The Youngest Publisher Sajas Rahman And His 'Bibliophilic Insanities'
Kozhikode: In the crowded and often commercially driven world of publishing, one name stands out for its idealism, grit, and youth: Sajas Rahman. At just 25, he is widely recognised as Kerala’s youngest publisher, the co-founder and heart behind ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’ – a publishing venture born not in a corporate boardroom, but on Instagram during the COVID-19 lockdown.
It all began on October 14, 2020. As the world reeled from isolation, Sajas and his circle of book-loving friends created an Instagram page dedicated to reviews and book aesthetics. What started as a digital haven for bibliophiles soon evolved into something far more ambitious: a mission to democratise access to books.
By 2021, ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’ had taken physical form in the shape of a bookstall. It wasn’t just about selling stories; it was about making literature affordable. The co-founders, a diverse bunch of students from various academic streams including medicine, paramedical sciences, and central universities, realised how inaccessible books had become. Determined to change that, they chose to keep prices low, putting their ideals ahead of profits.
Bibliophilic Insanities founders
But noble intentions don’t pay bills. The venture soon plunged into debt, testing the resolve of everyone involved. Yet, at the centre of it all stood Sajas, a steady hand guiding the ship through stormy waters. Despite grappling with personal medical challenges, he refused to let the dream sink. His optimism never faltered; he stood firm, a beacon of resilience and belief.
The pandemic brought a silver lining: a surge in reading culture across Kerala. ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’ capitalised on this cultural moment by doubling down on their affordable pricing strategy. But even as books flew off their shelves, the team barely made ends meet. Yet, they pushed on, driven by something far more valuable than financial gain.
As they ventured deeper into the publishing world, the group encountered disturbing industry realities. They discovered how budding authors were routinely exploited through hidden charges and received little to no marketing support from established publishers. This reinforced their commitment: to publish new voices, affordably and ethically.
Their first publication, ‘Tasawwuf, by Dr Saifudheen Kunju, marked a turning point. The book’s warm reception reaffirmed their mission and boosted their confidence. Dr Saifudheen, a faculty at the University of Madras, described Sajas as “the epitome of what makes a person fall in love with books.”
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“His relentless pursuit—along with his team—for quality content has gifted the reading community with some truly remarkable works. The energy he brings to publishing is extraordinary and bound to create wonders in the industry,” Dr Saifudheen, who later published another work ‘Turkey’ with Sajas, adds.
Since then, the catalogue has expanded exponentially. With over 20 titles now under their belt, the team has grown into a formidable collective of editors and creatives – 15 editors scattered across India, including one from Kashmir. They operate entirely online. From book selection to design and editing, everything is done digitally, culminating in physical offset printing only at the final stage.
Their publishing journey has not just been about producing books; it’s been about nurturing dreams. Many first-time authors have described the moment they hold their book as akin to cradling a newborn. For ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’, according to those who work behind it, this emotional resonance is sacred. They go beyond publishing, investing in promotion, distribution, and reader engagement.
Where It All Began: The Instagram Origins of Bibliophilic Insanities
Among their successful titles are ‘Roohukalude Parudheesa’ by Shahana, ‘The Adventure of BRANKS’ by Khulood Salam, ‘Chemanna Manushyar’ by KPJ Purangu, ‘Theeram Paranja Kadha’ by Kausar Beegum, ‘Treat English; English Bhasha Sahayi’ by Anas Jouhari CRPF, ‘Kadal’ by Farshana, ‘Sebriyenna Midukki’ by AA Jaleel, ‘Thavasreeyude Kadhakal’ by Misha Ravi, ‘Shadows across the distance’ by Neethu Raj, ‘Ezhukalude Pusthakam’ by Pavisankar AR, ‘Ruhun Ruhum’ by Imad Ameen, ‘Puthucheriyude pookkaalam’ by Ashikha Khanam, ‘Ente Priyapetta Miyavo’ by Hanna Mehthar, ‘Pranayasaurayudhangal’ by Athila Hussain, and ‘An Apology Long Overdue‘ by Nikitha Ramanarayanan. The list includes authors from varied backgrounds, genres, and geographies, reinforcing the team’s commitment to inclusivity.
Upcoming titles such as ‘The Chronicles of Four Allies’ by Safa Thanseer, ‘Fragment’ by Hadiya Binth Fasil, ‘Marubhoomiyile Kadalasu Pookkal’ by Hisham Kp, ‘Kasumi’ by Soorya V, ‘Sandra Sthalikal’ by Abdul Kalam, ‘Ente Kinav’ by VP Jameela, and ‘Vakkukaliloode’ by Muhsina PM are already generating buzz. Their editorial board, spanning the state and beyond, meticulously nurtures each manuscript, maintaining the group’s hallmark of quality.
What truly distinguishes ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’ is its vibrant team structure. It has grown into an ecosystem: 7 founders, 70 members, 10 directors, 15 editors, 10 sub-editors, 6 coordinators, and 22 executive members. Importantly, women play a pivotal role. From leadership positions to author representation, women are central to the venture’s heartbeat.
They frequently organise book fairs across Kerala, promoting a wide selection from almost every regional publisher. These events aren’t just commercial platforms; they’re cultural experiences that connect writers with readers and celebrate the written word.
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Their motto is simple, heartfelt, and revolutionary: to provide affordable, author-friendly service. The team refers to the final published book as the author’s “book baby,” and their mission is to turn dreams into reality. Future plans include publishing in multiple Indian languages and expanding their presence across India.
Sajas, who turned a publisher at 20, lives with his parents, Jasmin and E S Asharaf, and his brothers Huvais Ashraaf and Ejas Al Rahman, in Alappuzha’s Kayamkulam. A scholar in Arabic Translation, Urdu Correspondence, and Sociology, he is also a published author. His books ‘Priyappetta Manushyarude Lokam’ and ‘Ilahinulla Kathukal’ were quick sell-outs, requiring second editions.
Reflecting on his journey, Sajas shares: “Creating a just society is something that happens between writing and reading. But this is also what allows me to reveal the dreams and emotions of many people. When I get this in my hands as a book, the love, joy, and happiness of the author inspires me to publish books again. I feel that these books really reveal what they have to say about the reader. What pushes me for more is that other people find themselves through this venture.”
Author Nikitha Ramanarayanan, whose book was published by Sajas, says: “I came to know about Sajas and Bibliophilic Insanities through a friend and got interested in publishing my book with them. What stood out to me first was that it’s a group of young people who are passionate about books and literature… My manuscript went through multiple rounds of editing and proofreading. Most importantly, they offer very affordable charges, making it easier for writers like me to fulfil our publishing dreams.”
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More than a publishing house, ‘Bibliophilic Insanities’ has become a movement. It is proof that passion, when backed by purpose and perseverance, can rewrite industry norms. In the literary world of Kerala and beyond, the name Sajas Rahman is no longer just the youngest publisher – he is, unmistakably, one of the bravest.
(Bibliophilic Insanities books are available at bibliophilic.in.)
