Welcoming the Polish delegation, the President said, “it is heartening to note that Poland is the Guest Country—a country and culture with which we have close relations.” He was happy to note that an illustrated book for children, ‘Little Chopin’, on the legendary musical genius of Poland has been published by NBT in association with Polish Institute.

Observing that the focus of the fair on children’s literature, he said that “India has a long and rich tradition of literature as manifest in our folk and oral storytelling traditions, Panchatantra, mythologies, Puranas, Jataka tales. Even in the 20th century, our most eminent writers like Rabindranath Tagore and Premchand have all written for children.” Children, the President said, “are the best readers because they have no patience for pretence.”

“There are many fairs being held in Pragati Maidan. But this is unique because it is on children’s literature, and they are the future citizens of our country,” said Chandresh Kumari Katoch, Minister of Culture, Government of India. “India is a young country. Every third person in India is youth. Therefore it is imperative to give them the right education. Only the right kind of books can help them to face the growing challenges that come with the changing world,” she added. “Books,” she said, “have been an integral part of our society and culture and they have played a very important role in our lives,” and wished all the participants a great success in their endeavours.

Speaking on the occasion, Rita Menon, CMD, ITPO (Co-organiser of the Fair), expressed her happiness in working with

‘‘All for knowledge and knowledge for all’’

In a brief and rousing address, the President spoke on the importance of books and

book fairs and their contribution to the development of humanity and the creation of a knowledge-based society. “There is a great hunger for knowledge,” he said and further added that our motto should be “All for knowledge and knowledge for all.”

Happy to be inaugurating the New Delhi World Book

said Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Honb’le President of India, while appreciating the New Delhi World Book Fair 2014 as a manifestation and celebration of a liberal, democratic, multilingual, multicultural and secular society.

Fair 2014, the President said that the “NDWBF has played the twin role of cultural and business admirably,” and added “No human society can develop in all its dimensions without books. They carry the wisdom of generations. Book fairs are a source of multiple inspirations and remind us that history and tradition have celebrated the argumentative India and not an intolerant India.”

On the growing perception that the presence of internet and digital media books may take a backseat, “I believe the habit of reading books and printed material is inherent in human civilization and therefore they are here to stay,” he said to a thunderous applause. Also with the book industry recording a growth of 25-30% every year, reflects the growing importance of books.

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A new book of relationship begins between Poland and India with the inauguration of a dedicated pavilion to ‘Books From Poland’. Poland is the Guest of Honour Country at the 22nd

edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair; the occasion coincides with the 60th anniversary of Polish-Indian diplomatic relations.

‘Books From Poland’ pavilion inaugurated

Prof. Piotr Kłodkowski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to India, Ms. Katarzyna Kacperczyk, Secretary of State, Public and Economic Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, Ms. Małgorzata Omilanowska, Secretary of State, Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland; Grzegorz Gauden, Director of the Polish Book Institute, Anna Tryc-Bromley, Director of the Polish Institute, New Delhi in presence of Polish authors including Michał Rusinek, Olga Tokarczuk, Wojciech Jagielski, publishers Beata Stasi ska (Foksal Publishing Group), Magdalena D bowska (Polish Rights Agency), Jadwiga J dryas (Two Sisters – publishing house for children’s books) graced the occasion with their presence along with Shri A Sethumadhavan, Chairman, NBT and Dr M A Sikandar, Fair Director.

NBT in bringing this NDWBF to the book lovers at large. With this NDWBF, “We have put in place an important initiative, the first ever e-ticketing facility, where visitors can buy tickets online at the corporate website of ITPO.” Besides, ITPO and NBT have decided to showcase Indian books at all-India shows being organized by ITPO across the world, she said.

Referring to Poland, the Guest Country at the Fair, as a significant country in the European Union, Rita Menon said that Poland has one of the largest population of book lovers and has more than 50 UNESCO world heritage sites. Earlier, in her address, she welcomed the President and said that “the President is a great scholar and writer. He has been an inspiration for the youth of India.”

“I am here to celebrate children’s literature, but I would also like to celebrate Polish literature,” said Ruskin Bond, one of India’s most eminent and popular writers for children. He also referred to his early days of being influenced by Polish writings, and especially Joseph Conrad.

He recalled the days when in 1967 he visited a book fair organized by NBT, a small affair then, and over the years, today it has grown to be a major event with hundreds of publishers and hundreds and thousands of books.

Expressing her deep gratitude to the NDWBF for inviting Poland as the Guest of Honour Country, Ms Katarzyna Kacpercrzk, Secretary of State, Public and Economic Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, said, “This honour has given us a unique

opportunity to share with Indian friends our literature and culture. We have produced good writers and this has led to the intellectual development of Poland.”

The Guest of Honour Presentation coincides with the 60 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Poland. “But our relationship goes deeper and we have, over years developed many connections. In Poland, India is considered as one of the most important cultural centres,” she said. On behalf of the Government of Poland she expressed her deep gratitude for the Guest of Honour status.

“Indian writers are well known in Poland but not much of Polish literature is known in India,” said Ms Malgorzata Omilanowska, Secretary of State and Minister of Culture and National Heritage, Republic of Poland. “Focussed literary exchanges such as Guest of Honour programmes help us to be aware of each other’s literature and cultural heritage.” she added and extended her warmest congratulations to NBT, India for inviting Poland.

