Ranchi National Book Fair: Surge in Demand for Jharkhand History, Culture, and Self-Help Books

Ranchi: The ongoing National Book Fair, being held at the district school grounds, has emerged as a major attraction for readers.There is a surge in demand for books related to the state's history, culture, and tribal heritage, as well as mental health and self-development literature among the youth. The 10-day book fair is being jointly organised by Samay India and the Book Fair Committee at the district school ground.More than 100 stalls have been set up at the fair, with participation from over 50 publishers. The book fair which started on Jan 26 will continue until Jan 4 and will remain open daily from 11:00 am to 7:30 pm.Chandra Bhushan, the managing trustee of Samay Publication, said, "Books focusing on the state's revolutionaries, indigenous communities, language, tourism, art, and cultural identity are witnessing strong sales. Books dedicated to Jharkhand’s revolutionaries, 24 districts, tribes, Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), along with illustrated volumes on tourism, tradition, art, and culture, have emerged as key attractions."Publishers reported specific interest in multi-volume works on the state's tribal history, freedom movements, regional identity, and tourism compendiums. Several stalls showcased popular works by noted authors, children’s storybooks, epics, biographies, and self-help titles, which recorded brisk sales. Birendra Kumar, state in-charge of Samay Prakashan, said, “Readers are increasingly showing curiosity about the state's socio-cultural roots, history, and identity, reflecting a renewed interest in understanding the state beyond textbooks.”Divya Ojha, a customer, said, “I am glad to see so many books on history and tribal culture in one place. At the same time, mental health and self-help books are helping young people like us find guidance and balance in everyday life.”