Nestled in the scenic hills of Maharashtra, the quaint village of Bhilar has transformed into a unique haven for book lovers. Famously known as India’s “Village of Books,” Bhilar is inspired by the concept of “Hay-on-Wye” in Wales, UK, a town celebrated for its abundance of bookstores. However, what makes Bhilar stand out is its innovative approach—rather than being filled with bookstores, it has turned homes, public spaces, and temples into vibrant reading rooms, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for bibliophiles.
In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the story behind Bhilar’s transformation, what makes it special, and why it has become a must-visit destination for book lovers in India.
1. The Birth of India’s Village of Books
Bhilar, a small village located in the Satara district, close to the popular hill station Panchgani, was traditionally known for its strawberry farming. However, in 2017, the Maharashtra government launched an ambitious initiative to turn this charming village into a literary hotspot. Under the “Pustakanche Gaav” (Village of Books) project, Bhilar’s residents converted nearly 25 locations—private homes, temples, and community halls—into open-access libraries and reading spaces.
The aim of this project was not just to promote the habit of reading among locals and visitors but also to boost cultural tourism in the region. Bhilar quickly gained national attention as India’s first “book village,” with an initial collection of over 15,000 books in Marathi, soon expanding to include Hindi and English titles.
2. A Literary Treasure Trove
What sets Bhilar apart is its immersive reading environment. The village offers more than just a few scattered libraries—every corner of Bhilar has been thoughtfully designed to encourage reading. Residents have opened their homes to display carefully curated collections of books, often on specific genres or themes.
Each reading space in Bhilar offers a unique experience. Some areas focus on classical literature, while others house books on history, biographies, poetry, and even children’s literature. Local artists have painted the village with murals and quotes from famous authors, further enhancing the village’s literary charm.
For those who prefer open-air reading, Bhilar also boasts peaceful outdoor spots where visitors can sit under a tree and dive into a book while enjoying the serene beauty of the surrounding hills.
3. Promoting Regional Literature and Culture
One of Bhilar’s primary goals is to promote Marathi literature and the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra. With the majority of the books in the village written in Marathi, visitors are introduced to the works of iconic Marathi authors like P.L. Deshpande, Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar, Vijaya Mehta, and Bhalchandra Nemade.
While Marathi literature takes center stage, Bhilar’s reading spaces also offer books in Hindi and English, making it accessible to readers from different linguistic backgrounds. The village often hosts literary events, book readings, and cultural programs, celebrating the diverse literary traditions of India.
4. A Boost to Tourism and Education
Bhilar’s transformation into a village of books has not only revitalized the local economy through tourism but also provided educational opportunities for its residents. The influx of book lovers and cultural tourists has led to the development of homestays, cafes, and guided tours around the village. Visitors often pair their literary adventures with a trip to nearby Panchgani or Mahabaleshwar, making it a delightful experience that combines leisure, nature, and literature.
For local students, access to such a wide range of books has been a game-changer. Many children who had limited access to libraries now have the opportunity to engage with books daily, improving literacy rates and encouraging a culture of reading from a young age.
5. A Tranquil Escape for Bibliophiles
Bhilar’s serene atmosphere, nestled amid the rolling hills and strawberry farms, offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors often describe the village as a “paradise for book lovers,” where they can lose themselves in a book while being surrounded by nature. Whether it’s a quiet morning spent with a cup of tea and a novel or a lively discussion with fellow readers at one of the village’s literary events, Bhilar has something to offer every book enthusiast.
6. How to Visit Bhilar: Practical Information
If you’re planning a trip to Bhilar, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Location: Bhilar is located between Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, making it easily accessible from both hill stations.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Bhilar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the surrounding hills are lush with greenery.
- Accommodation: While Bhilar itself has a few homestays and guesthouses, visitors can also stay in Panchgani or Mahabaleshwar and make a day trip to the village.
- Book Collections: The village primarily offers books in Marathi, but you’ll also find a growing selection of books in Hindi and English.
- Things to Do: Aside from reading, visitors can explore the local strawberry farms, hike in the nearby Western Ghats, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Conclusion
Bhilar, India’s very own Village of Books, is a testament to how literature can transform a community. What began as an initiative to promote reading has evolved into a thriving cultural hub that celebrates regional literature and provides a peaceful escape for book lovers. Whether you’re a die-hard bibliophile or simply someone looking for a tranquil retreat, Bhilar offers a unique experience that combines the love of books with the beauty of rural India.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Maharashtra, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Bhilar—a village where books are the heart and soul of the community.
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