Shri Ashok Thakur, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development was also present on the occasion.

Earlier in his welcome address, Shri A. Sethumadhavan, Chairman, NBT India, expressed his deep gratitude to Pranab Mukherjee, Honb’le President of India, one of the India’s greatest statesmen and an avid reader of books, for gracing the occasion. In his address, Shri Sethumadhavan said that “the first ever NBT book exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the then

President of India in 1964. And over the years it has grown to be a major book event.”

Thanking the President for his gracious presence at the inauguration of the Fair, Dr. M.A. Sikandar, Director, NBT India, said, “The wisdom shared by our President will go a long way in

encouraging our efforts towards promotion of books and reading.” He also thanked the ITPO, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Sahitya Akademi, Doordarshan, all the publishers associations, authors, the media without whose efforts and cooperation the Fair would not have been possible.

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Singari Melam by Children, Kerala (Delhi Panchavadya Trust): Singari Melam is

a performance of percussionists executing movements while

playing complex rhythmic patterns on the chenda drums and elataalam or cymbals. Two rows of performers play each one side of the chenda drum. The row playing the edanthala or the right side of the drum moves towards the right, and the other playing the valanthala or the left

Tribal and folk performances staged side, moves towards the left. The elataalam players remain in the centre. Singari Melam initially accompanied the Kavadiyattam, in which processions of devotees

carried the kavadi on their shoulders.

Songs by Langa and Manganiyar Children, Rajasthan (Rupayan Sansthan, Jodhpur): The Langa and Mangniyar are communities of singers, known for their mesmeric music. They hail from districts that are part

of the Thar Desert. Woven into the fabric of village life, their songs and music have passed down from one generation to the next through an age-old oral tradition. The accompanying instruments used are the kamaicha, the dholak and the kartal, the harmonium as also the morchan.

Rai, Madhya Pradesh (Bundelilok Nritya Evam Natya Kala Parishad, Sagar): Rai is a dance form that celebrates the spring season in the Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh. It is a dance inspired by the Raasleela of Radha and Krishna. It is also believed that it was a part of celebrations on the return of a victorious army conveying the spirit of joy and exuberance of the common people.

Folk Music and Dance, Himachal Pradesh (Manimahesh Gaddi Sanskritik Kala Manch, Bharmour): Nati is the most popular form of dance and is performed by boys and girls together. The particular area it belongs to grants it a specific rhythm giving it its distinct features. Chamba is home to the Gaddi community that dances the Gaddi Nati.

Singari Dance and Chutkuchuta Nritya, Odisha

(Prativa Group, Odisha): The Singari Nritya and Chutkuchuta are tribal dances of Odisha. The Singari Nritya of the Kalahandi region expresses merriment during marriage celebrations. The dance takes place in the bajasal, an open space outside the house, where youngsters of the village gather to play musical instruments and sing through the night. The Chutkuchuta dance is part of the Jhangimada festival celebrated during Dussehra involving devotees walking over fire.

Hill Music of Manipur (Hao Music), Manipur (Guru Rewben Mashangva, Imphal): The songs of the Tangkhul Nagas, commonly known as Hao Nagas, celebrate nature. Although the songs are short, they hold description of every season; about rivers and hills; about heaven and the universe; and about harvesting. The bond between man and nature has always been deep. While bamboo is a part of day to day life and is used for constructing houses, creating furniture and also making utensils, it is also the material used to make musical instruments such as the tingtelia.

Executions of colourful tribal dances, songs and music are part and parcel of NDWBF 2014.

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GLOBALOCAL 2014, the 5th edition of GBO New Delhi’s exclusive forum for content, was successfully held from February 13-14, 2014 in New Delhi. Like in 2013, the focus this year was on

increasing one-on-one networking opportunities within the publishing and allied industries. The forum included a mix of roundtables, rights and licences training, business matchmakings, keynote presentations and networking breaks. GLOBALOCAL 2014 was attended by over 150 delegates and featured more than a dozen experts from around the world.

“Content is king” reiterates GloBAloCAl 2014

Taylor & Francis India is celebrating 10 years as a branch office in 2014. This decade, and the years preceding it as a liaison office, has been marked by an increasing engagement with the Indian

academic publishing space. Backed by a 216 years legacy of high quality content, they have catered to academic, professional and textbook markets s u c c e s s f u l l y merging local expertise with global networks in South Asia.

India today is the third largest market, after the US and UK, for Taylor & Francis globally. Their business is characterized by a balanced approach with

both print and online growing steadily. A plethora of new products, including over 5,000 new books, 1,800 journals and 45,000 ebooks as well as a backlist of over 60,000 titles, continue to make a mark in both STM and the Social Sciences.

You can visit their stand at NDWBF in Hall 12, Stall 70.

