Neyveli Book Fair Day 6: Galaxy of Dignitaries Grace Literary Evening; Eminent Writers Honoured Alongside High-Energy Folk Cultural Finale

The standard of literary excellence and community engagement reached new heights as the landmark Neyveli Book Fair successfully concluded its sixth day.

A major highlight drawing massive crowds over the last few days has been the "On-the-Spot" competitions organized for visiting school and college students, alongside general visitors. These interactive events have emerged as a significant draw, sparking healthy intellectual competition and creative enthusiasm within the book fair premises.

The formal proceedings for the evening’s literary events commenced at the "Lignite Hall". The prestigious function was presided over by Shri D.V.S.N. Murthy, Executive Director (Legal, GH & CSR), NLCIL.

The event was graced by distinguished guests Thiru Ara. Arularasu, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Villupuram Range, who was the Chief Guest and Prof. Dr. S. Arivudainambi, Vice-Chancellor of the historic Annamalai University, who was the Guest of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, Thiru Ara. Arularasu emphasized the importance of cultivating the habit of reading among children from an early age and encouraging them to imbibe good values at home. He noted that true awareness and character formation begin during the formative years of life. Highlighting the timeless relevance of the Thirukkural, he urged every household to possess a copy of the classic work. Describing books in an engaging manner, he observed that some books are meant to be glanced through, some to be read, and others to be deeply savoured and reflected upon. Recalling that many great leaders were also avid readers, he stated that books impart practical wisdom, teach the value of time, and instil noble virtues. Referring to the region as the sacred land where Saint Ramalinga Adigalar established the Sathya Gnana Sabha, he remarked that it was fitting for the Neyveli Book Fair to be celebrated with such enthusiasm in a place renowned for its rich legacy of knowledge and learning.

In his address, Dr. S. Arivudainambi highlighted the significance of developing a reading habit from a young age. He candidly shared that he had begun reading books relatively late in life, but the books he encountered profoundly transformed his outlook and personality. He recalled that the opening lines of Mahatma Gandhi’s book India of My Dreams, in which Gandhi describes India as a Karmabhoomi (land of action), inspired him to translate thoughts into meaningful action. Emphasizing the transformative power of books, Dr. Arivudainambi observed that books have the ability to influence individuals and even alter the course of society and history. He urged students and young readers to dedicate time to reading and draw inspiration from the wisdom contained in books. While acknowledging the extensive reach of the digital world in the present era, he pointed out that printed books continue to hold unique advantages that cannot be overlooked. Describing a good book as a faithful and lifelong companion, he encouraged everyone to nurture the habit of reading and lifelong learning.In line with the established, time-honored practice of the Neyveli Book Fair to recognize exceptional contributions to the world of letters and printing, two leading figures were felicitated: Eminent Writer Shri C. Annakodi was formally honored for his lifetime dedication and rich contribution to Tamil literature.

M/s. Gowra Pathippaga Kuzhumam, Chennai, a highly popular and widely respected publishing house, was honored for its remarkable services to the publishing ecosystem.

Adding fresh intellectual substance to the fair, two newly compiled books were officially unveiled and released by the dignitaries on stage - "Oru Thundu Rayil", an engaging anthology of short stories authored by the noted writer Shri Neyveli Bharathikumar (Senthil Kumar) and "Meynizhal", a thought-provoking book of short stories written by the talented author Shri M. Rajakumaran.

As a fitting culmination to an evening of profound literary discourse, the atmosphere shifted to a celebration of regional heritage. A highly anticipated Tamil folk music program took the stage, featuring the legendary and highly reputed Tamil folk singer Shri Pushpavanam Kuppusamy followed by popular artiste Chinnaponnu rendering authentic "Thamizh Isai" supported by the high-energy backing and lively synchronization of the junior singers from the celebrated Kalai Laya troupe. The musical performances sent the large audience into absolute raptures, bringing the sixth day to a successful close.