Bengali literature readership declining in both Bengal and Bangladesh: Shankha Ghosh

Kolkata, Nov 3: The readership of Bengali literature has been steadily declining in both West Bengal and Bangladesh, with students turning their back on writings in the language, Jnanpith awardee poet Sankha Ghosh said here on Friday.

Inaugurating the third edition of the Apeejay Bangla Sahitya Utsob, the two-time Sahitya Akademi winner said literary festivals were an effective tool to reverse the trend.

"It is true that the readership of Bengali literature has seen a steady decline. The same thing happened in Bangladesh too where students of schools and colleges are turning their back on Bengali writings.

"But hopefully there are still some enthusiasts. Initiatives like this focuse on increasing the enthusiasm among people," he said after opening the festival by lighting the lamp.

Lauding the festival, Ghosh said it was an important initiative to encourage readers of Bengali literature.

"I love coming here. It is good that the festival is growing," he said.

In a bid to evoke interest among the young bibliophiles and encourage the enthusiasts, the festival this year has introduced a host of youth-centric events and increased its span to three days.

About the present situation of Bengali literature, renowned author Sanjib Chattopadhyay said writers should stop worrying about book sales and pen their creations with a free mind to produce good writings.

"Every good writer works with his own theme. To produce good literature one has to set his mind free and be a part of his own story. Then and only then his efforts are rewarded. An author cannot write thinking about what the readers would like and how many copies of his writing would sell," Chattopadhyay said.

The inaugural session of the festival, organised by Oxford Bookstores in association with Patra Bharati, was also graced by leading Bengali novelist Imdadul Haq Milon.

Hailing the enthusiasm of people over the last two years of the literary festival, the organisers said they have introduced a host of youth centric activities in this edition to attract the young people to the treasure trove of Bengali literature.

"Special focus has been given this year towards engaging the youths by introducing two musical performances and a photography competition to showcase one's love for reading," said Swagat Sengupta, Festival Director and CEO Oxford Bookstores.