UAE, India, Syria, Egypt, and Jordan top the list of nationalities that visited the book fair. …reports Asian Lite News
The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024) concluded after receiving 1.82 million visitors from over 200 countries, cementing its status as a global cultural hub. Held from November 6-17 under the theme “It Starts with a Book”, the event hosted over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from 108 countries, maintaining its position as the world’s top book fair in publishing rights transactions for the fourth consecutive year, registering 3,000 meetings in 48 hours.
UAE, India, Syria, Egypt, and Jordan top the list of nationalities that visited the book fair. Regarding age groups, visitors aged between 35 and 44 constituted the largest segment at 32.18%, followed by those aged 25 to 34 at 31.67%, and young adults aged 18 to 24 at 13.7%. Men accounted for 53.66% of the book fair’s visitors, while 46.36% was represented by women. Additionally, the exhibition welcomed 135,000 students from various schools nationwide, reflecting the growing interest in fostering a reading culture among younger generations. The Book Signing Corner saw 1000+ authors unveil their latest works.
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, underscored the emirate’s cultural commitment by allocating AED 4.5 million to enrich public and governmental libraries. This investment enabled the acquisition of new Arabic and international titles, reinforcing the role of libraries as essential knowledge hubs.
Reflecting on the 43rd edition, Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, said: “The exceptional milestones achieved during SIBF 2024 mark a significant addition to Sharjah’s cultural journey. Welcoming 1.82 million visitors and hosting over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from across the globe has elevated the event from a book fair to a dynamic and thriving book community. It is now a fully-fledged cultural ecosystem, bringing together creators, readers, and all key stakeholders in the literary and publishing sectors.”
He continued: “This remarkable accomplishment underscores the global significance of the cultural vision founded by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and pursued by SBA under the leadership and guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the authority’s Chairperson. Under his leadership, the fair has evolved into an inspiring model of a community dedicated to the book and all facets of its creation. It is a driving force in fostering a culture of reading and fortifying the publishing industry on both local and international fronts.”
The fair spotlighted Algerian author Ahlam Mosteghanemi as the Cultural Personality of the Year for her extraordinary contributions to Arabic literature. It also celebrated the completion of the Historical Corpus of the Arabic Language, a monumental 127-volume achievement that preserves centuries of linguistic heritage, produced through collaboration with Arabic language academies.
Morocco took center stage as the Guest of Honour, offering a vibrant showcase of its literary and cultural heritage. Its pavilion featured over 4,000 titles, rare artefacts, and sessions led by Moroccan intellectuals, adding depth to the cross-cultural dialogues hosted throughout the fair.
This year’s programme featured a diverse lineup of global icons from literature, arts, and sports. Workshops, seminars, and panel discussions brought together over 85 Arab and Emirati writers and 49 international literary figures.
The book Missing Migrants and Access to Justice commemorates 25 years of Pravasa Lokam, a pioneering Kairali TV program dedicated to locating missing migrant workers in the Gulf and supporting Indians in distress abroad
At the Sharjah International Book Festival (SIBF), the spotlight turned to the challenges of diaspora communities with an event to release Missing Migrants and Access to Justice.
Co-authored by veteran journalist and Pravasa Lokam associate Anasudhin Azeez and renowned diaspora researcher and Lok Kerala Sabha (LKS) coordinator Dr CS Akhil, the book commemorate s 25 years of Pravasa Lokam, a pioneering Kairali TV program dedicated to locating missing migrant workers in the Gulf and supporting Indians in distress abroad.
The book was officially presented by Pabitra Majumdar, Labour and Madad Consul General at the Indian Consulate in Dubai, to Lok Kerala Sabha member TK Abdul Hameed. Advocate Abdul Karim Ahmed bin Eid, the chief guest, emphasised the importance of legal protection for all residents in the UAE, highlighting the nation’s inclusive ethos as a “garden” that embraces all, irrespective of religion or caste.
