(image: betterindia/Ahmdabad mirror)
Once upon a time in Ahmedabad, two college friends—Heet Doshi and Om Thakkar—were sitting in Parimal Garden, dreaming big. They had just discovered Kerala’s famous “Book Village” in Perumkulam through social media, where people could freely pick up and read books in public spaces.
Heet said, “Imagine if we had something like this in our city!”
Om smiled, “Let’s make it happen!”
Together, they created a unique concept called Book & Box—a large box filled with around 30 books, placed in public parks. Anyone could come, read a book, borrow one, or even donate their own. Soon, people started gathering—kids, elders, students—all drawn to the world of stories.
Some asked, “What if someone steals the books?”
Heet replied with a smile, “Readers don’t steal. And those who steal, never read.”
By November 2024, they planned to install six such boxes across major parks in Ahmedabad. Each box costs around ₹5,000–₹6,000 and welcomes donations—books or financial support. This initiative not only offers free access to books but also brings people together—reading side by side, sharing stories, donating books, and building a sense of community.