Bhubaneswar: For over half a century, the Modern Book Depot has been a cornerstone of literary culture in Bhubaneswar. Founded in 1970 by Om Prakash’s father, this iconic bookstore has served as a sanctuary for bibliophiles and a beacon of knowledge in the heart of the city. Now, after 54 years, the bookstore faces potential closure, casting a shadow over its storied legacy.
The lease agreement for the bookstore expired on July 31, and the property owners have issued an eviction notice. “The agreement is over, and despite my requests, the owners are not interested in renewing it,” Prakash explained. For decades, there was no formal agreement with the property owner until two years ago when a written contract was signed. With the lease now expired, Prakash has sought legal recourse, hoping the court will allow him to continue running the bookstore from its current location.
The potential closure of Modern Book Depot has stirred a wave of nostalgia and concern among the city’s readers. Recently, the store garnered significant attention when former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik visited to purchase books post-election, underscoring its enduring importance. For decades, it has been a cherished destination for readers, including renowned writers and high-ranking officials from across Odisha.
Om Prakash, who has been at the helm of the bookstore since he was 20, reflects on its journey. “My father started this bookstore in 1970. My love for books has kept me motivated to run this shop, which is one of the oldest bookstores in Odisha,” he shared. Despite being selected for the National Defence Academy (NDA), Prakash chose to dedicate his life to the bookstore, nurturing a vibrant reading culture in Bhubaneswar.
The Modern Book Depot has been more than just a bookstore; it has been a cultural hub and a community center. “It was a window to the world. We had so many customers that the shop was always crowded. Renowned writers, IPS and IAS officers were regular patrons. We even had customers from Berhampur, Sambalpur, Rourkela, and Cuttack. Most big libraries in Odisha sourced their books from us,” Prakash recalls.
In an age where the internet, mobile phones, and Kindles are reshaping reading habits, the Modern Book Depot has remained a beacon of hope for avid readers. “Earlier, there was a strong reading habit as books were the primary source of recreation and knowledge. Now, with the internet, there’s a mix of good and bad information, which can mislead people,” Prakash notes.
The news of Modern Book Depot’s possible closure has deeply saddened the city’s book lovers, who have been sharing their fond memories of the bookstore. Many are voicing support to save the store or assist Om Prakash in finding a new location near Master Canteen to relocate this cultural and literary landmark.
The outpouring of support from book lovers who share their memories and advocate for the bookstore’s preservation speaks volumes about its impact.
Expressing his deep emotional connection to the bookstore, Prakash shared, “If this bookstore closes, it breaks my heart. My father started this place, and I am deeply attached to it. Shutting down this store in this building is devastating, and I am uncertain about opening it anywhere else.”
Why do people love this bookstore? It’s not just a bookstore; it’s a labor of love led by Om Prakash, a passionate reader himself. He understands the nuances of readers’ tastes and is always ready with thoughtful recommendations for the best books to read.
Despite the challenges, Prakash remains hopeful. “A well-read person will always be attractive. There is nothing like reading and writing,” he emphasizes.
The fate of this iconic bookstore is uncertain, but its legacy in the hearts of readers and book lovers endures. Om Prakash’s hopes that, regardless of the outcome, the spirit of reading and the cultural heritage the bookstore represents will continue to thrive in the city.
Watch the YouTube Video on Modern Book Depot:
With the closure of this bookshop, a part of Bhubaneswar’s heritage will go away.