Labour Consul Pabitra Mukherjee praised Pravasa Lokam for its impactful work, calling it a source of pride for the Indian community. She commended the program’s dedication, which she described as a remarkable contribution from a television channel to society.
The event also honoured Pravasa Lokam Director Rafeek Ravuther for his contributions. Advocate Abdul Karim presented him with a Ponnada (golden shawl) and a memento to mark the occasion. Co-author CS Akhil was similarly felicitated.
Several dignitaries attended the function, including NK Kunjahammed, a member of the Pravasi Kshemanidhi Board of Directors, Malayalam Mission Academy Council Member and UAE Coordinator KL Gopi, and Lok Kerala Sabha invitees RP Murali, K Rajan, Sujitha Subru, and Pravasalokam representative Anil Ampat.
The event was moderated by Lok Kerala Sabha member and journalist Tansi Hashir, who ensured the function’s smooth proceedings.
The release of the book highlights the enduring legacy of Pravasa Lokam and its commitment to addressing diaspora challenges over the past 25 years.
The Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on the Association’s activities and efforts to develop the publishing industry locally and regionally…reports Asian Lite News
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, visited the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) stand at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair. His Highness was welcomed by Rashid Al Kous, the Association’s Executive Director.
The Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on the Association’s activities and efforts to develop the publishing industry locally and regionally. Al Kous presented His Highness with a study conducted in collaboration with the TRENDS Research and Advisory Centre, exploring the EPA’s impact on the UAE’s publishing industry, under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the EPA, highlighting the main challenges and opportunities faced by the UAE’s publishing sector and offering recommendations to strengthen the industry.
Al Kous reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting and empowering Emirati publishers and fostering a conducive environment for the growth and prosperity of the book industry in the UAE: “As the regulator and enabler of the publishing sector in the UAE, under the vision and guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Emirates Publishers Association dedicates its capabilities to enhancing the strength and distinctiveness of this sector, nurturing its growth and sustainability to support the creative economy in the country.”
A panel discussion titled “The Impact of the Emirates Publishers Association on Supporting the Cultural Publishing Movement” was moderated by Abdullah Al Khaja, Researcher at Trends. During the session, HE Rashid Al Kous discussed with Sultan Al Ali, Deputy Head of the Trends Dubai sector and Director of the Global Barometer at the Trends Research and Advisory Centre, the results of the study and the prospects of the publishing sector in the United Arab Emirates in light of the Association’s active role.Additionally, as part of the book fair activities, the EPA hosted a workshop presented by Tamer Saeed, Director of the Sharjah International Agency for Literary Rights, which highlighted the Agency’s role in protecting the rights of publishers and authors in translation and publishing, regulating the sale of these rights, and supporting the growth of the Arab publishing market. The workshop also underscored how the EPA contributes to delivering Arab cultural content to diverse cultures worldwide.
Prior to the launch of the Sharjah International Book Fair, the EPA had organised a meeting on 5 November between the International Publishers Association and the Arab Publishers Association, attended by Karine Pansa, President of the International Publishers Association, and Abdullah Al Kaabi, President of the Emirates Publishers Association. The meeting aimed to discuss Arab publishing issues and strengthen cooperation and exchange of expertise between the two parties to enhance the publishing industry and ensure its sustainability.
Sharjah International Book Fair to Honour Rafeek Ravuther, the Producer/Director of Landmark TV Program ‘Pravasalokam’ which completes 1000 episodes within 25 years…reports Asian Lite News
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), one of the most prestigious literary gatherings in the Arab world, is set to host a special event honouring Rafeek Ravuther, the producer/ director of Pravasalokam, a revolutionary television program that celebrates its 25th anniversary and 1,000th episode this year.
The event will commemorate the impact of Pravasalokam, which has fundamentally transformed media engagement in the Gulf region through its unique blend of citizen journalism and media activism.
