An armed sniper standing close to the Indian military’s war vehicle smiles and answers people’s, especially children’s, queries, allows them to take a memorable selfie with him, explains how these guns work, but strictly discourages the enthusiasts from touching any of these rifles. It seems like a scene from a Bollywood movie, but one would be shocked to know that this is a reality at the ongoing 53rd edition of the World Book Fair being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The World Book Fair, organised by the National Book Trust, has dedicated this year’s event to our brave soldiers, naming the theme “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom @ 75”, intended to infuse a sense of patriotism in Gen Z.
The theme pays tribute to our armed forces and their legacy of courage and sacrifice. A 1,000-square-metre theme pavilion in Hall 5 offers a 360-degree view; over 500 books narrate valour tales and experiences of soldiers, along with specially curated posters and featured documentaries spellbind the visitors. Furthermore, mesmerising replicas of the Arjun Tank, INS Vikrant and LCA Tejas, coupled with a photo gallery representing 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, remain the key attractions.
“It’s an amazing combination of books and guns, while one teaches us dignity, the other empowers us to protect that dignity,” said Diksha, a second-year student of Delhi University’s Hindu College.
As we are aiming to be a superpower, a strong economy makes us stand confident before the world, but a strong and well-equipped army ensures that we remain confident. A country’s borders clear a line between other nations and us, and it’s a soldier who puts his life at stake to ensure that the line remains intact. Hence, we should respect our army, she further said.
Visitors also get unprecedented opportunities to listen to brave soldiers like Lt Gen (retd) KJS Dhillon, author of the widely acclaimed book “Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye”, which recalls incidents of counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir. The youth seem desperate to know the untold stories, whether they pertain to historical wars or military operations.
Moreover, ex-army men also are changing the narrative politely. They are happily sharing memories, answering people’s questions without hesitating to cradle a child in their arms for the perfect pose for a picture.
The theme is bridging the gap between civilians and the security forces without touching the integrity of the Indian Army.
Henceforth, what can help in sowing a seed of patriotism is tapping the budding generation. Bal Mandapam, dedicated to children’s events, also coincides with the theme. Children witnessing posters and installations describing the glory of the Indian Army, and a dazzling smile occurs on their face when they ask, “Uncle, can I hold your gun once?” but the request always receives a humble and polite denial from the sniper.
“I frequently buy a gun when we go out. I play fauzi game with my brother. I wish to be a soldier and hold the real gun one day,” said 8-year-old Advik, expressing curiosity about the Indian Army.
