Maharashtra CM Fadnavis to inaugurate Pune Book Festival on December 14

The festival will feature a diverse collection of books, spanning genres like fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s literature, self-help, and academic works. Readers can explore titles in all Indian languages alongside major global languages, making it a paradise for multilingual bibliophiles.

A lineup of literary figures, including vice-chancellors, authors, poets, editors, and artists, will take centre stage for panel discussions, book launches, and cultural performances. Activities for children, such as storytelling workshops, will also be a part of the vibrant schedule.

With its inclusive programming, cultural exchanges, and focus on promoting knowledge and heritage, the Pune Book Festival 2024 aims to reinforce Pune’s reputation as a thriving hub of intellectual and cultural activity.

National Book Trust to shift office to Pune

Pune is all set to deepen its literary roots, with the National Book Trust (NBT) deciding to shift its Mumbai office to the city. BJP MLA Chandrakant Patil said this at the inauguration of the Pune Book Festival office and the groundbreaking ceremony for exhibition stalls at the FC College ground last month.

The book fest is expected to draw 7.5 lakh visitors, according to the organisers.

“With Marathi being recognised as a classical language, this festival is a celebration of our rich literary heritage,” said Patil. “NBT is working to ensure Marathi literature reaches more readers across the country and beyond.

Rajesh Pandey, festival organiser, expressed excitement about the growing public participation. “This event isn’t just for a select few—it belongs to every book lover in Pune. Last year, we had 200 stalls. This time, we’re aiming for three times that number from last year.

NBT director Yuvraj Malik also highlighted how Pune will play a pivotal role in broadening the reach of Marathi literature. “Our new office here will focus on translating Marathi books into other languages. This is just the beginning of a journey to make Marathi stories resonate across cultures,” Malik said.