Latest news with #Patnaites
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Patna's book trade defies digital age
Patna: Since China unveiled the world's first printed book – the Diamond Sutra – in 868 CE, the evolution of books has come a long way from scrolls and stone tablets. With the spread of literacy and the onset of the information age, the book industry experienced explosive global growth, India included. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Now, in an era dominated by digital media, a familiar question resurfaces: are physical books on the verge of extinction? Quite the contrary. Far from spelling doom for print, the digital revolution is fuelling a renaissance. In a surprising twist, global sales of paper books have surged, rising nearly 8% in recent years. Analysts in the publishing world say India's book market remains not only robust but on the rise. Valued at approximately Rs 50,000 crore in 2019, the industry is projected to grow to a staggering Rs 80,000 crore by 2024. And its impact is more than just economic as the publishing sector supports over 1.2 million jobs, promotes education and plays a vital role in preserving and propagating Indian culture and values. Nearly 45% of trade books sold are in regional languages, a proof of the country's linguistic diversity. Several factors drive this upward trajectory like higher enrolment in educational institutions, increased govt spending on education and broader efforts to promote learning. Interestingly, over a third of the market – 35.4% precisely – comprises readers aged 25 to 34, signalling a youthful engagement with books. Bihar, and Patna in particular, mirrors this national trend. Despite the convenience of online book sales, the city's local book trade continues to thrive. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now What keeps it alive? The joy of flipping through pages, the satisfaction of making a find in a second-hand store and the sense of community among readers. That enduring passion is visible on every corner. "None of the publishing houses or bookshops that have been around for 60 or 70 years have shut down because of declining sales," said Bimal Rastogi, owner of Book Palace on Ashok Rajpath. "A few shops may have closed due to personal reasons, but not for lack of business," he added. Patna once held a reputation as a literary hub with over a dozen prominent publishers and distributors headquartered in the city and branch offices across India. Even today, major national publishing houses maintain their presence here, continuing to do brisk business. Narendra Jha of Novelty & Company, publishers and distributors operating on Ashok Rajpath since 1945, believes the charm of physical books still captivates Patnaites. "Despite the growing use of the internet, email and the rise of online book shopping, people here love browsing through books before deciding what to buy," he said. Jha added, "The annual book fair we organise not only draws large crowds of book lovers but also boosts sales across genres and encourages a reading habit among the youth." For Rabindra Jain of Motilal Banarsidass, also based on Ashok Rajpath and in operation since 1937, the interest in printed books remains constant. "Our focus is on philosophy, religion and astrology and sales are steady throughout the year. Any good bookseller sells books worth Rs 50,000 a day, on average," he said. Govt support has also played a key role. Jain pointed out that the state sanctions ample grants to educational institutions for purchasing textbooks and reference materials. "Books worth Rs 2 lakh are bought in every panchayat from govt funds," he said. Beyond formal shops, Patna's streets are a treasure trove for readers. From the iconic Ashok Rajpath opposite Patna University to Apna Bazar near Gandhi Maidan, Khaitan Market at Sabzibagh and neighbourhoods like Boring Road and Kadamkuan, pavements brim with second-hand books at bargain prices.
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Patnaites prefer ‘desi' drinks to beat the heat
Patna: As scorching summer is on, so are the ways to combat it. Though carbonated soft drinks are more popular among youths, many Patnaites are turning to traditional and homemade 'desi' beverages like nimbu paani , sattu , lassi, and aam panna to beat the heat. "I choose juices and nimbu paani over carbonated drink. They make me feel more refreshed and energetic, and they're healthier," said Shekhar, a student at IIT Patna. Arunima Pandey, another student, said, "I enjoy homemade milkshakes and nimbu paani, but occasionally have carbonated drink. Still, water is the most important source of hydration and should never be replaced with aerated drinks." Regardless of how the weather gets, work must go on, and staying mindful of what you eat and drink becomes essential. Shweta Kumari, a teacher at a school, said, "I start my day with a glass of cool water, followed by aam panna — it helps control gas and keeps me refreshed throughout the day. I even carry it to work. I also make it a point to eat curd daily to keep my system cool," she said. Having grown up with home remedies, she now prepares nutritious, homemade drinks for her children as well. "Though kids today are more inclined towards packaged beverages, I try to limit their intake and encourage them to enjoy our desi drinks instead." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch Bitcoin và Ethereum - Không cần ví! IC Markets BẮT ĐẦU NGAY Undo Celebrating summers in the Bihari style, Manish Kumar has made sattu a part of his daily routine for over a decade. "I try to consume natural things to avoid early reliance on medicines. Sattu is a great drink—refreshing and easy to make." A coconut vendor in Ramnagri Market reported a boom in sales during summer, noting that many people prefer nariyal paani for its health benefits. Similarly, a salesman at an Amul parlour observed increased demand for lassis, ice creams, cold coffee, and cold drinks due to the hot and humid weather. "Sometimes I crave drinking things outside home, so I come here and get small packets of lassis and buttermilk over soda drinks," said Aarav, a student at a private school in Danapur. Kabir Kalra, a student studying in Bangalore, expressed his appreciation for homemade drinks when he came back home during vacations. "At home, I enjoy nimbu paani, sharbat, cold coffee, and lassi. Mummy usually doesn't buy packaged fruit juice—she prefers making it fresh," he said. "In college, I often rely on local juice shops for lime juice or soda." Dr Sanjay Kumar Pandey from AIIMS Patna said, "Dehydration is a common problem, so it's important to drink enough water and natural liquids. Try to avoid carbonated drinks as they are harmful to health. They often contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners that can cause weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes. They may feel refreshing, but they don't really quench your thirst." He recommends homemade drinks to keep the body cool. Coconut water is also a great option as it helps restore lost minerals. He also advised avoiding the sun during peak hours, wearing light clothes, and taking special care of children and the elderly.