Taylor & Francis India celebrate 10 years

Claudia Kaiser of the Frankfurt Book Fair, Germany, kicked off the conference with a welcome address, followed by an opening keynote speech from marketing guru and managing partner, Counselage, India, Suhel Seth. He spoke of the social responsibility that books carry, touching upon the recent controversy over Wendy Doniger’s book. He felt that Penguin’s decision to capitulate was contemptible and irresponsible in this context. Books capture the evolution of society, he said, and more books lead to a more tolerant world. Next, Michael Healy, executive director, Copyright Clearance Center (CCC), New York, delivered a keynote address on exploring opportunities in new revenue sources in rights and licensing.

The CEOs’ Roundtable on “An Industry in Search of Its Identity” saw seven experts from publishing and allied fields lock horns over their perceptions about the shifting scene in content delivery and consumption. While, a workshop on “Marketing for the Future” addressed new market models and ideas in publishing, creative marketing techniques and innovative transmedia content strategies.

The second day started with a keynote speech by Linda Tan Lindgard on the “missing stories” of South East Asia. The region has a rich tradition of storytelling but it isn’t being heard. She pleaded with large publishers to create a space to encourage unusual, innovative content to “surprise and delight readers”. The roundtable was on STM (the umbrella term for science, technology and medical publishing), aptly titled “Icing on the Cake”. The panellists debated issues ranging from technology adoption and digitisation, copyright and piracy, the open access model and its implications, the challenges to technology adoption, and more. In the workshop on “Innovating Start-ups,” participants were guided as to how to decode the dynamics of a business plan with a unique approach. “In business, you have to be as specific as possible,” they said. “The clearer you are the better the solution.”

In a keynote presentation by Winnie Hung of HP Asia Pacific, Singapore, titled “Content Is King, but Not Inventory”, she spoke on new printing technologies, including short-run digital printing and print-on-demand, and how they can be used for better inventory management. The last slot was a keynote speech by Kevin Fitzgerald, chief executive of the Copyright Licensing Agency, UK, who spoke on “The Future of Global Licensing”.

The final session on both days comprised the Business Matchmaking meetings, where customised one-on-one ten-minute meetings were arranged to facilitate business opportunities.

Seminar on copyright and reprography

On the sidelines of the New Delhi World Book Fair 2014, the Indian Reprographic Rights Organisation (IRRO) is organizing a high level international Seminar on ‘Copyright and Reprography

-- Benefiting Creativity and Economic Growth’ to be held on February 17-18, 2014 at ‘Gulmohar’, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.

There would be distinct sessions on - Indian & International Perspective of IRRO; Economic Value Chain of Publishing with reference to Reprography; and Fair Dealing, Fair Use & Legal Issues in Reprography in the Indian Context.

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In tune with the changing technology currently sweeping across the educational

publishing, Repro India eventually introduces the country’s first tablet-based learning solution – RAPPLES. An eventful launch session titled Principals’ Knowledge Meets organised in collaboration with Times NIE in New Delhi marked the unpacking of Repro’s

tablet that comes pre-loaded with textbooks as chosen by schools or teachers.

Attended by more than 300 principals of various government and private schools from Delhi and NCR, Repro India presented RAPPLES amid persuasive speeches and applauds on the revolutionary multi-sensory

Repro India launches RAPPlES tablet of pre-loaded textbooks

learning device from the crowd and a panel of keynote speakers comprising chief guest Kiran Karnik, former president, NASSCOM; Pramod Khera, executive director, Repro India; Ravi Kukke, director-education solution, Microsoft Corporation; Sachin Gupta, chief IT officer, The Times of India, amongst others.

On the successful introduction of RAPPLES, Kiran Karnik conveyed that the concept of using video device to educate children in rural India via satellites was developed round 40 years back. He further mentioned the technology is now into a phase

of equity and excellence. In the context, Pramod stressed on RAPPLES being a ‘flipped classroom’ model, a blended learning process in which students learn new contents online via video lectures, etc. “Everything has revolutionised rapidly due to low conversion charges now,” he mentioned quoting as Bill Gates’ once said that putting a video online in the early 1990s cost $400 but now the same is possible at 2 cent.

For over the last two decades, Repro has been meeting the needs of the educational publishing across India, Africa, US and UK

which in turn helps them produce RAPPLES in form of a new challenge adapted by publishers and educators. “Textbooks on the RAPPLES are enhanced with animation, video, voice and music being loaded with features that make learning fun and teaching enriched,” explained Pramod adding, “We have keen steps to ensure that the process of adopting RAPPLES is minimally disruptive by providing existing printed books used by the schools as e-books, integrating existing methods of instruction and assessment into the technology platform and so on.”

RAPPLES available in different models priced

ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 are on display at Repro India’s Stand

11 in Hall 12 during the ongoing NDWBF, where a demonstrative sessions

using RAPPLES are conducted.

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Today’s cultural attraction: Sonchiraiya

Every folk song has a story to tell. Just as a reader reads a story or a novel and a focus is required, similarly, a viewer needs to have a similar patience to understand the folk song.

Therefore, it is relevant for us to perform at the NDWBF as it will give an opportunity to readers to see the folk dances from UP, says Malini Awasthi of Sonchiraiya, the star performers of the day.

