Bhubaneswar’s Oldest Bookstore, Modern Book Depot, Closes After Lease Dispute

Bhubaneswar: The shutters of Modern Book Depot, Bhubaneswar’s oldest and most cherished bookstore, have come down permanently. Located in the bustling Master Canteen area, this iconic bookstore had been a beloved destination for book lovers, intellectuals, and politicians for over five decades. However, after a rent agreement expired on July 31, the store’s fate was sealed when the building owner refused to renew the lease.

Despite persistent efforts by Om Prakash, the store’s dedicated owner, to negotiate a new lease, the building owner decided to lock the premises, ending the store’s long-standing legacy. On Saturday, Prakash was granted two days to remove the remaining books and empty the store, marking a sad end to an era.

The closure of Modern Book Depot is a significant cultural loss for Bhubaneswar. For over 50 years, this bookstore served as a hub for bibliophiles and a cultural landmark in the city. Om Prakash, who took over the store at the age of 20, cultivated an atmosphere that attracted not just everyday readers but also bureaucrats, writers, and politicians. The store’s importance was highlighted recently when former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik visited the shop after the 2024 election.

Reflecting on the closure, Om Prakash shared his plans for the future: “I have taken all the books and shelves to my house in Surya Nagar. I’m planning to operate from there only, as I can’t afford the huge rents.”

This closure stands in stark contrast to cities like Kolkata, where cultural institutions such as cafés, libraries, and bookstores—many of which have been operating for centuries—continue to thrive. These places are more than just businesses; they are vital pieces of the city’s history, proudly preserved by the community.

In Bhubaneswar, however, the story has taken a different path. The city has now lost its oldest bookstore, a piece of its literary heritage that will be deeply missed.

Though Modern Book Depot’s iconic storefront may be gone, Om Prakash’s passion for books remains undiminished, and he hopes to continue serving the community from a new location, keeping the spirit of the bookstore alive.