For a quarter of a century, Pravasalokam, which airs on the Kairali Channel, has spotlighted the lives of Kerala’s expatriates in the Middle East, particularly focusing on those who go missing abroad. The show, often described as a lifeline for the migrant community, connects the families of missing expatriates with the resources and agencies that help reunite them with their loved ones. This innovative approach has not only provided solace to countless families but has also created a platform for migrant advocacy that transcends borders.
“Thanks to the SIBF organising committee for acknowledging our efforts to support migrant workers in the Gulf,” said Ravuther in a recent statement. “The book Missing Migrants and Access to Justice, authored by Anasudhin Azeez and Dr. C.S. Akhil, is a compilation of our work. It carries statements from people who were part of this noble effort.”
Ravuther also expressed his gratitude to the “good Samaritans in the Gulf who supported our works,” recognizing the vast network of supporters who have aided Pravasalokam’s mission over the years.
Missing Migrants and Access to Justice is a comprehensive examination of the impact of Pravasalokam. The book reflects on the program’s journey, offering insights into the challenges faced by migrant workers and the invaluable role the show has played in addressing these struggles. With more than a thousand episodes, the program has managed to address over 2,000 cases of missing expatriates, collaborating with a wide range of volunteers and experts in India and abroad.
Since its inception, Pravasalokam has addressed the plight of Kerala’s diaspora, many of whom face challenging circumstances in their host countries. In the late 20th century, cross-border mobility in India was a sensitive issue, often dominated by state regulations and sovereignty concerns. Media involvement was largely limited to cultural events and policy updates. Against this backdrop, Pravasalokam emerged as a ground-breaking force, taking a bold stand to advocate for expatriates’ rights and protection, thus challenging the traditional role of media.
The architects of Pravasalokam identified and addressed the real challenges faced by Kerala’s migrant community, ranging from financial struggles to navigating complex legal systems in foreign countries. The show encountered numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and scrutiny from foreign governments. Yet Pravasalokam persevered, expanding into a robust platform that successfully advocated for policy changes at both state and national levels. In collaboration with the Centre for Indian Migrant Studies (CIMS), the program has not only raised awareness about the hardships faced by migrant workers but also facilitated real solutions and legal support.
The legacy of Pravasalokam reflects its multifaceted mission: educating migrant workers about their rights, warning them about visa fraud, and using social media for advocacy. The program serves as a connecting point for stakeholders ranging from diplomats and philanthropists to community leaders, all working together to uplift migrant communities. This network, nurtured over two decades, has proven to be a reliable resource for those in crisis, amplifying the voices of migrant workers and giving visibility to their struggles on a global scale.
The Sharjah International Book Fair’s celebration of Pravasalokam’s legacy is also a tribute to Malayalam media, which has gained recognition globally, including from the United Nations, for its role in diaspora support and media activism. The program’s success is not only due to the efforts of Ravuther and his team but also to the resilience of the Kerala diaspora, whose stories and sacrifices are central to the show’s mission. This event at SIBF will highlight the journey of Pravasalokam as a beacon of empowerment and solidarity, reshaping public perception of migrant workers and validating their experiences.
Through a deep dive into Pravasalokam’s origins, Missing Migrants and Access to Justice documents the unwavering dedication that has kept this program alive despite countless obstacles. The book offers insights into the program’s structure, its investigative approach, and the collaborative efforts that have allowed it to thrive as a support system for migrant workers. By narrating the program’s milestones and challenges, the book also provides a roadmap for other activists and organizations aiming to support expatriate communities.
As the 25-year journey of Pravasalokam continues, the program’s impact serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots media activism. Ravuther’s vision has reshaped Kerala’s diaspora, fostering a sense of identity and resilience among expatriates. The SIBF’s tribute not only commemorates a significant achievement in the media world but also calls for continued action in supporting migrant communities worldwide. This event is expected to inspire other media professionals and activists to create meaningful change through compassionate journalism and to recognize the strength of non-state interventions in safeguarding the rights of migrant workers.