From the lands of Ram, Krishna, Kabir and Khusrau, Uttar Pradesh brings to us a unique form of folk culture. It is bouquet of colorful flowers made from the music of Awadh and Brij which is a continuation of the Epic tradition, the music of Puravanchal and Bundelkhand which takes us back in history and the khadi boli tradition which brings us back to the contemporary times. “Sonchiraiya was formed five years ago to promote folk music and dance and give platform to folk performers. After establishing ourselves in UP, we are now spreading our wings in New Delhi,” tells Malini.

There would be following major performances: Pharwai is a traditional harvest song from Avadh which is sung by the peasants to commemorate the end of harvest season. Rai is an attractive folk song & dance form of Bediya community of Bundelkhand. It finds mention in Kishav’s Ramchandrika and Jayasi’s Padmavat. While, Brij bhoomi, the land of Radha – Krishna is famous for its Holi and in particular it’s Charkula dance. Charkula dance was performed first on the birth of Radha by her grandmother, Mukhre Deve. Karma is an enticing tribal folk form the region of Sonbhadra in Uttar Pradesh. It is a traditional way to invoke Goddess Sheetla Mata. While, Dhobiya is a wonderful mixture of folk theatre and music. It takes us to a journey of spiritualism and also of worldly affairs, best enacted by the SAWAAL JAWAAB between the dancers and musicians. While, Birha means yearning. It traces its history to the longing of Gopis for their beloved Krishna, who was mean to go away for long, leaving behind the pain of separation in their hearts. Birha is popular in Bhojpuri and Avadhi dialect not only in India but amongst the Indian diaspora abroad.

Ruskin Bond@NDWBF

Books and Ruskin Bond seem synonymous to book lovers. This veteran author was present at the NDWBF as Guest of Honour author. He spent a delightful day with the old and the young

and the not so young, furiously signing copies of books and getting photographed. It was touching to see so many young readers, those who had claimed to have read all his books, suddenly discovering a book that they had not read. Readers were happy to discover his book “At School with Ruskin Bond” which contained account of his school days, with some rare photographs. To a reader who wanted tips on being a good writer, Ruskin simply said, “Read more and more.”

The renowned author spent considerable time at the Ratna Sagar stall, which is one of the earliest publishers of Ruskin Bond after his early writings in Target and being briefly published by Thomson Press.

I have two kids…they both love books. Moreover, my husband loves to invest in books rather than toys. So, I have to be here at book fair. This time, it is really wonderful to see so much of children’s literature.

- Enam K Makhija, Delhi

A good book is like a great friend. Being a school teacher, I

have seen, books influencing young minds. They can learn a lot through books. At our school, we put lot of efforts to bring students close

to books. That is the reason we are regular at NDWBF with our school group.

- Shalini, teacher, Alchon International School

I love Ruskin Bond! I have read many of his stories, and I liked ‘Famous Five’ the most. I feel so happy to meet him, greet him and get a book autographed.

- Vyomesh, Student

Visitors' ViewsFor the first

time, NDWBF has been executed in a beautiful manner, even NBT office has got new corporate look.

- Prof. J P Sharma,Professor of Law & Corporate

Goverance, Dean Faculty of Commerce and Businesss, DSE, Department of Commerce, University of Delhi

I read no books, but I am regular to all book fairs….I am here to promote Holy Bible.

- Barbara, England

I am an author from Netherlands, and I visited this NDWBF for the first time and I am amazed to see so many books. It’s endless…as I am 76 years old, I can’t exert myself more…so I have to visit again to discover the vast book world.

- Elizabeth, author, Netherlands

Rajkamal releases titles from PolandAt New Delhi World Book Fair 2014, Rajkamal Prakashan is

launching three titles from Poland, translated into Hindi. The first book called Shanenshah has been translated by Prakash

Dixit from the original version Ryszard Kpuscinski. The second one titled Aanchal Prant has been translated by Maria Puri and Monica Browarcyzk from the original version Tales of Galicia. While, the third book Kamra Aur Anya Kahaniyan has been translated by Monica Puri from the original Szafa.

Seminar on Emerging Trends in Publishing

On February 21, FICCI is organizing a seminar on Emerging Trends in Book Publishing: New Models for the Market at FICCI, Federation House, New Delhi. The seminar will bring together

experts from different publishing verticals to share, discuss and debate emerging trends in book publishing. Key highlights would include emergence of new distribution models in book publishing, technology in education and the future of Indian publishing: author’s perspective.

8Children books in India: the hidden treasureIndian children books are a hidden treasure, which not many are aware of. Here, popular children author Subhadra Sen Gupta shares her viewpoint on the same.

Talk to any writer or illustrator for children’s books in India and they

will have this experience to share. Every time they meet children, parents, teachers or librarians they are asked this identical question, “Where can we get your books? The book shops don’t have them.” Perhaps the only writer who does not face this query is our beloved and legendary Ruskin Bond.

If you checked out the few inches on bookshop shelves where they stack Indian books you would think we do not publish children’s books; when in fact we are producing many beautifully illustrated and sensitively written ones. Puffin, Rupa, Scholastic, Tulika, Pratham, Katha, Tara

Subhadra Sen Gupta

have books that children, parents and teachers are looking for and recently I discovered the comic books by Campfire and those on the environment by TERI that should be in every bookshop. These books are produced for Indian children - they describe

experiences that they understand and they explore issues that they face. All we need now is for them to be able to access them.

