‘Declining love for printed books is a matter of concern’

Bhubaneswar: The emerging demand for e-books has put a question mark on the relevance of the printed ones. Therefore, it has become all the more important for writers, publishers, intellects and readers to come together to save our culture and literature,” said Consumer Welfare and Food Supplies Minister Sanjay Dasburma while inaugurating the 33^rd Bhubaneswar Book Fair  at Exhibition Ground here on Wednesday.

Addressing the gathering, eminent poet Sitakanta Mohapatra said, “Nothing can replace the pleasure of reading printed books. It can never die, though the declining love for books among youngsters is a matter of concern.”

Vice Chancellor Utkal University Ashok Das said book fairs will help recreate interest among youngsters for printed books. Among others, renowned litterateur Satakadi Hota and actor Bijay Mohanty also shared their love for printed books.

Lyricist Narayan Prasad Singh, writer Tulasi Ojha and linguist Rohit Kumar Patel were felicitated on the occasion.

Publishers from Odisha and other parts of the country have put up 350 stalls, showcasing the best of their publications, at the fair and are hopeful of good sale this year.

To attract people to the book fair, painting workshops are being organised. The fair is on till April 16.