Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 1: Book lovers are in for a treat as the Chinar Book Festival returns to Srinagar-this time on a grander scale-starting tomorrow with participation from over 130 publishers across the country.
Addressing a press conference, the organisers said that following the overwhelming response to its inaugural edition in 2024, this year’s fair promises an even more expansive celebration of literature.
Scheduled to run until August 9, the upcoming edition will feature a wider selection of books, a diverse array of events, and the participation of fresh literary voices.
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“The fair seeks to further invigorate the reading culture across the region and provide a vibrant platform for dialogue, discovery, and community engagement,” the organisers said.
Organised by the National Book Trust, India (NBT), in collaboration with the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) and the District Administration Srinagar, the Chinar Book Fair 2025 will be held from August 2 to 10 at the scenic lawns of SKICC.
The nine-day literary festival will host over 130 publishers and bookstalls from across India, showcasing titles in English, Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri, and other Indian languages.
From bilingual children’s books and academic works to regional literature and digital content, the fair promises a rich and inclusive selection for readers of all ages.
This year’s edition, the organisers noted, goes beyond a conventional book exhibition, positioning the festival as a platform for intellectual engagement, cultural dialogue, and educational enrichment.
A notable highlight is the Rajarangini Samvad-a dedicated series of workshops and panel discussions exploring the historical, literary, and cultural dimensions of the classical Kashmiri text.
The festival will also feature a National Exhibition on the ancient Sharda Script and host the first-ever Gojri Translation Workshop, which will produce bilingual books in Hindi, Urdu, Dogri, Kashmiri, and English-promoting linguistic diversity and inclusion.
Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convener of the Chinar Book Festival, said the event is much more than a literary gathering.
“It reflects the spirit of learning and cultural pride in Kashmir. In a world that often feels lonely, this book festival unites us all.”
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