Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, today released the book ‘Himachal- Sanskritik Avam Prakritik Paryatan’ authored by Prof. Mohan Maitreya, a renowned educationist. The book contains descriptive compilation of information of different places of interest to tourists and temples of different deities to cater to the informative requirements of devotees visiting Himachal Pradesh. He also released two other publications ‘Talash’ and ‘Jeevan Ek Aiyana’ authored by Ms. Vidhu Matreya Bhanot.

Chief Minister congratulated the authors for their maiden ventures and the efforts they had put in bringing out the publications. He said that the book on Himachal was one of the finest collection of data with regard to the places of tourist interest and temples etc. which would not only benefit the tourists but the research scholars working on such projects. He said that the details of places and its historic background would generate interest amongst the visitors to know the place better through their personal visits. He said that the publication was bound to inspire the budding writers to explore greater horizons available in naturally beautiful State of Himachal Pradesh so that the unexplored and virgin locations in the State were known to people around the world.

Prof. Dhumal said that literature was universally acknowledged as the binding force which integrates the society with the bond of universal brotherhood. He said that literature knew no bounds and the ideology could impress readers from any part of the world. He said that literature was instrumental in spreading the message of good will, peace and social harmony. He hoped that Prof. Maitreya would continue with his writings in future as well and come out with more publications to guide and inspire the society at large.

Shri Naresh Kaushal, Editor, Dainik Tribune, said that the book had provided a peep into the rich geographical condition, art, culture, folk dances and other aspects of life in Himachal Pradesh and were interesting to the readers who were inquisitive about knowing Himachal Pradesh more. He said that good literature required good litterateurs which was possible only through long experience and hard work. He said that literature had been responsible in removal of mental barriers and unite the world emotionally. He hoped that the book would be useful to the general readers and research scholars as well.

Prof. Mohan Maitreya, author of the book, welcomed the Chief Minister and thanked him for inspiring him to write a book on Himachal Pradesh. He shared his memories of the time he remained in Shimla and the experience he gained during the period. He said that a second edition of the publication was also being compiled to detail remaining aspects of life of people of Himachal Pradesh.

Shri Santosh Kumar, a veteran journalist and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.