Book’s are both a source of recreation and gaining knowledge. A glimpse into the unknown world. A Journey through the ages. A medium to preserve and transfer ancient wisdom. India has a dearth of public libraries and community reading spaces but the new decision by Maharashtra government to inaugurate India’s first book village will make bibliophiles joyous.
Yes, you read that right. An entire village dedicated to books. This will be the first in India.
Bhilar, a tiny picturesque village in Satara district, will be India’s first book village. The concept is unique in India and is inspired from Hay-on-Way, a Welsh town known for bookstores and literature festivals. The tiny town of 10,000, also popular for its cherries, is near to popular tourist attraction Panchgani will be a soothing and serene reading spot.
25 locations around the village have been decorated including temples, houses and tourist destinations by over 75 artists. Around 15,000 books ranging from literature, history, biography to children’s books will be available for readers to read free of cost. Initially, all the books are in Marathi but the government plans to add Hindi and English books also later.
In order to enhance the reading experience, umbrellas, chairs, and tables have been installed at various places in the village. There are also plans to organize literature festivals and poetry reading events there.
Bhilar would be on the itinerary of every book enthusiast soon.
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