"VAN" (Delhi Bureau - 11.07.2023) :: National Book Trust, India is organizing the first-of-its-kind Ladakh Book Festival from 12-16 July 2023 at the New Multipurpose Indoor Stadium (NDS Memorial Sports Ground), opposite LAHDC Secretariat, Leh. Set against the serene backdrop of the towering Himalayas and Karakoram Mountain ranges, this literary festival is a joyous ode to both the written word and the magnificence of Ladakh.
Organized in association with Administration of UT of Ladakh, this festival aims to provide a platform for bringing the Ladakhi Literature, Arts and Culture to the forefront of discourse at the National and International platforms through its digital outreach programme where all the discussions will be made Live across various platforms pan India.
The Ladakh Book Festival will be inaugurated by Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Ladakh – Brigadier B.D. Mishra.
The Festival will be a platform for literary aficionados and book lovers to engage with renowned authors through captivating sessions, discussions, book launches and much more.
Discussions include strategic importance of Ladakh in global geopolitical scenario, climatic and environmental aspects, and ancient stories whispering through mountains and high passes which shaped the course of India as a nation. It will also discuss ideas of bringing best of the literature, folklore, poetry developed around the Indus from Leh, Kargil, Gilgit-Baltistan regions to the National forum.
Interactive storytelling sessions and stimulating workshops will be held for young readers during the entire duration of the festival to spark their imagination and nurture their creativity. Apart from the main venue, a host of activities and events will also be organised all across the city of Leh, including reading and storytelling sessions, musical performances, art and craft activities, ensuring an immersive experience for all.
A three-day translation workshop in Hindi to Bhoti language will also be organised on the sidelines of the book festival to foster greater translation of local literature, facilitating wider access to the literary treasures of Ladakh. In addition, there will be an interactive session between PM YUVA authors and the budding authors of Ladakh, so that the experiences and skills are shared with aspiring writers from the region so that more and more youth can join the PM YUVA Scheme and have their works published from National Book Trust India. The PM YUVA Scheme for Young Authors encourages young scribes from the nation in building a strong nation and an informed next generation.
The Ladakh Book Festival 2023 will also have exhibition by prominent publishers and booksellers from across the country, showcasing bestsellers and rare books at the same time. At one hand there will be comics and graphics novels from Amar Chitra Katha and Pitara, and on the other hand there are National Publishers like NCERT, Publications Division, National Book Trust India, Lalit Kala Academy, and CSTT, providing a range of publications. It also has an exhibit of best of the publications in Bodhi language and Buddhist literature through Central Institute of Buddhist studies and others. The collection of books by Loksabha Secretariat will be a wonderful insight to the visitors. The collection of Urdu books by National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language and Culture Academy’s Kargil chapter showcases books for the diverse reading needs for the people of Kargil and Leh. These stalls will offer visitors a wonderful opportunity to explore and purchase books that pique their interest, from works that delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Ladakh to captivating regional literature promoting the joy of reading, while encouraging the exploration of diverse literary works.
Addressing the Press Conference held today at Leh, Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director National Book Trust, India talked about how books and reading impact every mind, and how exchange of literature & culture influences a society, and hence this unique book festival by NBT-India is an opportunity for all age-groups to visit and benefit from this event. He asked the youth to visit the fair and added, “One book can change your life, Come and choose that book in this book festival”. Speaking at the Press Conference from UT of Ladakh side, Shri Sonam Nurboo appealed to the people of the region to benefit from this book festival and get the best from it – as it is an unique initiative by NBT-India.
Against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the Ladakh Book Festival 2023 promises to create a vibrant literary community and transport participants to a world where words come alive. It is an unparalleled opportunity for travellers and Ladakhis alike, to indulge in the magic of literature while basking in the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh. It is a celebration the magic of words, the joy of reading, and the boundless creativity of the human spirit.
NBT requested to all of you & book lovers that mark your calendars for the Ladakh Book Festival from 12 to 16 July 2023, 10 am to 6 pm. Entry is free for all! And 10% discount on the purchase of books as well!
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