The much-awaited Assam Book Fair has officially opened in Lakhimpur, drawing enthusiastic readers, writers, and publishers from across the state. The fair aims to promote reading habits among people of all ages while supporting local authors and publishers.
Organised by the Publication Board of Assam, in collaboration with the Lakhimpur district administration, the event marks another milestone in the state’s effort to strengthen its literary and cultural heritage. The week-long fair promises a vibrant mix of book launches, discussions, poetry recitations, and interactive sessions for young readers.
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Promoting a culture of reading
The Assam Book Fair in Lakhimpur seeks to revive the habit of reading in an era dominated by digital media. With the theme “Books for All, Knowledge for All,” the fair aims to reconnect people with the joy of printed literature.
Inaugurating the event, Lakhimpur Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sumit Sattawan said that books continue to be an important source of wisdom and imagination, even in the age of smartphones and the internet. He encouraged students and parents to make reading a part of daily life.
“The book fair is not just a marketplace but a festival of ideas. It provides readers a chance to explore, learn, and engage directly with writers,” Sattawan said. He also mentioned that the government supports such events as they help nurture creativity and intellectual growth among young people.
Several noted Assamese authors and poets attended the opening ceremony. They shared their thoughts on how literature reflects social changes and helps preserve the Assamese identity. The fair also features bookstalls from across Assam and neighbouring states, offering a wide range of titles in Assamese, English, Hindi, and other regional languages.
Encouraging young readers
One of the key highlights of the Assam Book Fair is its focus on children and students. Organisers have arranged storytelling sessions, quiz competitions, and creative writing workshops to inspire reading among the younger generation.
Teachers from various schools have welcomed this initiative, saying that book fairs play a vital role in exposing students to diverse ideas. “Children get to see that books are not just for exams but for life. They learn that reading can be fun, inspiring, and deeply enriching,” said a local school principal.
Parents have also been enthusiastic, taking their children to visit the stalls and meet authors. Many said that the fair gives students an opportunity to explore topics not covered in classrooms, from folklore and science to art and environment.
A dedicated children’s pavilion has been set up, featuring colourful displays and interactive sessions. Organisers believe that such initiatives will help instil reading habits early in life.
Boosting local authors and publishers
The Assam Book Fair also provides a platform for local writers and small publishers to showcase their work. In recent years, many Assamese authors have struggled to reach wider audiences due to limited distribution channels. The fair gives them visibility and direct access to readers.
Over 80 publishers and bookstores are participating in the Lakhimpur event. They have displayed thousands of books covering fiction, history, poetry, biographies, and academic subjects. The fair also highlights the growing interest in regional literature, with a special section devoted to works translated from Bodo, Mising, and Karbi languages.
Publishers say the fair has boosted their sales and given them valuable feedback. “Events like this are crucial for promoting Assamese literature. They help us connect with readers face-to-face,” said a representative from an Assam-based publishing house.
Several new books were released during the fair’s opening days, including works by emerging writers and poets. Authors used the occasion to discuss their creative journeys and interact with young fans.
A celebration of literature and identity
Beyond book sales, the Assam Book Fair in Lakhimpur serves as a cultural event celebrating the state’s literary traditions. Music, poetry readings, and discussions on literature’s role in social progress have drawn large audiences.
Cultural performances, including Bihu songs and traditional dances, have added colour to the evenings, making the fair a community celebration. Local artists and school students have also taken part in exhibitions and performances that highlight Assam’s cultural diversity.
DC Sattawan said that the district administration plans to make the fair an annual event. He emphasised that the growing interest among readers shows a positive shift in the community. “Books are the foundation of knowledge. When people read more, they think better and act wisely. A society that reads is a society that progresses,” he remarked.
Strengthening Assam’s literary movement
The Assam Book Fair is part of a broader effort by the Publication Board of Assam to promote reading across the state. The board regularly organises similar fairs in different districts, ensuring that smaller towns also get access to books and literary activities.
Officials said that the Lakhimpur edition received strong support from schools, colleges, and NGOs. They believe that such fairs can help bridge the gap between authors and readers while encouraging a new generation of writers.
Literary enthusiasts in Lakhimpur expressed hope that the fair will encourage local youth to take up writing. “Assam has always had a strong literary tradition, and we must continue nurturing it. The book fair reminds us of that responsibility,” said a local poet.
Inspiring a lifelong love for books
As the Assam Book Fair continues through the week, the excitement among visitors remains high. Readers of all ages are spending hours browsing through books, attending discussions, and meeting their favourite authors.
The fair has become more than just a venue for buying books — it is a gathering that celebrates learning, creativity, and community spirit. Organisers believe that the energy and enthusiasm seen in Lakhimpur will encourage other districts to host similar events in the coming months.
Through this initiative, Assam reinforces its image as a state that values knowledge and creativity. By promoting reading, it ensures that the next generation carries forward the light of literature and keeps the spirit of learning alive.
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