As a battle scarred veteran of the children’s writing

world, the first battle we writers and illustrators

had to fight was to get publishers to take us

seriously as professionals. All they wanted was books

on mythology and folk tales. They would look shocked if

one brought up the topic of an advance payment and none of them hired editors who specialised on children’s books. Thankfully those days are over but now the battle is to get the dealers and booksellers to take us seriously. Also to get the sales and marketing department of large publishing houses to have executives assigned to children’s books. Right now, these books are part of their forgotten list that is rarely given any marketing support. May be the answer lies in online sales through websites like Flipkart. I always tell the children to look there.

The only publishing house that understood that children’s books need a different marketing strategy was Scholastic. They went directly to schools all across India with a brilliant combination of book fairs and events with writers and illustrators and they also started a popular book club. These book weeks get children excited about reading and create awareness among adults. To focus on reaching children and schools directly we need marketing people who are willing to think out of the box.

Another desperate need is for a good children’s magazine. Most of the writers and illustrators

who are working today honed their skills in the 1990’s in magazines like Target, JS and Youth Times. Writing for young people requires some unique skills like the ability to think visually and understand how to engage the minds of different age groups. Writing for a nine year old is very different from communicating with a teenager and for that, the experience with a magazine is very useful. Not enough young writers are writing for children today because there are no real incentives for them and that is a matter of great sadness.

I visit schools and listen to children all the time and there is a real need for books that address their unique interests. They want to know more about their country, not through textbooks but in well written, illustrated and designed books. We need information books on Indian history, the environment, even sports, theatre, arts, music and dance. However, for that publishers need to invest in good illustrations, design and production so that the books can compete visually with those from the west and most are unwilling to do so.

The popularity of children’s literature festivals like Bookaroo and Kahaani in Delhi and Bookalore in Bangalore is very welcome and these festivals have begun to move from the metro cities to smaller towns where children have no access to good books. I’m just waiting for the day when our books are found on racks in rural marketing centres, on pavements and sold at railway station stalls. Ah well, there is no harm in dreaming!

9Purple Turtle steals many hearts at New Delhi World Book Fair 2014

Purple Turtle, licensed by Aadarsh Pvt Ltd, is the cutest Turtle, which is offering innovative and interesting Purple Turtle books at Hall 7G, booth 23. Purple Turtle books, toys, games, tools

and other educational materials help parents and teachers to create a beautiful educational environment that fosters creativity, independence of thought, a positive self image, and an environment of joy and spirit.

According to NK Krishnanand, head- licensing and publishing, Purple Turtle, “New Delhi World Book Fair 2014 is the ultimate platform to showcase our books, toys, games and other educational materials. It is a massive fair where thousands of companies from all over the world participate and present their own discovery in the education field at the fair. Our participation at this fair will definitely bring more glories to Purple Turtle as a brand and it will positively win many hearts. “

Panel discussion by AABCAfro-Asian Book Council is going to organize a panel discussion on

‘Print Books in Upcoming E-books in Afro-Asian Countries’ on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at NDWBF. The panel comprises

of Vijithayapa, Dayo Alabi, Dr Ramachandran, SK Khurana, Kailash Balani, and Ramesh Mittal. The discussion will be moderated by Dr Terry O’Brien.

Seminar on e-publishing

Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan and National Book Trust, India in collaboration with the Academie des Deutschen Buchhandels and German Book Office New Delhi is organizing

a seminar on e-Publishing in hall 7, first floor, Pragati Maidan. on February 19. The concept of the seminar is specifically tailored to publishing companies in India, and is aimed at publishers and publishing staff who wish to develop and expand their knowledge of digital publishing. The programme has been designed by the Akademie des Deutsche Buchhandels (Academy of German Book Trade). This Munich based organization is specialized in innovative programmes for the training and development of managers and employees in the publishing and media industries.

Dr. Harald Henzler and Fabian Kern have been invited to present a day-long seminar to take place during the New Delhi World Book Fair. Dr. Harald Henzler is the founder and managing director of smartdigits. While, Fabian Kern is the managing director, Digital Publishing Competence.

Gaming pavilion at london Book Fair 2014

The London Book Fair (LBF) has recently announced a brand new sector on this year’s show floor: Gaming @ LBF. The new pavilion, supported by UK Interactive Entertainment (Ukie), the

UK’s premier trade body representing the gaming industry, is designed to connect the creative and commercial talents of gaming developers, publishers and distributors with their publishing counterparts. The

initiative is one of several new areas (TV & Film, Brand Licensing and Comics) that capitalise on the continued convergence

between aligned creative industries to exploit IP across a multiplicity of platforms.

Exhibitors within the Gaming sector will be invited to matchmaking sessions in the Ukie lounge with publishers, organised by LBF’s Rights Relationship Manager. In addition, a dedicated seminar stream will inform and entertain, as leaders and innovators from the gaming and publishing industries talk about what makes for successful cross-industry collaboration and commerce.

The London Book Fair will be held at Earls Court, London from April 8-10, 2014.

