Port Blair, March 20, 2025: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are currently witnessing an unprecedented literary event with the launch of the Andaman Book Festival 2025, arranged by Atul Smriti Samiti, commonly known as the Bengali Club, supported by Publishers & Booksellers Guild Kolkata and Ministry of Art and Culture EZCC Kolkata. The book fair commenced on March 19 and will continue until March 23.
The Atul Smriti Samiti had been trying to organize this festival since 2013, but logistical challenges kept delaying it. Finally, with the support of the Kolkata Publishers & Booksellers Guild and the Eastern Zonal Cultural Association (EZCC), the Atul Smriti Samiti have made it possible this year.
As per details, a total of eleven renowned publishers from mainland India have participated, including Ananda Publishers, Desh Publications, and Oxford Publishers. Additionally, the event has provided a platform for local authors to showcase their works, fostering a stronger reading culture among islanders.
The core aim of the festival is to revive reading habits among people, especially the younger generation, in an era where digital content dominates. The festival has already received an overwhelming response, with book enthusiasts flocking to the venue on the very first day. Organizers were pleasantly surprised by the sheer number of books sold, reinforcing the belief that there is still a strong demand for physical books.
Apart from book sales, the event features cultural performances, literary discussions, and competitions. Schools and colleges have been invited to participate in inter-school and inter-college competitions, including debates, quizzes, and a drawing contest scheduled for March 23.
