Guests described books as priceless treasure of knowledge
Prayagraj: The ten-day Book Fair Carnival 2026 was inaugurated on Friday at Laxmi Narayan Vatika, Darbhanga Colony, to coincide with the Durga Puja and Agrasen Jayanti celebrations. Chief and special guests at the inauguration included CA Vinay Goyal, CA R.K. Agarwal, Manoj Agarwal, Ravindra Kumar Gupta, and Rotarian Ajay Sharma.
Chief guest CA Vinay Goyal said that books are a priceless treasure of knowledge and culture. Such events play an important role in connecting children and youth with good books and fostering a culture of reading in society. CA R.K. Aggarwal said that books help expand one’s knowledge and ideas. Book fairs are a valuable way to connect the new generation with literature, education, and Indian culture.
Manoj Agarwal said that families should come to book fairs with children, so that they can develop interest in reading and learning from childhood. Ravindra Kumar Gupta, Director, Patanjali Group of Schools, said that the purpose of education is not limited to curriculum, but also to develop curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking in students. Book fairs introduce students to the vast world of knowledge.
Rotarian Ajay Sharma, President of the Rotary Club of Prayagraj Platinum and District Secretary, said that the spread of literature and education can bring about positive change in society. Such events connect youth with knowledge and social concerns. The program was hosted by All India Radio artist and announcer Priyanshu Srivastava. His impressive presentation lent literary and cultural significance to the event.
Organizer Manish Garg said that the purpose of the Book Fair Carnival is not just to sell books, but also to inspire children and youth to read, move away from their mobile screens, promote book culture within families, and provide a platform for local authors and talent. He expressed his gratitude to all the guests, publishers, partner organizations, and book lovers.
The stalls of Nikhil Publishers, Dinkar Library, Rohit Book Company, Upkar Prakashan, Rajpal & Sons, Rupa Publications, Manjul Publishing House, Geeta Press, Vani Prakashan, Penguin Random House Hindi, Harper Collins, Bodhi Prakashan, Brijvasi Art Press, Navneet, Westland Books, Setu Prakashan, Sadhna Prakashan, Hind Yugam, Diksha Books & Stationery, Creative Cart, Arz Hai Prakashan, Rekta Urdu, Authors Corner and other publishers who have come from different cities of the country to the fair are the centre of attraction.
The carnival will feature children’s books, Hindi and English literature, competitive exam books, educational materials, religious and spiritual books, and books on various subjects. Open mic and cultural programs will be held daily during the fair. The Arj Hai Lekhan group will provide literary presentations, while the Rakt Sankalp organization will spread awareness about voluntary blood donation. Azad Reads is the reading partner in the event and support is being received from various organizations including Rotary and Shri Agrasen Agarwal Samaj. The Book Fair Carnival will be held from October 9th to 18th, daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, at Laxmi Narayan Vatika, Louder Road, Prayagraj. Admission is free, and parking is available at Gate No. 2. Organizers have appealed to city residents to come with their families and be a part of this book festival.
