Old faithful bookstore at Deccan. Review on The International Bookhouse - Pune

One of the oldest literary landmarks of Pune, International Book Service is an institution in itself. What Manney's is to Pune Camp, International Book Service is to Deccan Gymkhana. Located at the corner of Deccan and Karve Road, in downtown Pune, it's easily accessible and its unique repertoire of books makes it a favorite haunt for the student and the connoisseur alike.

There is a story, maybe apocryphal, that when the Indira Gandhi, in her younger days, was looking for a rare book, Jawaharlal Nehru told her to try International Book Service in Pune.

As you enter you find the latest bestsellers in front of you, but delve to the racks on your right to find rare gems from topics ranging pertaining from filmmaking to history to biographies to languages and literature.( you can find the most economical editions of literary classics here - that's why this place is a favorite of students). Budding creative writers and playwrights will find interesting books here at affordable prices.

Browse at the rear end for Management and Technical books, and turn to the well stocked shelves filled with philosophical, spiritial and religious works and those on self-help and hobbies. There is a good collection of Marathi and Children's books too.

I never miss their occasional fairs and discount sales and have picked up excellent and rare books at unbelievable prices.

When in Pune, a browse at International Book Service at Deccan is a must for all booklovers. You will love its traditional old world charm and ambience sans the glitz and commercialism of the more modern bookstores which are spawning all over.

Reviewed by VIKRAM KARVE

vikramkarve@sify.com