"Pages of Wisdom: Galle's Literary Extravaganza and the Inaugural Southern Book Fair"

"Reading maketh a full man," proclaimed Francis Bacon, but the profound truth extends beyond individual enrichment—it shapes the world. Reading transcends the mere accumulation of facts; it delves into the timeless queries that echo through the ages: Who am I? How do I perceive reality? How do I define my reality? The essence of knowledge is dynamic, ever-evolving across time. What one comprehends today surpasses the understanding of those who lived centuries ago.

The evolution of technology has ushered in smartphones and the internet as new vessels for knowledge, yet the significance of books endures. Beyond mere repositories of information, books are historical narratives—priceless "Great Letters" that capture the evolution of human understanding. In an era where information resides on the internet, books remain irreplaceable, preserving a rich tapestry of accumulated wisdom.

Consider the Bible, a testament to the power of written words. Subjected to bans, burnings, and martyrdom, it stands as an enduring example of the impact a book can wield—both as fire and ink. Launching an ode to this legacy and celebrating literature's vibrant tapestry, the Commonwealth Book Publishers Network, in collaboration with the esteemed Galle Literary Festival, presents the inaugural Southern Book Fair. Scheduled from January 19th to 28th, 2024, this event promises to be a dynamic celebration of literature, embracing Sri Lanka's cultural diversity, fostering creativity, promoting innovation, and reigniting a global passion for literature.

The Southern Book Fair was officially announced at a press conference on November 30th at the Kingsbury. Described as "a vibrant celebration of literature," it aspires to be a platform nurturing the spirit of collaboration, accessibility, and a renewed love for literature, not only within Sri Lanka but across the broader global community. As Galle's Literary Extravaganza unfolds, it invites all to immerse themselves in the timeless allure of books, fostering a collective appreciation for the written word and its profound impact on shaping our world.

"Southern Book Fair: A Literary Extravaganza in the Heart of Galle Fort"

Nestled in the heart of the historic Galle Fort, the Southern Book Fair is set to be a literary haven, beckoning publishers, editors, aspiring authors, and fervent readers to converge. Against the timeless backdrop of Galle, this event provides a unique platform for forging new partnerships, celebrating our rich literary heritage, and introducing contemporary works that echo diverse voices from around the globe.

Operated in collaboration with the esteemed Galle Literary Festival, the Southern Book Fair aligns with the global reputation of its partner event, known for attracting literary enthusiasts, poets, musicians, artists, and culinary experts from far and wide. With a mix of renowned and emerging writers and thinkers, the festival is recognized internationally for its inclusive and diverse program, making it an ideal partner for the Southern Book Fair.

In a world that hungers for creativity, this year's Southern Book Fair promises an unparalleled immersion in literary discussions, workshops, and seminars on writing and publishing. The event serves as a global stage for Sri Lanka, amplifying its cultural richness and creative spirit. Participants will engage in panel discussions, network with literary professionals, and partake in an unprecedented promotion of Galle as a destination for literary and cultural enthusiasts—both local and international.

Edward Robinson, Director of the Commonwealth Publishers Network and a key figure behind the Southern Book Fair, brings a wealth of experience in foreign affairs, particularly in South East Asia and international development. Robinson emphasizes that the Southern Book Fair transcends a mere marketplace for books, envisioning it as a vibrant celebration of literature that enriches society, nurtures creativity, disseminates knowledge, and uplifts communities. With an ambitious agenda, the fair seeks to connect diverse voices, cultures, and foster a collective journey of self-discovery—all while offering a delightful opportunity to discover and acquire a few books along the way. The Southern Book Fair is poised to be a remarkable confluence, spotlighting Galle as a literary and cultural destination on the global map.

"Southern Book Fair: Unveiling a Literary Convergence in the Heart of Galle"

With the backing of the Presidential Secretariat and in collaboration with the renowned Galle Literary Festival, the Southern Book Fair is poised to grace Galle from January 19th to 28th. Against the picturesque backdrop of the Galle Fort UNESCO World Heritage Site, this inaugural event promises to be a literary spectacle, bringing together esteemed and emerging writers, poets, and thinkers.

Dinesh Kulathunga, Chairman of the Commonwealth Publishers Network and a seasoned publisher and printer, highlights the global significance of this event, drawing attention to its role as a pivotal moment in knowledge dissemination. Recognizing the treasure that knowledge represents, Kulathunga emphasizes the crucial role played by publishers in distributing knowledge across various formats, from print to electronic and audio. The Southern Book Fair is not just an enriching experience for the mind; it also presents promising business opportunities. Kulathunga unveils ambitious plans for a common e-platform that will unite publishers, writers, editors, and readers, fostering a shared passion for literature in the near future.

