Pages Unveiled: An Interview with Anuj Bahri Malhotra, Owner of Bahrisons Booksellers

Bahrisons Booksellers stands tall as a testament to the enduring love for literature, a cozy sanctuary where pages whisper stories, and shelves embrace wisdom. For over seven decades, this treasured haven has been a source of delight and knowledge for bibliophiles, nestling in the heart of Delhi's Khan Market. The legacy commenced in 1953 when Balraj Bahri Malhotra, armed with a modest collection of 1,000 books, breathed life into an 800-square-foot bookstore. From this humble beginning, a literary empire bloomed.

The soul of Bahrisons resides not merely in its books but in the enchanting experience, it offers. While digital platforms beckon modern readers, this haven remains steadfast, catering to a niche of aficionados who cherish the tactile embrace of a book, the delicate scent of pages, the joy of perusing aisles, and the allure of meaningful conversations with kindred spirits. Anuj Bahri Malhotra, the torchbearer of this cherished legacy, embraces the dreams of his father and his own, vowing to quench every visitor's literary thirst.

The bookstore's history, etched in pages of dedication, reflects an unwavering commitment to its patrons. Bahrisons, a name synonymous with warmth and knowledge, welcomed book lovers, scholars, diplomats, authors, and luminaries alike into its fold. Its treasure trove of over one lakh titles, including diverse genres from history to biographies, stands as a testament to its passion for catering to the nuanced tastes of its clientele.

In the intricate web of this literary haven, stories abound. The store's resilience is evident in its rare closures, occurring only twice in 70 years, each marking a poignant moment—the passing of Anuj's father and the unprecedented lockdown due to the pandemic. Despite trials, Bahrisons emerged stronger, ensuring readers had access to books even during trying times. The ethos of familial bonding and personal connections underscores every facet of Bahrisons, instilling a sense of belonging that transcends physical borders.

Anuj, an integral part of this legacy since his teenage years, acknowledges the transformation brought about by time. With a team driven solely by their passion for books, he has nurtured an environment of personalized care, valuing trust over-exploitation. The stories of dedicated staff members like Mithilesh Singh, who embodies a sponge-like enthusiasm for books, add depth to the store's narrative.

The bookstore's evolution mirrors Anuj's visionary approach. Balancing tradition with innovation, Bahrisons embarked on ventures like the RedInk literary agency and the revival of Tara India Research Press. Despite the digital age's threats, Bahrisons flourishes in its expansion to 10 stores across various cities a testament to its enduring spirit.

Beyond its commercial success, Bahrisons stands as a beacon of personalized service, commitment to readers, and fostering a culture of shared knowledge. The legacy meticulously passed down through generations and imbibed by every staff member culminates in a unique blend of familial warmth and professional excellence.

In an exclusive conversation, Anuj Bahri Malhotra shared insights into Bahrisons’ legacy and vision, offering a glimpse into the heart of this beloved bookstore. Anuj’s dedication, combined with the relentless commitment of the entire Bahrisons family, underscores their unwavering resolve to continue shaping literary landscapes for generations to come.

Excerpts from the Interview :

Q1) "The Chronicle of a Bookshop" beautifully captures the journey of Bahrisons over its 70 years of existence. Could you share a bit about the inception of Bahrisons and the significant milestones that shaped its rich history?

Anuj Sir: The seed of a bookstore was sown in the fertile ground of determination and resilience, nurtured by the unwavering spirit of a young man amidst the uncertainties of the post-partition era.

Balraj Bahri, my father, embodied a steadfast resolve to carve a path of dignity and success in an unfamiliar city where adversity loomed large. Joblessness was never a viable option for him; instead, he embarked on a humble yet astute journey as a bookseller in New Delhi.

Q2) In an age dominated by digital reading and online purchases, Bahrisons continues to thrive as a beloved physical bookstore. What do you attribute this enduring success to, amidst the changing landscape of book-buying habits?

Anuj Sir: Books stand as perennial companions in a person's life, an ever-reliable refuge for those solitary moments and aimless hours. They are the steadfast friends we yearn for when solitude envelops us. Despite the vast landscape of digital reading options, the priceless sensation of holding a book, flipping through its pages, and feeling its weight in our hands evokes an irreplaceable joy.

Often, when a book captivates us in the digital realm, the instinctual longing emerges to possess its physical form, adorning our libraries or collections. In essence, our role is simple: bridging the gap between the pleasure of reading and the comfort of ownership. Our bookstore stands as a beacon, ever ready to assist and connect readers with their desired realms of literary satisfaction. As long as there exists even a single reader yearning to explore our collection, our dedication to this cause will endure.