Delhi Book Store gets set to showcase myriad range

One of the comfy corners where mass of visitors pour in to get a grab on some new titles on soil, life science, mechanics and others in Hall 12 is Delhi Book Store (DBS). The company’s main

intention this year is to present visitors the widest array of books which this mega book store cum publisher could offer. In this respect, Prabhat

Kumar Choudhary, editor, Delhi Book Store (DBS) mentions that NDWBF 2014 is quite strategic for the reason that its show schedule comprising two Saturdays and two Sundays welcomes students and gives working professionals a golden chance to drop in at the show on those holidays.

The French connect...

After the presence of France as the Guest Country in NEWBF 2013, the French Book Office is present at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2014 at Stand 26, Hall 7 A, B, C. Visitors can

find the latest collection of French books across fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, art, fashion, lifestyle, comic books and graphic novels, photography, cookbooks and more!

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What makes a good children book? (PART-II)A children book should have the ability to attract and entice the audience, it should have content relevant to the reader; it should be a guide, a friend and a companion for a child. So, what makes a good children book, finds Varsha Verma in conversation with a few children book publishers.

A book is a complete package, as Radhika Manon of Tulika Books

puts it, “A well-written story, imaginative illustrations, good design and good production have to come together to make a good book that is a delight to read, to look at and to hold. Very often in children’s books there seems to be a focus on just one or two of these aspects.”

“The most important attribute is that it should not talk down to the child. It should also not preach or be didactic. Otherwise the attributes would be the same as those for any book - it should be well-written and of the highest quality that it can be. Children deserve the best and we should not give them lesser books just because they are shorter than us,” laughs Anushka Ravishankar, a well known children books author.

While Himanshu Giri, CEO, Pratham Books, adds, “That would depend on the genre of course but broadly, it should be attractive to look at and have a story that is engaging for a child. It should avoid overt messages and moralising and resist the urge to 'educate' the child as if she knows nothing. It should encourage reflection and introduce the possibilities of language.”

“Nita Mehta is the founder of our publishing house and because of her close interaction with women (she is India's No 1 Cookbook author and also heads many cooking institutes and restaurants) she understands

that parents want their children to understand the Indian value system. Through our books, we try to educate and entertain children at the same time. Our company motto is 'Inculcating Values & Wisdom' and the company tag line is 'Enriching Young Minds,” adds Anurag Mehta of Nita Mehta Publishing. “Children books need to be entertaining, and should also have a subtle message which the child can relate to. It should be educative without the child knowing that he is being taught,” he adds.

While Rajneesh Chowdhry of Goodwill Books, adds, “A children book should concentrate on easy and stress-free comprehension. Its language should be child-friendly, and it should be so designed as to readily attract a kid's attention towards itself. It should stay true to the fact 'learning in a stressless, fun way.' We serve our readers differently as we don't compromise on quality and strive to produce the best quality books consisting authentic and reliable information. We believe in the principle ‘Education for all’, and hence we provide our books at affordable prices,” adds Rajneesh.

While, Himanshu says, “We are a ‘not for profit’ publishing house and thus keep our ears close to the ground. We create attractive, well produced books for children at an affordable price in different Indian languages that we hope children will pick up on their own in their school or community libraries and enjoy the experience. If they do that, their reading

skills will be strengthened and hopefully this will lead to a better shot at education. If the children become independent readers they can also become autonomous learners.”

While Sahil Gupta of V& S Publishers adds, “The content, the presentation and innovative thinking differentiates us from other publishers. Another out-of-the-box creation is our caricature style illustrations in our children’s books. That too in black and white, instead of the usual clamour for colour productions. We continue to create novel concept to draw attention of children as well as parents.”

It’s not just the story and illustrations that matter, font is important too. “The font size should be large enough to hold a child’s attention. Thereafter comes the utility part of the book. It should be meaningful, simple to read and understand. It should convey respect to Indian tradition and culture,” adds Sahil.How to choose the right book…

Choosing the right book is very subjective. “The first step is for parents and teachers to keep themselves informed about the books on the market as more and more good publishers are emerging. This in itself is a difficult task as bookstores are no longer an option, as they are not interested in keeping good Indian books. Going online too is not an option for everyone,” tells Radhika. Schools can play a significant role in creating an awareness of what good books are available by building up their

libraries, organizing book events, author readings and book fairs. Librarians have to be trained to select good books so that they become pivotal in creating this awareness. “The RTE act making school libraries mandatory and the CBSE and NCERT putting out recommended lists of books are welcome and much needed initiatives by the government in this direction. More than a hundred of Tulika’s titles are included in the recommended lists. These lists have become a starting point for schools to build up their libraries,” adds Radhika smilingly.

Rajneesh says that teachers and parents play a very crucial role in selecting the books for their kids. “They should ensure that their kids read authentic and carefully produced books inculcating in them not only knowledge but values also. They should develop in the kids good and healthy reading habits during the formative years to ensure a lifelong inclination towards reading,” he adds. Similar views were shared by Sahil, who adds, “Parents/teachers need to look for books that they believe carries wisdom and knowledge for children in an easy and simple language. The books should be such that children can read on their own and draw meaningful conclusions. The guardians should encourage children with activity books; drawing pictures and colouring them and other playful activities builds confidence in children and makes them extrovert. To help children in out-of-the-box thinking, give them something new and uniquely created in a novel way.”

