Arad Fort turns out to be a book lovers’ paradise
Manama : Featuring over 400 publishers from 26 countries with books ranging from children’s literature to Islamic culture, thousands of people from various walks of life are expected to attend the 18th Bahrain International Book Fair that started at Arad Fort Wednesday.
“We are expecting nearly 100,000 visitors over a span of 11 days,” Haya Al-Sada, Head of Cultural Affairs for Bahrain Authority of Culture and Antiquities, told DT News.
Apart from offering a wide range of literary genres, mostly in Arabic and also featuring some English stalls, the venue also offers a kids corner introducing them to the delights of arts and crafts as well as an event hall hosting cultural discussions and book signing on a daily basis. Students from 12 schools across the country have also signed up to attend the event. “It will be a cultural experience for the entire family,” said Haya Al- Sada.
Saudi Arabia is the Guest of Honor for the fair this year. The culture and heritage of the kingdom are highlighted through musical performances from Saudi Arabia. A gallery of photographs, some dating back to a century, depicting close ties between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia is also on display.
Yesterday, the event hall was occupied by children eager to get their hands on a copy of the classical children story collection “Fables across Time: Kalila and Dimna”, re-illustrated and simplified by author Dr Sabiha Al Khemir.
“Written in Sanskrit over 2,000 years ago, these fables have stood the test of time,” author and Islamic specialist, Sabiha Al Khemir told DT News.
Translated for the first time in Persian during the 6th century, the classic story which originated in India has survived generations and has been translated into over 50 languages across the world.
“In the Islamic world, many have grown up listening to these stories,” said Sabiha Al Khemir.
“When I came to Bahrain and spoke to people about the book I realized this has been an important part of their childhood,” the Tunisian author said.
Sabiha Al Khemir retold the stories in Arabic as well as in English. “It’s nice to connect a classic story with a modern touch,” she said.
Currently residing in New York, Sabiha Al Khemir said the publication of the book was a milestone for New York-based publisher American Folk Art Museum. “When published in 2017, the book became their first ever publication in Arabic and English,” said Sabiha Al Khemir.
Dubai based seller, Blackstone and Holywell provided a unique range of books on Islam and the Arab world.
“The Muslim world is a treasure and needs to be perceived with a fresh perspective,” said specialized bookseller Idris Mears.
With over 1,500 titles, Blackstone and Holywell has books on geography, history, theology, aspects culture, art cooking and many more related to Islamic World and Culture.
This is the first time Blackstone and Holywell publications have participated in the Bahrain International Book Fair. “I’m sure I’ll like to return for the next fair,” said Idris Mears.
VIVA Bahrain’s corporate social responsibility arm - VIVA Jusoor is the golden sponsor for the fair providing free high-speed broadband coverage to all booksellers.
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