The Bombay Zine Fest Is Back And Bigger Than Ever

For many years, one name has dominated the city’s zine scene - Bombay Underground. They consistently provide space and support for artists and writers across the country, and are always working towards new endeavours to promote the reach of the written word. This month they’re back with the third iteration of the Bombay Zine Fest a collaboration of minds from all spheres gathering under one roof to begin a nationwide zine uprising. By their own definition, a zine is “most commonly a small-circulation self-published work of original or appropriated texts and images usually reproduced using a photocopier, printing press or just paper and pen.” A perfect description for the dissident art form that is zines.

For so long the act of actually holding and exploring a new piece of literature was lost in the e-reader haze but it’s making a steady comeback as people reconnect with the value of a physical connection. No amount of swiping and backlighting can mimic the sound of a turning page. Bombay Underground has always backed that commitment to the return of paper. As founders Himanshu and Aqui describe it, “We formed as a need to actively and constructively better our own lives and the world we want to live in.” Bringing together the zine fest is just another way to connect people away from the constant barrage of social media, and allow people to share their passions, stories and expertise with a like-minded community “It’s an amazing way to get a conversation started, and make something big happen in our community.”

With over 300 original zines from around the world on display as well as many of their creators in attendance, this is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the burgeoning zine culture. You’ll get a first-hand look at what goes in to creating a zine, how the medium has evolved over time and the role zines play in giving a voice to marginalised communities and divergent opinions. There will also be an opportunity to lend your creative voice to a page in their collective zine that will be displayed after the fest. This is set to be the start of a nationwide tour across all the major cities and their also hoping to set up a zine library in Mumbai to provide a permanent home for the many zines they’ve helped curate over the years.

When: 9th - 11th March, 12 p.m to 8:30 p.m

Where: Kitab Mahal, fourth floor, Above Ministry of New, 192, D.N Road, Mumbai