Our
Story
Founded on October 21, 2018, by Dhara Thakkar and Hastha Narayan, Bookaholics stands as Mangalore's first and largest book club. Guided by the motto, “For book lovers, by book lovers,” it has blossomed into an inclusive, no-cost community that wholeheartedly celebrates the art of reading. What initially began as a platform for book reviews has since evolved into a dynamic space that hosts reading sessions, storytelling events, workshops, and various initiatives in schools and organizations. In June 2024, Bookaholics expanded its reach with the launch of a Mumbai chapter and the inception of Bookaholics Junior, a branch dedicated to inspiring young readers with the tagline “Books and Beyond.” With “Coffee, Books, and More” as its essence, the club actively supports authors, bookstores, and book bloggers, while furthering the cause of reading through donation drives and community initiatives.
Mission
“To cultivate a vibrant and welcoming community where stories come alive, connections are nurtured, and the love for books is shared over coffee and meaningful conversations. We strive to inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and celebrate the timeless joy of reading.”
Vision
“To be a sanctuary for book lovers, where every story finds its voice, and every reader discovers a sense of belonging. Through the fusion of coffee, books, and enriching experiences, we aim to ignite a lifelong passion for literature and the connections it fosters.”
Meet The Team
CA Hastha Narayan: Co-Founder & Community Head
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Hastha Narayan is the heart and guiding force of Bookaholics. As co-founder, she has led the community with vision, care, and quiet resilience—from its revival in 2022 to the vibrant literary space it is today. Her leadership is rooted in a deep belief in the power of stories to connect people and build lasting communities.
K Ashwin Pai: Lead, Events & Experiences
An entrepreneur and the founder of ByLife Solutions, a marketing and brand identity advisory, Ashwin focuses on curating thoughtful events that bring readers together. His approach turns simple meetups into meaningful experiences, creating spaces where stories and conversations naturally thrive.
Anoop Pai B: Lead, Tech, Operations & Meetups
An ambigrapher by profession, Anoop manages the systems that keep Bookaholics running smoothly. From coordinating meetups and handling technical requirements to supporting internal operations, he ensures seamless experiences behind the scenes.
Praveen M N: Lead, Library & Book Donations
An oil and gas professional with a strong appreciation for stories in all forms, Praveen oversees Bookaholics’ library and book donation initiatives. He brings structure, curiosity, and a strong sense of community to his role, firmly believing that every shared book strengthens learning, connection, and collective curiosity.
Dr. Ananya Madiyal: Lead, Communications & Design
A dentist with a creative soul, Ananya shapes the voice and visual identity of Bookaholics. From posters and digital creatives to captions and storytelling, her work reflects the warmth, depth, and inclusive spirit of the community.
Sharon Diaz: Core Team Member- Library
A former IT professional currently pursuing her Masters in Social Work, Sharon has been an integral part of Bookaholics’ library and donation journey. While away from Mangaluru, she continues to remain closely associated with the community’s library initiatives and values as part of the extended core team.