CHENNAI: The 49th Chennai Book Fair, organised by the Book Sellers and Publishers Association of South India (BAPASI), concluded on a high note at the YMCA grounds in Nandanam on January 21, with around 20 lakh visitors and sales of about 50 lakh books over 13 days.
Speaking to DT Next, BAPASI president RS Shanmugam said that the fair witnessed strong public response, aided by free entry.
“Even on weekdays there was heavy footfall with around 15-20 lakh visitors totally. Of the one crore books displayed at the fair, nearly half were sold,” he added.
Publishers expressed satisfaction over the sales and the turnout, particularly the participation of youngsters and families. Shanmugam said the association was encouraged by the response and would begin preparations early, as the coming year would mark the golden jubilee of BAPASI. He added that there were plans to introduce international publications in the next edition of the fair.
Visitors too shared positive feedback. James Kirubagaran, a first-time visitor, said, “I came to the fair because my friends recommended it, and I loved it.”
A major attraction at this year’s fair was the Aadhaar enrolment and updation stall set up by BAPASI, which drew people across age groups. Manohar, a resident of Thyagaraya Nagar, said, “Services such as biometric correction and spelling changes usually required visits to post offices, involving long waits and time off work, but the stall offered a more convenient alternative.”
M Thanigaivel, a student of YMCA College of Physical Education, concurred and added: “Private centres charged over Rs 200, while the stall charged Rs 125 for biometric and iris updation. My college needed upgradation of Aadhaar biometrics to avail scholarships. So this stall was very useful.”