World Book Fair to showcase India's cultural heritage

The New Delhi World Book Fair beginning January 9 will offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of India, which is the theme of the nine-day fair in which a total of 30 countries are taking part.
The fair was advanced by a month this year to attract students, especially of Class X and Class XII, who generally tend to give the fair a miss due to Board exams, whose dates coincide with the fair dates, organisers said here today.
Over 1,000 books in different Indian languages, ranging from philosophy, language to literature will be showcased in the theme pavilion whose theme programme is titled 'Vividh Bharat'.

Efforts have been made to show the journey of books from the palm leaves stage to the electronic era besides featuring some of the most new and exciting writings that have appeared across the world.
A total of 30 countries are participating in the Fair, in which a series of programmes including panel discussions, dramas, classical and folk dances, workshops, discussions, authors' meets, conferences, seminars and cultural programmes will be held.
Over 100 CEOs of various publishing houses and organisations in the book trade will come together to share and exchange ideas about Indian and international book trade.

"This year we have something new in the 'navlekhan' programme where we are inviting young authors in Indian languages under the age of 40 and will promote them," Rita Chowdhary, Director, National Book Trust (NBT) said.

The programme will be held every year with NBT publishing a select number of works, passed through a screening committee, she said.
Last year, over 10 lakh visitors attended the Fair organised by the NBT in association with the Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).
A special Children's Pavillion offers various activities like drawing competitions, story telling sessions, skits, meet your favourite authors, discussions, etc.
The Pavilion also showcases some of the best of recent publications for children from across the country.
Other attractions include a selfie corner for photobuffs to click pictures and upload on social networks.
Tickets for the event priced at Rs 20 will be sold from 9 am till 5 pm at 47 stations of the Delhi Metro network from January 9-17. Schoolchildren and disabled are permitted free entry.