Chief minister Nitish Kumar releasing a number of books and documentaries on the state's past glory and present resurgence, at the inaugural function of Bihar Diwas celebrations at the Gandhi Maidan.

"The idea is to make the young generation aware of the renaissance and honour those who have contributed to the progress of the state," said a senior state official. 

The books include 'Aadhunik Bihar Ka Srijan 1858-2012' by historian V C P Chaudhary, 'History of Bihar' by Radhakrishna Chaudhary and 'Mere Sansmaran' by Anugrah Narayan Singh. The Hindi translation of 'Bihar Through The Ages', written by former Bihar governor R R Diwakar, along with photographs of historical and archaeological sites of the state  released besides a book and audio CD prepared by Hriday Narayan Jha on the importance of Maithili folk songs. 

The CM  also released a book on the folk art and craft written by theatre activist Shyam Sharma; two coffee table books 'Rediscovering Bihar' published by The Times of India group and 'Celebrating Bihar: The Charm of Champaran' of IPS officer Nishant Tiwary. Another audio CD on Bihari dance forms and plays, prepared by senior theatre artist Kunal, was also be unveiled. 

The documentaries t released include a 45-minute docu 'Sunahare Dastaan Bihar Ki Bhoomi Se', directed by famous filmmaker Prakash Jha. The film will be screened at the Cinepolis at P&M Mall and at the Gandhi Maidan during the Bihar Diwas celebrations. 

The other documentaries include the ones on Holi songs directed by Neetu Kumari under the banner of 'Sursangram Kala Sansthan'; on Maithili folk songs directed by Prashant Kumar; on archaeological sites of Bihar by Vijay Kumar Chaudhary and a 45-minute movie 'Ganga: Ateet Se Ab Tak' by Maati Films Limited. 

The chief minister  also honour Bihar anthem lyricist Satya Narayan and Bihar 'prarthana' song lyricist M R Chishti with the prize money of Rs one lakh each. Besides, several artists of the state will be honoured for their contribution to their respective fields. While the senior artists will be given Rs 35,000 each, the junior ones will get Rs 10,000 each.