Kolkata, India – In an age where digital content often overshadows the charm of printed books, Dr. Debabrata Chatterjee, a dedicated teacher from Chakdah, West Bengal, has emerged as a true champion of literature. His profound love for books was evident at the 47th International Kolkata Book Fair 2024, where he made headlines by purchasing books worth a staggering ₹4.54 lakh over multiple visits.
Dr. Chatterjee, a firm believer in the transformative power of books, visited the fair eight times, often accompanied by his students. His passion extends far beyond personal collection—he is deeply invested in nurturing a culture of reading among young minds. His personal library is a testament to his lifelong dedication to literature, housing over 14,000 books, collectively valued at more than ₹1.2 crore.
A Vision Beyond Personal Collection
While many consider book collecting a personal hobby, Dr. Chatterjee sees it as a social responsibility. With a vision to make books accessible to the youth, he is now working towards establishing a public library in Chakdah. His goal is to create a space where students and book lovers can immerse themselves in knowledge, cultivate curiosity, and develop a lifelong habit of reading.
Kolkata Book Fair 2024: A Record-Breaking Event
The Kolkata Book Fair, known for its vibrant literary culture, set new records this year, attracting approximately 29 lakh visitors and generating ₹28 crore in book sales. These figures reaffirm Kolkata’s status as the City of Literature, where books remain a treasured part of everyday life. The massive turnout also highlights the enduring love for printed books, even in an era dominated by digital media.
A Prolific Writer with 27 Books to His Name
Dr. Chatterjee’s passion for books is not just limited to reading and collecting—he is also a prolific author. Over the years, he has written 27 books, covering diverse subjects that resonate with readers. Remarkably, 18 of these books were penned during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that he used productively to channel his thoughts and insights into writing. His works reflect a deep understanding of literature, education, and social change.
