Book Fair
The 19th Karachi International Book Fair (KIBF) commenced on Thursday at the city’s Expo Centre, drawing book enthusiasts from various backgrounds.
With over 330 stalls set up in halls 1, 2, and 3, the event is set to captivate visitors for five days, running until December 16. The fair aims to promote a love for literature and reading while showcasing books from diverse genres and cultures.
During the inaugural ceremony, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah shared his personal love for books. “I enjoy buying books and sometimes borrow them from friends without returning them,” he joked, highlighting the unique joy of flipping through the pages of a book.
Accompanying him at the event were Sindh Education Minister Sardar Ali Shah and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab.
The book fair has garnered international participation, with 40 organizations from 17 countries displaying a vast collection of books.
Countries represented include Pakistan, India, Turkey, Singapore, China, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. This diverse participation underscores the event’s role as a platform for cultural and literary exchange.
Sindh Education Minister Sardar Ali Shah also addressed the audience, reflecting on the historical importance of knowledge and the written word.
He remarked on the decline of the Muslim world’s scientific and intellectual achievements, referencing the story of the great scientist Al-Ghazali, who, according to legend, was blinded after repeatedly being struck by books.
His remarks highlighted the symbolic power of books and their role in shaping civilizations.
The event has been designed to attract visitors of all ages, with children and adults equally drawn to the array of literary treasures.
The KIBF offers an unparalleled opportunity for book lovers to explore, purchase, and celebrate literature, making it a significant cultural event for Karachi and beyond.
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