11“While choosing the book, the

first and foremost thing is that it should be attractive for the child. A book of great information will not be of any value if it does not interest the child and attract to be read. Thus as publishers our responsibility is to package good content in child friendly attractive manner,” adds Anurag. While, Anushka elaborates, “Let the children choose. The best way to put children off reading is by forcing them to read things that don't interest them!”

Similar views were shared by Himanshu who says, “We'd like to request parents and teachers to listen to children better. Children should have the freedom to choose from the widest selection and can be trusted to choose the books that have genuine integrity of communication. Parents and teachers should resist the urge to 'teach' and educate their children through their selection as this is likely to put off children from reading altogether.”

Besides, Mudit Mohini of Vishv Books also shares important points, “Choose books that reflect your child’s concerns, such as fear of the dark or some classmate. These books help children realize that their feelings are normal and that they’re not alone. These books also help your child learn how to handle their anxiety in a positive way. On repeated readings the book should offer fresh revelations or details that may not have been caught the first time through. And quite simply, not all ‘old’ books are classics! Just because we have loved them doesn't mean that they are still relevant.”

“SHOW DAILY” – official newsletter during New Delhi World Book Fair 2014 – February 15-23, 2014, is jointly published by Director, National Book Trust (NBT), India & All About Book Publishing (AABP). Editorial Team: NBT – Binny Kurian, Kanchan Wanchoo Sharma; Production –R Shahjahan. AABP – Varsha Verma, Smita Dwivedi , Jyaneswar laishram, Shailendra Kumar, Sunita Arora, H Pandey, Sandeep Verma.

Printed at Kaveri Print Process Pvt. Ltd., 114, Patparganj Industrial Area, Delhi – 110 092. Disclaimer: The views expressed in the signed articles do not necessarily reflect the official views of the NBT and AABP.

The Theme Pavilion Kathasagara: Celebrating Children’s Literature

was inaugurated by Shri Ashok Thakur, Hon’ble Secretary, Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development. On the occasion, he also released two catalogues published by NBT titled A Tale of Tales which provides a glimpse on various forms of Indian children’s literature; and Children’s Books 2014: An Annotated Catalogue of Select Children’s Books in India in which about 800 books in English, Hindi and all Indian languages have been detailed. Shri A. Sethumadhavan, Chairman, NBT India, Ms VeenaIsh, Joint

Kathasagara: Celebrating Children’s literature

Secretary, Book Promotion, Ministry of HRD, and Dr. M.A. Sikandar, Director, NBT India, were also present.

Shri Ruskin Bond visited the Theme Pavilion. Expressing his happiness on visiting the Fair and meeting curious readers of all age groups, he said, “It is great to see intelligent and bright people around in the World Book Fair. Intelligence and brightness comes from reading books. If you read books you can become writer. Do open the books.” On asking about his books Tigers and Tuskers and his love for the animal he said, “Tigers do scare me, I’m much happier with small cats.” He added, “Tigers represent India and we need to conserve them”. Ruskin Bond also had a photo session with children present.

Shri M.A. Sikandar, Shri M. Ramachandran, Director, Asian Festival of Children’s Content, Singapore, Shri Shashi Shetye, renowned illustrator among others were also present on the occasion.

During the day, several activities for children were organised at the Theme Pavilion including an interactive session with Ms Joelle Jolivet, illustrator and Ms Kathika Nair, author of the book Meet the Honey Hunters; a street play Kitaabe Karti Hai Baatein. A panel discussion on Indian Children’s Literature and Dr Harekrishna Devsare was organised at the Pavilion in which Ms Madhu Pant, Shri Vimlesh Verma, Ms Surekha Panadiker and Shri Dinesh Mishra participated. They discussed about the contribution of Dr Devsare to Indian children’s literature. Smt. Shipra, daughter of Harekrishna Devsare, said that they are in the process of launching a website www.bachcha.com which will make available all of Devsare’s writings digitally.

In the evening, an informal interaction with Ms Kshama Sharma and Ms Durga Bai Vyam, and Suresh Vyam, internationally renowned Gond artists, was organised.

Before choosing the book for your child, think again – is it the best for

your child?

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Urdu language was born out of the Indian soil in an ‘Army Tent’, it actually

means the same. It is a language of love and had inspired millions to make sacrifices in the long drawn out freedom struggle and remained most popular language for centuries together. Here’s more interesting information about promotion, propagation and development of Urdu language and literature.

To start with, here are a few facts and statistics about Urdu language as shared by Anis Azmi. There are over 100 Urdu medium MCD schools; 15 NDMC schools and around 15 private schools in Delhi and three universities – Delhi University, Jamia Milia Islamia and JNU offers higher studies in the same language. And Urdu literate population is present everywhere in India, except North-East. So, there is always a demand for Urdu publications. Moreover,

"Urdu is not a language of Hindu or Muslim… it is a language of love and affection"says Anis Azmi, secretary, Urdu Academy

Delhi being the cradle of this language, legislative assembly has passed Delhi Official Language Bill 2000 giving Urdu as the status of second official language of Delhi.

