43rd Chennai Book Fair to highlight Tamil language history

“The Chennai Book Fair attracts readers and book lovers from various countries, and from states all over India. As one of Asia’s largest book fairs, it holds 700 stalls with 15 lakh titles and more than 2 crore books — all under single roof,” BAPASI said in a statement.

The 13-day book fair plans to throw light on Tamil language — one of the world’s ancient languages. “A special auditorium titled ‘Keeladi — Eeradi’, showcasing the features of the greatness and ancientness of the language will be set up. The Department of Archaeology has consented to exhibit the evidences related so as to educate the public gathered,” BAPASI president RS Shanmugam said.

In an attempt to promote reading among students, the book fair will also witness an event titled ‘Chennai Reads’ at the venue on January 6, 2020. “For the first time, the book fair has roped in 5,000 students from various schools in and around Chennai. The students will read books, showcasing the necessity of reading,” the organiser added.

Besides that, the fair also plans to bring eminent writers, poets, scientists and popular personalities from various walks of life each day. Young film directors also get to have a place in the fair by screening their short films and documentaries discussing subjects related to books and other social issues.

To attract more young minds towards books, BAPASI said it will be distributing free entry tickets for school and college students. The event will also be accessible by the differently-abled, who can access wheelchairs at the venue.