Recent reports claiming that only 35 books were sold at a book fair in Lahore, Pakistan, have sparked a debate over the state of the country’s reading culture. These viral allegations suggested that the event, instead of promoting literature, became more about food, with attendees reportedly purchasing over 1,200 shawarmas and more than 800 plates of biryani.
The controversy gained momentum after Pakistani actor Khalid Inam shared the information on social media, although he later admitted to BBC Urdu that he did not verify the accuracy of the claims. This lack of confirmation has led to confusion and a variety of responses from the public.
Local reports indicate that the Lahore book fair, a notable cultural event in a city renowned for its literary heritage, indeed faced challenges. The claim that only 35 books were sold contrasted sharply with the thriving food stalls at the fair, raising eyebrows among attendees and social media users alike.
The False Claims and Public Reaction
An article from Asia News Network reported that food sales overshadowed book purchases, with only 35 books sold during the event. This figure has drawn criticism, especially considering Lahore’s historical reputation as a literary hub. Social media users expressed their disappointment, seeing this situation as a reflection of a declining reading culture in the city.
On Reddit, users lamented the state of literature in Pakistan, with one commenter labeling the situation as “embarrassing.” Others suggested that the high prices of books compared to affordable food options contributed to the low sales. A Reddit user noted, “A book costs 400-500 PKR (and usually more at fairs). Biryani and shawarma are around 100 PKR. If I want a book, I’d much rather go to a second-hand bookstore because it’s cheaper with more variety.”
Despite the negative attention, some users countered that a similar fair in Karachi would see much higher sales, citing the price differences between food and literature as a significant factor influencing consumer choices.
Conclusion
The debate over the Lahore book fair highlights broader issues regarding the reading culture in Pakistan and the challenges literary events face in attracting audiences in an age dominated by fast food and quick entertainment. While the claim of only 35 books sold has been called into question, the discussions surrounding it reveal an urgent need for revitalizing interest in reading and literature in the region.
Sources By Agencies