The Southern Book Fair, in its maiden edition, is strategically designed as a model for Commonwealth countries, with the potential to influence Southern festivals globally. Galle, Sri Lanka, will take center stage in January and April next year, emerging as an epicenter and a convergence point for literary enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Acknowledging the indomitable spirit of literature, MD Gunasena, a pioneer in the publishing industry and a notable philanthropist, stands as the principal sponsor of the Southern Book Fair. Rajeeve Gunasena, Managing Director of MD Gunasena, underlines the company's enduring presence at the forefront of Sri Lanka's literary landscape, championing the accessibility of knowledge and leaving an indelible mark on the publishing industry.

As the Southern Book Fair unfolds, it promises to be a celebration of literature, fostering collaboration, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of literary enthusiasts and professionals converging in the heart of Galle.

"MD Gunasena: A Literary Custodian Celebrating 110 Years of Cultural Legacy"

As a premier publisher, printer, and bookseller, MD Gunasena stands as more than a mere institution in the publishing world—it is a custodian of Sri Lanka's rich culture and heritage. With a storied history dating back to its inception in 1913, spanning 110 years, MD Gunasena remains a beacon of knowledge, a haven for book lovers, and a steadfast promoter of Sri Lankan literature. In an ever-changing literary landscape, the legacy of MD Gunasena endures, adapting to the shifting tides of the literary world.

The shelves of MD Gunasena stores narrate the story of a nation, housing the words and wisdom of esteemed authors and encapsulating the essence of a vibrant culture. It transcends being just a bookstore; it is a living testament to the literary journey of Sri Lanka. The claim, "We taught the nation to read," stands undisputed, solidifying MD Gunasena's role as a guardian of cultural identity, a patron of literature, and a bridge connecting to the rich tapestry of the country.

In an exciting announcement, MD Gunasena proudly reveals its partnership with the Commonwealth Book Publishers Network as the Principal Sponsor for the upcoming Southern Book Fair, in conjunction with the Galle Literary Festival in January 2024. This collaboration is a testament to MD Gunasena's commitment to celebrating and exploring the diverse literary landscapes that constitute the very heritage of Sri Lanka. The Southern Book Fair is envisioned not only as an entertaining event but also as an enlightening platform, showcasing the depth and breadth of the country's literary prowess.

Chevalier Niranjan Deva Aditya, Presidential Envoy of Sri Lanka to Europe and the Commonwealth, Senior Advisor to the Hon. President, and Publisher of the Commonwealth Union, lends his esteemed presence to this literary endeavor. Renowned as a politician and international statesman who has served in both the British and European parliaments, Chevalier Niranjan Deva Aditya adds a distinguished touch to the collaboration, underscoring the global resonance of MD Gunasena's commitment to literature and cultural preservation.

"Celebrating Literacy and Knowledge: A Global Endeavor by the Commonwealth Publishers Network"

In a world where literacy remains a challenge for many, the realization that 95% of Sri Lanka's population is literate is a cause for celebration. Chevalier Niranjan Deva Aditya, acknowledging this remarkable achievement, emphasizes that such a high literacy rate is a rarity, even in some parts of Western Europe. Beyond the statistical achievement, he underscores the deep-rooted tradition of literacy in Sri Lanka, a legacy that spans an impressive 2500 years.

As the vision of the Commonwealth Publishers Network unfolds, Chevalier Niranjan Deva Aditya articulates the profound purpose and objective that underpins this global initiative. The network serves as a conduit for people interested in books in developing countries, offering them the opportunity to purchase and share knowledge. By facilitating the exchange of literature within the Commonwealth, the network envisions a collaborative effort where each country's literary wealth can uplift communities, perhaps even reaching the corners of a village.

The essence of the Commonwealth Publishers Network lies in the transformative power of shared knowledge. It transcends borders and cultural boundaries, uniting nations in a collective endeavor to make literature accessible and to harness the potential of books in bringing positive change to communities. As the Southern Book Fair approaches, the network's mission takes on tangible form, fostering a platform where diverse voices converge, ideas flourish, and the written word becomes a catalyst for progress.

In conclusion, the collaboration between MD Gunasena and the Commonwealth Publishers Network for the Southern Book Fair stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature in shaping cultural identity and fostering global connections. With a rich history spanning 110 years, MD Gunasena remains a custodian of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of literacy that has thrived for over two millennia.

Chevalier Niranjan Deva Aditya's acknowledgment of Sri Lanka's exceptional literacy rate highlights the significance of this literary celebration. The Commonwealth Publishers Network's noble objective—to facilitate the exchange of knowledge among developing countries—becomes a beacon of hope, emphasizing the transformative potential of literature.

As the Southern Book Fair unfolds against the backdrop of Galle's UNESCO World Heritage Site, it promises to be more than an event—it is a convergence of minds, a celebration of diverse voices, and a platform for shared literary experiences. This collaboration not only showcases Sri Lanka's literary prowess but also serves as a global model for uplifting communities through the exchange of knowledge. In the coming days, the Southern Book Fair will not only entertain but enlighten, creating a literary tapestry that resonates with the vibrant spirit of Galle and the global community.