Q3) The bookstore holds a treasure trove of diverse genres. How do you curate such an extensive collection, and what philosophy guides your selection process for the books offered at Bahrisons?

Anuj Sir: Our fundamental philosophy revolves around a deep understanding of our readers' needs. Central to our approach is a commitment to listen intently and allow their preferences to chart our course. While a dedicated team of 5-6 individuals curates collections across all our stores, it's truly the tastes and desires of our customers that serve as our compass in ensuring a diverse and compelling collection year-round. Our customers, in essence, stand as our primary guides, illuminating the path toward a well-rounded and satisfying selection.

Q4) Bahrisons seems to be more than just a bookstore; it's a community hub for book lovers. Can you share a memorable instance that illustrates the unique connections and experiences fostered within its walls?

Anuj Sir: Our customers are an extension of our family, forging generational connections that span from grandparents to great-grandchildren. Within these relationships reside a tapestry of intertwined stories and cherished memories, weaving together the essence of our journey.

Q5) As a significant part of Delhi's cultural fabric, Bahrisons must have witnessed numerous transformations. How has the bookstore evolved to stay relevant while maintaining its distinctive charm over the years?

Anuj Sir: As purveyors of books, our methods of operation have undergone a transformative evolution. Transitioning from traditional retail bookselling to embracing online platforms and digital media, our journey encapsulates a full circle of change. Yet, the enduring essence lies in living with intent, dedicated to the service we offer. As long as our purpose remains rooted in serving others, relevance will naturally find its place in our existence.

Q6) "The Chronicle of a Bookshop" delves into your journey - becoming a successful entrepreneur in the Indian literary world. What were some of the most challenging and rewarding moments along this path?

Anuj Sir: The respect that my family has earned in a world that was alien to us, is the biggest reward that anyone could ask for – and that, the people of this great country have showered us with in abundance. This is our greatest take from the humble work and service that we offer.

Q7) Beyond being a place for selling books, Bahrisons appears to be a sanctuary for readers seeking an immersive experience. How do you cultivate an environment encouraging book exploration, discussions, and interactions among visitors?

Anuj Sir: Initially, avoid placing labels on shelves as that will spark curiosity and encourage browsing.

Secondly, refrain from interrupting a new reader while they skim through a book. They need to gain confidence in understanding the content.

Lastly, allow individuals the freedom to explore the space without interference. Leave them alone to explore🙂

Q8) The bookstore has undoubtedly seen a surge in various reading formats. How do you balance catering to both traditional book enthusiasts and those exploring e-reading options within the bookstore's ethos?

Anuj Sir: Both formats—print and digital—are akin to various beverages; everyone has their preferred choice. What matters most is that the reader is engaged in reading and purchasing. Let them choose the medium they find most comfortable. Ultimately, regardless of their choice, there's still a gain for the bookstore.🙂

Q9) Delhi has a vibrant literary scene. How does Bahrisons contribute to and engage with this community, whether through events, partnerships, or initiatives supporting local authors and readers?

Anuj Sir: BAHRISONS thrives on supporting and promoting local authors, valuing their work immensely. Author signings catalyze like-minded individuals to gather and connect, fostering a sense of community. Each contribution, no matter how small, plays a significant role in this endeavor.

Q10) The book market has seen rapid changes globally. What makes an independent bookstore like Bahrisons stand out and thrive in an era dominated by larger chains and online retailers?

Just follow the advice below ↓

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Q11) "The Chronicle of a Bookshop" captures the essence of Bahrisons. Could you elaborate on how the writing process for this book unfolded and what you hope readers will take away from the story of your bookstore's history?

It’s just a journey that life offered, that we have documented.

It is one man’s quest to decently support his family with respect and gratitude. 

mushkil nahi is duniya main

kuch haasil kar pana

zakhmon ko agar marham kar lo

kya hakeeqat kya afsaana

If any of my readers here, wish to know more about this fascinating independent bookstore and their undying spirit concerning the books. Do open the links mentioned below. They have a wonderful informative, articulated, and well-curated website. It has all the essential details about the upcoming author events as well as their latest book offerings!

Website :

https://www.booksatbahri.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bahrisons.booksellers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bahrisons_booksellers/

Twitter : https://twitter.com/Bahrisons_books