(Updated on January 7)
Agartala, Jan 6: The 43rd Agartala Book Fair, which began on January 3 at the Agartala International Fair Ground here in Hapania, has taken off to an incredible start by recording Rs 51.53 lakh in book sales within just five days. With Rs 3,94,995 worth of books sold on Day 1, Rs 7,17,100 on Day 2, Rs 10,70,047 on Day 3, Rs 18,89,980 on Day 4 and an impressive 10,81,435 on Day 5, the fair has proven its popularity among book lovers and its impact on Tripura’s cultural atmosphere.
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Adding a touch of history to the event was the presence of Joydeep Chattopadhyay, the fifth-generation descendant of the legendary poet and novelist Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, who authored India’s national song “Vande Mataram“. Joydeep, a contemporary poet whose works like “Foring”, “Amader Nazrul”, “Rokto Golap”, and “Ekdin Ghum Bhenge” have been widely appreciated, visited the fair, delighting both visitors and organizers.
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Joydeep also met Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) Mayor Dipak Majumder, who later expressed his excitement on social media. “Joydeep Chattopadhyay, the fifth-generation descendant of the renowned poet Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, visited my office. He is one of the most admired contemporary poets, and his presence at the 43rd Agartala Book Fair is truly special,” the mayor wrote.
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The 43rd Agartala Book Fair, which runs until January 14, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, in the presence of Minister of Industries and Commerce Santana Chakma, AMC Mayor Dipak Majumder, and other dignitaries. Addressing the gathering Dr. Saha urged people to gift books during celebrations instead of bouquets, saying, “Gifting books can inspire a love for reading and support writers, publishers, and booksellers.”
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This year, the fair was shifted to January to encourage student participation, as February and March are typically exam months. The change has been met with appreciation, as students and their families have been seen flocking to the venue to browse and buy books.
With a wide range of books in Bengali, Hindi, and English, along with cultural programs, author interactions, and book launches, the fair is more than just a marketplace—it’s a celebration of creativity and knowledge. The strong sales and vibrant atmosphere show that the people of Tripura are embracing the joy of reading with open arms.
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