Gambat Celebrates the End of a Three-Day Literary Event
The Third Hafeez Shaikh Book Fair, organized by the Sindh Fikri Forum Gambat, wrapped up its three-day run in Gambat with a celebration of literature and community. The event, held annually to honor the birth anniversary of Hafeez Shaikh and to promote a culture of reading, drew residents from nearby towns and rural areas, reinforcing the importance of books and shared learning.
Highlights That Shaped the Fair
Organizers described the fair as a comprehensive platform for readers, writers, teachers, and students to engage with books, discuss ideas, and discover local authors. A series of author talks, storytelling sessions for children, poetry recitals, and book launches formed the core program. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a diverse collection ranging from literature and history to science and children’s books.
Community-Centered Activities
Beyond book stalls, the fair offered interactive sessions designed to ignite curiosity. Local libraries and schools hosted reading circles, while volunteers led workshops on literacy development and book borrowing systems. The event also featured a panel on the importance of early literacy, emphasizing how reading at a young age nurtures critical thinking and creativity in the next generation.
Promoting Local Authors and Educational Access
One of the fair’s central goals was to spotlight regional writers and poets who reflect the cultural tapestry of Sindh. Several new titles by aspiring authors found eager audiences, and there was a dedicated corner for students to consult with mentors about publishing and research methods. The fair served as a reminder that access to books and knowledge remains a key pillar of educational equity in the region.
Festive Yet Educational Atmosphere
Visitors described the environment as welcoming and family-friendly, with safe spaces for children to listen to stories and learn through play. Local vendors offered affordable educational materials, notebooks, and school supplies, helping families prepare for the upcoming academic term. Music, traditional snacks, and cultural displays added to the festive atmosphere while keeping the focus on learning and literacy.
Officials and Community Leaders Weigh In
Speakers at the closing ceremony underscored the importance of sustained reading initiatives and ongoing collaboration between civil society and educational institutions. They highlighted how such fairs can act as catalysts for long-term literacy programs, library development, and community-led book drives. The sentiment shared was clear: when communities invest in reading, they invest in their future.
Looking Ahead: What the Fair Means for Gambat
As Gambat looks to the future, the success of the Third Hafeez Shaikh Book Fair demonstrates that literature can unite people across ages and backgrounds. Organizers have already begun planning next year’s event, with renewed commitments to expanding access to books, increasing participant diversity, and fostering a sustainable reading culture across Sindh. The fair’s enduring message is simple: every page turned, every story shared, contributes to a brighter, more informed community.
