Books, conversations and literary curiosity have taken centre stage at Balrampur Garden as Lucknow hosts its 23rd National Book Fair. Among the authors drawing attention is writer Tushar Khare, whose books Express-Way and The Sky Within are being showcased at Stalls No. 7 and 8 by FlyDreams Publications. Khare’s presence has added a contemporary literary touch to the bustling fair, where readers have been exploring new voices alongside established names.

The fair itself has turned into a lively meeting point for readers, writers and publishers, with more than 120 stalls featuring works across Hindi, English and other regional languages. From fiction and poetry to children’s literature, academic titles and newer genres, the selection has given visitors plenty to browse. The dedicated space for local writers has also offered emerging authors an opportunity to meet readers and showcase their work.

The literary programme has further added to the buzz, with book launches, author interactions, discussions and poetry sessions taking place through the fair. Writers and works including Sumbul Siddiqui’s Echoes of Resilience and Unbroken Glow, Shailendra Jasraj’s Kahani Phir Kabhi and Koi Geet Subah Ka Gata Hai, along with contributions from other literary voices, have featured in the programme. The fair has also seen author interactions and book-signing moments that have brought readers closer to writers.

For Khare, the fair offers a chance to place both his titles before a diverse audience while becoming part of Lucknow’s wider literary conversation. With readers moving between familiar classics, contemporary writing and new authors, the atmosphere at Balrampur Garden has been as much about discovering voices as it is about buying books. Khare’s books may be attracting their share of attention, but the larger charm lies in the lively exchange between authors, publishers and an increasingly curious readership.