Patna Book Fair 1985
The history of book fairs in Bihar dates back to 1912, when Bihar was separated from Bengal and became a separate state. It was during the time that the city of Bhagalpur hosted the session of the Hindi Literature Conference. The 1913 book fair and exhibition was held on the occasion of the 4th session of the Hindi Literature Conference on 6th December, 1913 in Bhagalpur. At that time, the Hindi Literature Conference was a platform where writers and authors gathered. The book 📚 exhibition held during this session ignited a passion for knowledge among the local people, which continues to this day.
The idea of organising a book fair in Patna was first conceived in 1985 at the session of the Bihar State Book Sellers Association, Patna (बिहार राज्य पुस्तक व्यवसायी संघ, पटना). The concept was brought to life by Messers Novelty & Company and Messers Bharati Bhawan, along with other members of the Bihar State Book Sellers Association. The Patna Book Fair received support from permanent figures such as former Vice-President B.D. Jatti, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and M.P. D.P. Yadav. It also received support from the Indian Council for Child Education, Delhi and the Federation of Educational Publishers in India, New Delhi.
Initially, the fair was held on the occasion of Jawaharlal Nehru’s birthday (November 14). Later, it was decided to hold the fair in the last week of November and the first week of December, considering the convenience of publishers and readers. The date of the year is fixed in such a way that it coincides with two Saturdays and two Sundays, allowing readers to visit the fair and browse through books 📚.
Over the past three to four decades, the Patna Book Fair has evolved into a cultural movement. It is no longer just a place for buying and selling books, but a platform that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Bihar. The fair features various events, including seminars, poetry recitations, career counseling and cultural performances. The Patna Book 📚 Fair, a significant cultural and educational event, was first organised in 1985 by the Bihar Rajya Pustak Vyvasayi Sangh, Patna. The fair amend to promote reading habits and provide a platform for book lovers to come together.
The first Patna Book Fair was held from 30th September to 7th October, 1985. Since then, the fair has been organised regularly, with the exception of a few years.
The Patna Book Fair is the only book fair in the country where a young writer, a theater artist and a journalist are honored every year. The fair also features street plays, art exhibitions, classical music and folk song performancs by renowned artists.
The fair has been a grand success, with participation from renowned publishers and booksellers from across the country. The event has also witnessed the release of several books and literary works.
The Patna Book Fair has played a significant role in promoting education and literary in the region. It has also provided a platform for authors, publishers and readers to interact and share their love for books.
Organisers and Supporters
The Patna Book Fair is organised by the Bihar State Book Sellers Association [बिहार राज्य पुस्तक व्यवसायी संघ, पटना] Patna, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Child Education Delhi and the Federation of Educational Publishers in India.
The fair has received support from the various organisations, including the National Book Trust, India and the Government of Bihar.
Future Plans
The organisers plan to continue the Patna Book Fair annually, with a focus on promoting reading habits and literary activities in the region. The Patna Book Fair has played a significant role in bringing about a change in the social and political landscape of Bihar. It is a symbol of the state’s commitment to promoting education and culture.
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