The recent book fair in Lahore, Pakistan, was meant to be a celebration of literature and culture. However, it seems that the attendees had different priorities as the focus shifted from books to food stalls. According to reports, only 35 books were sold at the fair, while over 1,200 shawarmas and 800 plates of biryani were consumed by the visitors.
Lahore, known as the cultural and literary center of Pakistan, has a rich history of intellectual and literary activities. It is the birthplace of renowned authors such as Saadat Hasan Manto and Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Therefore, it is somewhat ironic that a book fair in this city would see such a low turnout in book sales.
The dominance of food over books at the Lahore book fair was highlighted in a report by Asia News Network. While only a handful of books were purchased, the food stalls were bustling with activity, selling a large number of shawarmas. This disparity did not go unnoticed by social media users, with some expressing disappointment in Lahore’s apparent decline in literary interest.
Many attributed the low book sales to the pricing factor. Books at the fair were priced higher compared to the affordable and delicious food options available. Some Reddit users pointed out that a plate of biryani or shawarma cost significantly less than a book, making it a more appealing choice for many attendees. The affordability and variety of food options seemed to overshadow the literary offerings at the fair.
The incident at the Lahore book fair sparked discussions about the reading culture in Pakistan. While some lamented the lack of interest in books, others found humor in the unexpected focus on food at a literary event. The contrast between the meager book sales and the bustling food stalls shed light on the changing priorities of attendees at cultural events.
Overall, the Lahore book fair serves as a reminder of the evolving cultural landscape in Pakistan. While the city has a rich literary heritage, the preference for food over books at the fair reflects the shifting interests of the public. It raises questions about the promotion of literature and the challenges faced in cultivating a reading culture in a society where other forms of entertainment take precedence.