The 10 day long National Book Fair just got concluded on Sunday in Lucknow. The avid readers showcased a huge footfall in the fair at the Moti Mahal Lawns for their love of books despite the pandemic scare.

The fair theme was ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and the event featured important poets and writers from Lucknow in special sessions such as Kavi Sammelan, meetings with the author, Mushaira and book launch.

The fair encased books of different genres and publications such as the National Council for the Promotion of Urdu Language, Ahmadiya Muslim Community, Bahujan Bodhi Sahitya, Vedic Sahitya Kendra, Setu Prakashan, Vani Prakashan Group, Samayak Prakashan were available for bibliophiles.

The limelight of the event was the decorated pandal. I look forward to visiting the fair every year,”said Dr Prakhar Singh, a visitor who had purchased several historical books.

Another visitor, Ankita Das, said that “I was  looking for a collection of poetry here. I managed to get the Rupal Kaur collection at an unbelievable price and I can’t wait to read it.”

“The demand for competitive books had soared high this year,” said the owner of Prabhat Prakashan.

“Vani Prakashan Group said that the response from the people was overwhelming, especially as the event unfolded in the shadow of Covid19 and after a period of one year. Overall, it was beneficial to both readers and publishers,” said the director of Vani Prakashan Group.

In addition to the booksellers, the stall owners  selling ‘thela’- jute bags, gifts, plants and lip smacking dishes were also doing good business, said an organiser, stating that the “no mask” meant  “no entry” policy was strictly adhered during the event.