Hoshang Osi, a prize-winning Syrian-Kurdish poet and novelist, likened AI to beauty laboratories in cosmetics, envisioning its potential sophistication in the future but avoiding predictions about its nature in 2050….reports Asian Lite News
In a thought-provoking discussion on “Verses in the Digital Age” at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair, poets Shelby Leigh from the USA and Hoshang Osi from Syria emphasized the irreplaceable role of human creativity and emotions, asserting that artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT cannot replicate these essential elements.
Moderated by Emirati TV presenter Alya Al Mansoori, the session delved into the evolving trends of poetry on social media platforms and explored the increasing attraction of readers to connect with poets online.
Hoshang Osi, a Syrian-Kurdish poet and award-winning novelist, drew a parallel between AI and beauty laboratories in cosmetics, describing AI as potentially sophisticated in the future but refraining from making predictions about its nature in 2050. He likened poetry to a free-flowing river on social media, an open space that adapts to the poet’s situation or location, defying easy definition unlike prose and drama.
Reflecting on the language in his works, Osi noted that his literature mirrored the linguistic qualities of the language he wrote in, aiming for an easy and authentic connection with the reader.
Shelby Leigh, a poet and mental health advocate with over seven years of online writing experience, shared her journey of initially writing anonymously about mental health issues such as anxiety from her own experiences and emotions. Leigh, who now hosts a virtual poetic community and assists aspiring writers in getting their works published, emphasized that AI, while a supportive tool, cannot replace the depth of her emotions and creativity. She highlighted the joy of connecting with people on social media but emphasized the unique human element that AI lacks.
Both poets delighted poetry enthusiasts by reading excerpts from their poems during the engaging session.
The will help acquisition of publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the Sharjah International Book Fair….reports Asian Lite News
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has allocated AED 4.5 million for the acquisition of the latest publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the ongoing 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. This initiative aims to furnish the public and government libraries in the Emirates with a diverse range of literary content.
This endeavour is deeply rooted in His Highness’s vision to bolster the publishing industry in the region and worldwide, thereby strengthening the prospects and success of publishers. Concurrently, it seeks to broaden the knowledge resources accessible to the communities of Sharjah and the UAE, encompassing readers, researchers, and students. Furthermore, it underscores the pivotal role of libraries in shaping a knowledge-based society and enhancing their contributions towards achieving a comprehensive and sustainable cultural renaissance.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, expressed, “The grant from His Highness is a continuation of Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the publishing industry and enrich both public and government libraries. The support offered by the Sharjah Ruler each year enables publishers to continue to grow and expand. It also updates Sharjah’s libraries with new releases across genres of science, knowledge and literature, which enables them to better serve their members and visitors and continue fostering a knowledge-based society”.
She added, “SIBF has evolved into a holistic event that encompasses vital roles of book promotion, marketing as well as the enhancement of culture and knowledge-related activities. It has also emerged as a global platform that empowers publishers to overcome challenges through support, training, awards, and other resources. All these contributions have further solidified Sharjah’s appeal as a preferred destination for regional and international professionals in the book industry. Furthermore, the emirate’s libraries have become go-to destinations for students and researchers, owing to the wealth of knowledge and diverse range of books and publications they offer.”
The grant signifies a renewed commitment to support government and private libraries in the emirate, encompassing various scientific and literary disciplines in multiple languages. Each year, it enriches the libraries with thousands of new titles, further solidifying Sharjah’s reputation as one of the leading cities supporting initiatives for knowledge-based societies, actively contributing to the advancement of scientific research and the creation of substantial content.
SIBF Explores Ithra’s Global Impact
The ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) recently hosted Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in an engaging session featuring esteemed members and past winners of its renowned reading competition.
Emphasising the centre’s dedication to its founding pillars of culture, creativity, community, art, and knowledge, the session exemplified Ithra’s mission to cultivate a vibrant literary community and encourage a deeper engagement with the word.