On asking about the inception tale of the Urdu Academy, Anis shared, “There was a long felt need to have an apex body to preserve and nurture the rich heritage of Urdu language. With these objectives in view, the then Delhi administration established Urdu Academy in May, 1981 under the chairmanship of Lt Governor of Delhi for the promotion, propagation and development of Urdu language and culture as an integral part of Delhi. With the passage of time, the academy has made its identity as a premier Urdu literary, cultural and educational institution in Delhi. Ever since its inception, the Academy is implementing all its schemes with certain improvements every year and has

been playing a catalytic role in the promotion of the lingual, literary and cultural activities in Urdu world.”The books…

“Urdu has a strong influence on Muslim culture. And when we talk about most published book…it’s The Holy Quran, which is always in demand. It is the only book, which is available in 114 languages of the world. There are innumerable publishers of Quran in India and they keep minimum profit margin; still it is a profitable venture. And Muslims remain attached to this language as they relate to it more.”

“The academy has printed over 200 titles till now and every year publish 10-15 new writers’ books as well. We provide financial assistance to publish creative writing for the needy Urdu writers. Our books are always in demand in various universities and libraries. Scholars and researchers await our books,” he added.

Being a government publication, the concern is more on content than on profit. “We have several books on history of Delhi, we are the only one to have complete documentation of Delhi from Pandavs’ era to 1919. Most of our books are reprinted with its 12th, 17th or 18th edition, which itself is a proof that our books are always in demand. Marketing of our books is never a difficulty; some of our books get sold within a month.”The periodicals…

The Urdu Academy also brings out two monthly periodicals titled Aiwan-e-Urdu and Bachchon Ka Mahanama Umang. Publication

of these magazines was started in 1987. Today, the circulation of both these magazines has reached 25000 copies. This is a regular feature. “UGC considers Aiwan-e-Urdu as a great literary work and it becomes proud for scholars to get published in it,” he added with a smile. House of precious books…

Urdu Academy's Dara Shikoh Library is a must visit place, especially for the research scholars. Academy purchases about 300 books every year. At present, this library has a precious collection of 45,000 books. The academy intends to convert it into a National Urdu Library. “The PhD in Urdu language is never completed without thanking our library,” he shared proudly.Promoting reading…

Talking about readership issue, he shared that there is a large Urdu speaking population in India, who are not exposed to electronic media in any sense. So, they depend on books, magazines and newspapers. “We have places in J&K, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Chennai, where Urdu literature is much in demand,” he shared.

Moreover, the academy established about 300 Urdu Literacy Centers in the various parts of Delhi in which about 4,000 learners have been enrolled. Moreover, they have also created newspaper corners in mohallas and bastis, which is a regular activity every month. At present, 47 Corners are established in various parts of Delhi. For the promotion of language and sale of books, they do participate in several book fairs.

An evening of poets and poetry

Aalami Media Pvt Ltd and National Book Trust, India organised an evening of poets and poetry. A Quraterly ‘Aawame Jayza’ and pocket books were released at the event in hall 7.

13

Bharti College organised a speech programme at in Hall 18 on the topic ‘Social Media: Chu-nautiyan Aur Sambhavnae.’ The speakers to the programme included Dr Ramesh Yadav, Kaushlendra Pann and Manju Sharma including the students who competed with their mates and the best student speaker won prize of books.

Authors' Corner

Reflections: Anupama Chopra's book "Freez Frames" released and a book discussion session was held by Om Books International.

Lekhak Munch: Vimlesh Kanti Verma, Harjendra Chaudhary, Leeladhar Mandloi, Suresh Rituparn, Narain Kumar & Rakesh Pandey discussing on the topic "Pravasi Sahitya Kitna Pravasi" organised by Pravasi Sansaar Patrika.

Reflections: Christopher C Doyle, author of "The Mahabharata Secret" in conversation with Dipa Chaudhari & Ipsita Sengupta of Om Books International.

The rise of Indian publishing has marched in lockstep with the rise of a new era of Indian writers. Writing in English and other Indian languages, they are today transforming India’s literary

landscape. Indian writers are commanding global attention and interest with their works being translated into many foreign languages.

The Fair is hosting more than 100 authors, established and emerging, in over 300 sessions to converse, reflect and interact with their readers.

Today the following authors interacted with the audience at the Authors’ Corners: Anupama Chopra, popular film critic; Christopher C Doyle, author of Mahabharata Secret; Hindol Sengupta, Senior Editor, Fortune in conversation with Ashutosh, well known journalist; Aruna Chakravarty, well known academic and writer; Saba Mahmood Bashir, freelance editor; Karan Verma, writer; and O.P. Singh, IG, Police, Chandigarh in conversation with Deepti Malik, Padma Shri awarded paraplegic athlete.

14Events Today

Polish Pavilion : Hall No. 7

Seminars & Discussions: Hall Nos. 7, 8, 14 & 18

Authors' Corner: Conversations, Hall No. 12

Events at Sahitya Manch: Hall No. 8

Events at the Kidz Bubble: Hall No. 7

Authors' Corner: Reflections, Hall No. 10-11

Theme Pavilion, Hall No. 7 E Kathasagara: Celebrating Children's Literature

Desaj: Festival of Tribal and Folk Performing Arts of India