Unlike previous years, entry to the Hyderabad Book Fair, which opens on Saturday, is free

The Hyderabad Book Fair is back.

NTR Stadium will play host to the much-awaited event organised by the National Book Trust in coordination with Hyderabad Book Fair Society from December 7 (Saturday) to 15. Interestingly, entry to the fair will be free.

Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan will inaugurate the event at 5 p.m. on Saturday. The fair will be open between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

With the National Book Trust assuming the mantle of the organiser, the nominal entry fee of Rs. 5 per head has been waived. This is expected to attract more footfalls, with the sprawling stadium premises housing nearly 380 stalls, up from last year’s 250.

According to the organisers, the refusal by the authorities to allow the exhibition at its regular venue – People’s Plaza on Necklace Road – is a blessing in disguise, as the rent payable has come down significantly, allowing space for more publishers.

National Book Trust director M.A. Sikandar  said a 10 per cent blanket discount would be available on all books at the fair.

Book promotion centre

The National Book Trust will soon open a book promotion centre at Literacy House on Andhra Mahila Sabha premises

, he added.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Hyderabad / by Staff Reporter / Hyderabad – December 06th, 2013