Bratati Baral
National Book Lovers Day, celebrated annually on August 9, is a day dedicated to honoring the joy and passion of reading. It’s a time for bibliophiles to celebrate their love for books, whether they’re avid readers, occasional book buyers, or simply enjoy the occasional novel. On this day, readers often share their favorite books, engage in discussions about literary works, and participate in events promoting reading.
Libraries, bookstores, and online platforms might offer special promotions, book signings, and readings to mark the occasion. It’s also a great opportunity to revisit beloved classics, explore new genres, or discover emerging authors. Whether you’re curled up with a classic novel or diving into the latest bestseller, National Book Lovers Day is a perfect excuse to immerse yourself in the world of literature and celebrate the transformative power of books.
Babula Behera, who runs a book stall at the Old Bus Stand in Bhubaneswar, shares his thoughts on the enduring appeal of books in the digital age. He notes, "In an era dominated by digital media, many avid readers still find solace in the pages of physical books. I have a loyal customer base that regularly visits my store for works by authors like Pratibha Ray, Bibhuti Patnaik, Manoj Das, Gopinath Mohanty, Gourahari Das, Ajay Swain, and other prominent writers. Additionally, books by emerging authors have also captured the interest of readers."
“The place of a physical book cannot be replaced by TV or other electronic media. When television was first introduced, I worried that people's love for books might wane. However, I was mistaken. True book lovers always find solace in the pages of a book. An e-book can never replace the experience of a physical book. Digital media cannot serve as an alternative to the authentic pleasure of reading a real book," says Banoj Tripathy, Publisher at Pakshighara Prakashana.
Bhubaneswar based Gitanjali Mohanty is a passionate reader with a multitude of talents, including poetry.
“I avidly collect new reads and cherish them at my reading corner at home. Despite my busy schedule, I make it a point to attend book fairs in Bhubaneswar and collect some new books”, she says.
Her enthusiasm for reading extends to her family as well; her husband and two sons share her passion. While her elder son gravitates towards mythological stories, her younger one prefers novels. For Gitanjali, getting lost in a book is akin to losing track of time. Not only does reading enrich her general knowledge, but it also provides a refreshing escape for her mind.
