The West Bengal government, under the leadership of Education Minister Bratya Basu, reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives such as book fairs and assisting publishers in marketing their works. Basu, a multi-talented individual with roles in playwriting, column writing, acting, and politics, emphasized that the dire predictions of the internet’s impact on books have proven false, as physical books remain immensely popular among readers.

Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘Sharod Boi Parbon 2023’ (Puja Book Festival 2023), Basu expressed his belief that e-books could never replace printed books. He personally prefers hard copies of publications over digital versions. The Book Festival is organized by the Publishers and Book Sellers Guild, the premier association of publishers in the region, known for arranging the widely attended International Kolkata Book Fair, which receives active support from the state government.

Basu assured the state government’s continued support for the Guild in organizing similar book-related events. He explained that avid readers, like himself, are not comfortable reading books online. The experience of holding a physical book, flipping through its pages, and enjoying its unique scent cannot be replicated in the virtual realm. Basu also recalled how Brazilian novelist Paulo Coelho used to release his new books online to combat threats from book pirates and the internet.

Sudhangshu Sekhar Dey, the general secretary of the Guild, highlighted that ‘Sharod Boi Parbon’ is renowned for offering newly released books at attractive discounts to readers. With Durga Puja approaching, the festival encourages people to include books in their shopping lists as thoughtful gifts for their loved ones.

Source: PTI

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