Bangladesh missing from Kolkata Book Fair list

For the first time in 28 years, Bangladesh has not found mention as a participating country in the Kolkata International Book Fair schedule that was released on Friday.

The absence of Bangladesh has sparked questions about the participation of bookstores and Bangladeshi authors. Nonetheless, their works will be available through Indian publishers. 

The fair, set to open by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expects a massive turnout and substantial book sales, emphasizing its global significance.

Traditionally, Bangladesh has been a significant participant, except in 2007 and 2021 when the fair did not occur. However, the current scenario in Bangladesh, particularly the visa impasse, has hampered efforts to include the nation. Guild officials are consulting with the Ministry of External Affairs and the state government for further guidance on the matter.

The neighbouring country has featured in every edition of the city book fair since 1996, when the Sheikh Hasina govt came to office in Bangladesh. 

In 1999, Hasina herself attended the fair when Bangladesh was the theme country. 

As of now, countries participating in the book fair include the UK, US, France, Italy, Spain, Peru, Argentina, Colombia, with Germany as theme country for the first time.

The 48th Kolkata International Book Fair (KIBF), organised by Publishers and Booksellers Guild, will be held between Jan 28 and Feb 9 at Salt Lake. Like previous years, CM Mamata Banerjee will inaugurate the book fair.

Source: Agencies