The esteemed panellists, comprising distinguished Ithra members, Tariq Khawaji, a cultural consultant at Ithra and supervisor of the Ithra Reading Program (iRead) and previous winners of the reading competition, Duaa Hassnin from Egypt and Sufyan al-Buraq, 2023 winner of Ithra competition from Morocco, offered insightful perspectives and personal anecdotes that underscored the transformative power of literature and the enduring impact of Ithra’s initiatives on their literary journeys.
Tariq Khawaji shared Ithra‘s journey since its establishment in 2018 to promote literacy and cultivate a dynamic cultural landscape. He stated that the Ithra reading competition began as a local literary event in the Al-Sharqiyyah region in eastern Saudi Arabia only to turn national in response to the high number of entries received in the first edition and, ultimately, into a regional competition for Arab readers and writers in the Arab world.
Sharing heartfelt accounts of their literary explorations and the impact of Ithra’s programmes on their academic aspirations, the panellists underscored the pivotal role of the reading competition in nurturing a lifelong love for reading and fostering a deep appreciation for diverse literary genres and narratives.
The session served as an inspiration for aspiring readers and literary enthusiasts attending the discussion at SIBF, which runs in Expo Centre Sharjah until 12th November, with the theme of “We Speak Books”.
With its its largest-ever country participation, SIBF’s 42nd annual edition will host 1,700 events and South Korea as Guest of Honour….reports Asian Lite News
The 42nd annual edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) has crossed a historic milestone by attracting the highest number of participating countries since its inception in 1981. This edition will play host to 2,033 publishers and exhibitors from 108 nations from around the world. They will collectively present an impressive array of 1.5 million titles, all to be showcased in Expo Centre Sharjah from 1-12 November.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and carrying the theme We Speak Books, SIBF 2023 will bring together 600 authors from around the world to sign their new works. This is part of a comprehensive cultural, creative, and entertaining 12-day agenda that includes over 1,700 activities led by 215 guests from 69 countries targeting all age groups and diverse interests.
This year, SIBF celebrates South Korea as the Guest of Honour, showcasing the republic’s unique knowledge and cultural landscape covering literature, art, technology, and culture. The cultural extravaganza will also host an exhibition in collaboration with the Portuguese University of Coimbra featuring 60 historical artefacts. Furthermore, the book fair has dedicated 6 interactive spaces to upskill visitors and enrich their knowledge.
Sharjah: The Silk Road for Publishers
During his keynote speech, H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, affirmed that Sharjah has become a hub connecting the East and West. This achievement is attributed to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who recognised the importance of knowledge and books in nation-building and the advancement of civilisations. Al Ameri pointed out that the emirate not only facilitates access to books for readers everywhere but also aspires to become the “Silk Road” for publishers worldwide. These achievements have been widely recognised and lauded globally.
Al Ameri said, “The emirate’s relentless efforts have led to significant global milestones, guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, who has spearheaded the advancement of the publishing industry in Sharjah, the UAE, and the world. She has laid solid foundations for the development of the country’s publishing sector. Today, she continues this journey as the Chairperson of SBA.”
Al Ameri concluded by saying, “Today, we are not only here to announce the details of SIBF 2023 but also to take a new step in a cultural project that has been evolving for forty-two years. This project emphasises that books are the cornerstone of developmental plans for countries in the region and globally. That’s why we have chosen the theme ‘We Speak Books’ for the 42nd edition.”
During his speech at the press conference H.E, Moon Byung-iun, Consul General of the Republic of Korea said, “Korea’s methods of modernising its culture while preserving its past roots aligns perfectly with Sharjah’s values of supporting cultural creativity while preserving its local heritage and history. I believe that the cultural exchange between Sharjah and South Korea will continue to deepen and therefore open new paths of exchange that were never explored before. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sharjah Book Authority for their amazing efforts to bring more than 20 South Korean authors, novelists, poets, calligraphers to Sharjah to exhibit their work and share their knowledge through talks, workshops and many more cultural programs.”
