Agartala, Jan 2 (NationPress) Bibliomania has captivated the people of Tripura as the 13-day-long 44th Agartala Book Fair, recognized as the second-largest book fair in eastern India after the Kolkata Book Fair, kicked off at the Hapania International Fair Ground located on the outskirts of the capital city this Friday.

Given the unrest resulting from political shifts in Bangladesh, there has been an absence of booksellers and publishers from the neighboring nation at this annual event since last year.

A senior representative noted that the Agartala Book Fair has been a tradition since 1981, with participants from Bangladesh regularly attending the semi-trade book festival.

Inaugurated by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, the fair, organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department, will run until January 14.

During his speech, Saha encouraged attendees to consider gifting valuable books to loved ones instead of opting for flowers or other conventional presents during social occasions.

“With the proliferation of television, mobile phones, and social media, we are losing precious time. Everyone should prioritize reading quality literature instead of squandering time,” the Chief Minister remarked.

He added that due to the prevailing circumstances in their country, booksellers and publishers from Bangladesh have been unable to join the Agartala Book Fair for the past two years.

Saha, who oversees the ICA portfolio, mentioned that the Agartala Book Fair has garnered a commendable reputation globally over the past 44 years.

Bimbisar Bhattacharya, Director of the ICA Department, stated that this year's theme is “Vande Mataram” as the nation celebrates the 150th anniversary of the national song.

More than 183 stalls have been set up this year, featuring numerous booksellers and publishers from outside the region.

Throughout the upcoming 13 days, various activities including a Kavi Sammelan (poets’ conference), cultural performances, discussions on diverse topics, quiz competitions, exhibitions, and the launch of hundreds of new titles will take place,” Bhattacharya outlined.

To accommodate book enthusiasts and other participants, the government has arranged for free bus services to and from the Book Fair from various locations in Agartala until 9 p.m. each day.

This year, booksellers and publishers from Kolkata, Guwahati, and Delhi, along with local publishing houses, have also participated in the fair.

Last year, the Agartala Book Fair recorded sales amounting to Rs 1.53 crore, with over 1,700 performers including singers and dancers participating in various cultural events, as reported by an official.