– Shabana Javed
Kolkata: The Kolkata Book Fair is attracting lakhs of visitors who eagerly explore and purchase their favorite books. This year, Germany has been chosen as the theme country.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair at the Central Park fairgrounds in Salt Lake. Recognised as one of the largest literary gatherings globally, the event is expected to draw millions of visitors from across the country.
However, this year’s fair has seen some notable exclusions. Bangladesh, a regular participant since the fair’s inception, was not granted a stall. The Book Sellers Guild cited security concerns as the reason for this decision, given the ongoing issues within the country.
Markazi Maktaba Islami, which has participated in the fair for the past 27 years, was denied a stall this year. Guild officials have refrained from commenting on the reason behind this decision, leaving visitors who frequent the stall disappointed. Similarly, the Association for Protection of Democratic Rights (APDR), one of Kolkata’s oldest human rights organisations, was also denied a stall.
On the other hand, VHP was initially denied permission but was later allowed to set up a stall following intervention from Calcutta High Court. Meanwhile, Ahmadiyya groups were granted participation, a decision that has sparked discontent among certain sections of people.
During the inauguration, Mamata Banerjee praised the fair, calling it “the best in the country.” She reiterated Bengal’s commitment to unity in diversity, stating, “We respect every religion, caste, creed, and language – this has always been our culture.”
She also addressed past criticism regarding Kolkata’s blue-and-white roads, clarifying that her intention was to symbolise limitless possibilities, rather than imitating Argentina’s flag.
Esteemed Bengali writer Abul Bashar was honoured with the Lifetime Literary Award, which includes a special prize of Rs.2lakh from the Publishers and Booksellers Guild.