‘We Speak Books’
Reflecting on the SIBF 2023 slogan, Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, said: “We Speak Books embodies SIBF’s comprehensive vision for the book and culture industry. It has evolved beyond an event for buying and selling books to become a global hub for exchanging expertise, ideas, and knowledge. It also serves as a platform for securing publishing and translation agreements and a forum for discussing literary, artistic, and intellectual issues, attracting a diverse audience from all segments of society, whether they are avid book readers or interested in creative industries related to books.”
1043 Arab publishers and 900 international
This year, 1043 Arab and 990 international publishers will showcase over 1.5 million titles, including 800,000 in Arabic and 700,000 in other languages during SIBF 2023. The UAE, Egypt and Lebanon top the list of Arab publishers taking part in the 42nd edition and on the international front, publishers from India, the UK, and Turkey top the international list.
127 Guests and 460 Cultural Activities
The 42nd edition will feature a constellation of esteemed writers, thinkers, intellectuals, and artists, including Nobel laureates and recipients of distinguished Arab and international accolades. The exhibition will congregate 127 Arab and international guests from 33 countries to steer 460 cultural endeavours, encompassing panel discussions, immersive workshops, and sessions spanning various artistic expressions and literary genres.
SIBF 2023 will welcome eminent Emirati writers and intellectuals, such as poet Khaled Al-Badou, Dr. Mashael Al Nabooda, Adel Khozam, Mohammed Al Jokar, Suad Al-Araimi, Fathia Al Nimr, Dr. Aisha Al-Ghais, and Saeed Al Badi.
From the Arab domain, SIBF will host Algerian novelist Ahlam Mosteghanemi; Egyptian writer and screenwriter Ahmed Mourad; Kuwaiti author Dr. Mohamed Al Ghandour; Kuwaiti novelist Bothayna Al Issa; Lebanese poet Talal Haidar; Egyptian poet Nour Abdel Meguid; Egyptian media figure Reham Ayad; Kuwaiti poet Sheryan AlDihanni; Egyptian novelist and journalist Tareq Imam; Saudi poet Fahad AlShahrani; published physiognomy and body language experts Sarah and Hajar Abdul Rahman; Qatari poet Nasser Alober; along with many others.
Prominent international figures gracing SIBF 2023 include English-born Canadian journalist Malcolm Gladwell; Indian actress Kareena Kapoor; Swedish behavioural expert and author Thomas Erikson; Nigerian playwright and novelist Wole Soyinka; British-Pakistani novelist and writer Mohsin Hamid; Czech-Canadian scientist Vaclav Smil; American astronaut Sunita Williams; Dutch author Swami Purnachaitanya; Indian writer Monika Halan; among others.
60 historical artefacts
The 42nd edition will feature an exhibition in collaboration with the University of Coimbra. This exhibition delves into the Portuguese presence in the Gulf and the cultural relationships forged there during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It will display 60 historical artefacts, including manuscripts, rare books, maps, and maritime tools. This exhibition underscores the profound relationship between the University of Coimbra and Sharjah, further solidified by the conferment of an honorary degree to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and the Ruler of Sharjah, in 2018. Concurrently, a series of sessions will be organised, featuring esteemed historians discussing various facets of Portuguese history in the region.
Thriller Festival
The eagerly awaited second edition of the Thriller Festival is slated from November 8-10, in partnership with Thriller Festival NY. This 3-day event will congregate acclaimed thriller and crime genre writers with their aficionados. This year, the festival will spotlight ten international authors, including bestsellers, to engage with mystery and suspense enthusiasts in the region. Featured authors comprise Felix Francis, Ivy Pochoda, Candice Fox, J.D. Barker, Danielle Trussoni, Alex Finlay, Max Seeck, Blake Crouch, C.J. Howe, and Kathleen Antrim.