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Walk, eat & relax by the Ganges
Patna: A gleaming new riverside retreat, one that promises a fusion of flavour, leisure and scenic charm along the tranquil stretch of the Ganga, awaits Patnaites. As the sun dips below the horizon, the lanes of the state capital are poised for transformation with a dedicated food arena and recreational zone along J P Ganga Path , fondly known as the city's own 'Marine Drive'. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The ambitious 'Riverfront Development along the Ganga' project, under the stewardship of Patna Smart City Limited (PSCL), is set to break ground this month. A city-based firm has been entrusted with the work, which covers a 3-km arc from Digha roundabout to LCT Ghat, an area already popular among evening strollers and food lovers. The project, valued at Rs 52 crore, has been split into two distinct sections. The first – a lively picnic and vending zone infused with curated street food kiosks. The second – a tranquil green belt adorned with walking trails, ornamental landscaping, benches and atmospheric lighting. "The work will start soon and it will likely be completed within the next two months by utilising the funds to the tune of Rs 15 crore," said Priya Saurabh, spokesperson for PSCL. "The prefabricated structure will have space for 500 shops. Planter beds have been installed in this vending zone to make it look more appealing," she added. The designated vending zone will stretch 2,250 metres from Digha roundabout to Kurji Mor. Here, stylish prefabricated kiosks will be erected, creating a vibrant, neatly organised hub of flavours. From sizzling snacks to modern bites, it will be a one-stop haven for foodies. Beyond this lies the no-vending zone – from Kurji Mor to LCT Ghat – where a 650-metre stretch will be given over to calm and greenery. The department of environment, forest and climate change has taken charge here, rolling out a plan for plantations, pedestrian paths, decorative benches and soft-glow street lighting. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "The Marine Drive has evolved into a defining landmark of the city with its 3-km stretch from Digha Golambar to LCT Ghat transforming into a popular tourist destination where families and friends gather to socialise and savour various delicacies. This project will help to properly organise this area, ensuring adequate space for visitors to enjoy their picnics comfortably," Priya added. The revamp also comes with a practical twist. "The initiative is also aimed at addressing traffic congestion issues by expanding recreational areas and relocating scattered vendors to designated vending zones in an organised manner," she added. The new vending kiosks will come in three sizes – 600, 480 and 240 square feet – each designed for functionality and visual appeal. From decorative and bollard lighting to stylish streetlamps, shaded seating and fully equipped amenities including washrooms and urinals, the zone will combine street culture with smart infrastructure. Allocation of these sleek, portable shops is to be decided shortly, ensuring that the most popular street chefs of Patna can continue to shine in a better, more beautiful setting. Selfie-lovers won't be disappointed either. While the popular 'Chakachak Patna' photo point remains, two to three new selfie spots will be added. "Two parking spaces are already there, each at Digha roundabout and near Kurji Mor, so that the visitors can walk along the Ganga Path, enjoy the delicacies, and the beautiful view of the river," Priya said. For now, J P Ganga Path already thrums with life each evening. Food carts and makeshift stalls dish out a sensory explosion, from chaat, chowmein, and litti-chokha to momos, chicken fry, stuffed naan, pizza, and vada pav. Sweet treats like kulfi, faluda-ice cream, ice gola, and fresh fruit juices complete the nightly feast.
Time of India
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Couldn't miss once in a lifetime opportunity: Audience on state's 1st SKAT show
1 2 3 Patna: It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for most of Patnaites on Wednesday morning. And that is why people thronged not only the venue along JP Ganga, but booked their seats on the rooftops of nearby buildings as well as treetops to witness a live air show by the world-famous Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force, organised for the first time in Bihar. Residents, young and old, men and women, not only from different walks of life but different parts of state as well, waited with bated breath for the scintillating aerobatics display, which finally began around 10.30am amid huge cheers. The size of the crowd can be gauged from the fact that the entire stretch from JP Ganga Path towards Gol Ghar was jam-packed and vehicles moved at snails' pace when people started returning after the conclusion of the air show. Surendra Kumar (65) had reached Patna all the way from Nalanda only to watch the unique aerobatics displays. "I have watched their performances only on television till now, so I decided not to miss the chance, and see them live," said an enthusiastic Surendra, briskly walking towards the venue. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Another elderly person, claiming to be a descendent of Babu Veer Kunwar Singh — in whose honour the air show was held on Shaurya Diwas — said it was a matter of great pride that SKAT performance was held for the first time in Bihar on the occasion, also known as Vijyotsav, to commemorate the victory of Kunwar Singh over the British on the same day during the 1857 revolution. Homemakers Sunita and Gudiya, who came to watch the aerobatics displays with their families, said the event would remain etched in their memories. "It was awesome! We knew that there would certainly be something very special, but what we saw cannot be summarised in words. We are very lucky to have got the opportunity to watch such an incredible air show," said Sunita. Among the audience were many school students who wanted pictures with the SKAT crew, who later obliged them. A group of school students, when asked about their favourite manoeuvre, said all the aerobatics displays were mind-blowing. "If the tricolour trail filled us with a sense of patriotism, the heart formation was lovely," said Deepak, a Class XI student.
