Dehradun Book Fair which is being organised by National Book Trust (NBT) India in the Parade Ground, keeps on drawing thousands of book lovers from far and near. The fair started on September 12 and will continue till September 20. Over 69 publishers are participating in the fair. The organisers said the people are mostly opting for Hindi books.
Chandi Prasad Panthri, an NBT functionary, who is looking after the fair, said the volume of sale in three days was Rs15 lakhs. NBT has announced 10 percent discount on all the books being bought. Besides, 50 percent discount is being given on books which were published before 2004. NBT itself has put up a separate book stall and books worth Rs1.50 lakhs have been sold till date, he said, adding that the price of the books on display here ranges from Rs10 to Rs3000. Books that are much in demand include those based on Science.
Apart from those based in Delhi, Pune and lucknow, there is a publisher from Uttrakahand too named “DHAD” which is displaying books related to the state. Books on Garhwali language and Garhwali dictionary are much in demand, said Kirti Nawani of DHAD publications, adding that they promote writers and poets hailing from Uttrakhand.
Vani Prakashan Pvt ltd, Sahitya Academy an Jiwan Books Pvt ltd are among those based in Delhi. Another- Dream Beckons Publishers- from Pune is selling national geographic documentaries, CD’s and DVDs of Classical music. They are giving 60 to 70 percent discount on the educational books.
Many stalls have put up children’s comics for sale. Shikhar Sahitya is featuring books containing collection of poem written by the former Chief Minister of the state Ramesh Pokhryal Nishank.