In pics: Pick up one of 15,000 books on display at India’s first ‘book village’ near Pune today

Bhilar village, modelled on a Welsh village known as world’s largest second-hand book centre, is a haven for bibliophiles

India’s first ‘book village’, modelled on the world’s largest second-hand book centre — Hay-on-Wye, a village in Wales, UK — is a treat for book lovers. Walk into Bhilar village near Pune and pick up one of 15,000 books, rare issues of various periodicals, novels and reference books about Maharashtra and Marathi culture written by prominent authors.

As many as 75 artists have painted houses, temples and other tourists destinations in Bhilar to beautify the village and attract tourists. (HT)

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, prominent Marathi writers, poets and artistes are expected to attend the village’s inauguration slated for today afternoon.

Bhilar has a population of about 10,000 people, 90% of whom are involved in farming. The village and its surrounding areas produce about 100 tonnes of strawberries annually, netting Rs50 crore.

Artists have tried to capture the love for reading through their murals.

While most of the books on display will be in Marathi, the state plans to acquire books in English and Hindi soon.

The government will organise various events to promote literature. Prominent writers and poets will host events and give speeches over the next few days. The government of Laos plans to undertake a similar project in Maharashtra soon.

As many as 75 artists have painted houses, temples and other tourists destinations in Bhilar to beautify the village and attract tourists.