks Imphal Book Fair
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, December 21 2023:
The on-going Imphal Book Fair, which was scheduled for wrap-up on Thursday, has been extended for three more days till December 24 in the interest of the people.
Altogether 52 stalls including 10 firms from outside the state, one of Bir Tikendrajit University and local firms are participating in the 30th edition of the fair, which began on December 15.Despite encountering several hurdles including logistics, change of venue and reduced number of participating book firms, it defied the odds by drawing a significant crowd, particularly students from various corners of Manipur.
Lauding the organisers of the fair, chief minister N Biren Singh appealed to the youth of the state via his Facebook page' to explore the book fair posting, "Book fair not only instils reading habits to the youths, but also provides the readers with an opportunity to interact with authors and publishers of books, etc.
Before it ends on December 24, I urge all to visit the 30th Imphal Book Fair organised by the State Central Library, Imphal under the aegis of Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRLF), Ministry of Culture at the State Central Library & Manipur Archives campus at Keishampat" .
The CM concluded his post with an apt appeal, "Celebrate the joy of reading and embrace the knowledge waiting to be discovered".
State Central Library chief librarian RK Urmila highlighted the evolving landscape of libraries in Manipur while conceding recent dip in their influence and expressing optimism about a swift revival.
She also acknowledged the role of Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation in nurturing these libraries, despite a recent pause in financial aid due to funding constraints.
Reflecting on the library's journey from controversy to aspirations of becoming a model institution, Urmila prioritised transparency and modernisation along with stressing the importance of enhancing infrastructure, integrating modern technology, and ensuring greater accountability before her tenure concludes in 2026.Award winner author Saratchand Thiyam pointed out importance of book faifs as beacons of knowledge during troubled times and opined that the Imphal Book Fair is not merely a gathering for bibliophiles but a social hub where readers engage with authors and publishers/ fostering a unique sense of community.
While acknowledging the rise of e-books and digital libraries, Saratchand defended the irreplaceable allure of physical books and the joy of storytelling from their original pages.
Ramesh Tiwari, a regular participant from Kolkata-based Book Line, expressed regret for missing this year's fair due to unforeseen circumstances.
His poignant recollections of dedicated book lovers traveling considerable distances to acquire cherished reads highlighted the unique fervour of the Imphal Book Fair.
Meanwhile, Martin Thokchom, owner of Ukiyo bookstore, emphasised the fair's gradual growth and its imperative role in fostering a vibrant reading culture in Imphal.
Despite recognising the need for improvements, he lauded the fair's momentum and expressed confidence of even brighter days ahead.
A representative of New Delhi-based Sunmarg Publishers and Distributor conveyed that the flow of visitors to the Book Fair is satisfactory, with his stall alone books worth Rs 10-20,000 a day.
It is remarkable to witness the people visiting the Fair without fear of the prevailing tension, the representative observed, while hoping for restoration of peace and normalcy in the state as soon as possible.
A visitor to the Fair also expressed her appreciation of the government for organising the event amidst the unrest situation.
She further appreciated the opportunity to purchase all the required books from one single location, while remarking that the event would help revive the reading habit amongst the youth.
On the other hand, copies of newspapers published in the state since 2021 after the burning of the State Central Library on April 13, 2005, are being recorded at the on-going Book Fair.
Efforts are underway to record publications of previous years as well.
The Imphal Book Fair, though faced with challenges, continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone, uniting communities through the love of literature.
As it evolves, embracing modernity while cherishing tradition, the fair remains a testament to the unwavering spirit of resilience and intellectual nourishment amidst adversity.
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