For the second consecutive year, publishers from Bangladesh will be unable to participate in the 49th Kolkata International Book Fair, one of the world’s largest non-commercial literary festivals. The cancellation of Bangladesh’s pavilion marks a significant absence for both the participating authors and the thousands of readers who traditionally flock to the event to explore Bangladeshi literature.
Historically, Bangladeshi publishers have enjoyed strong representation at the Kolkata Book Fair, with local and international visitors showing great interest in works by Bangladesh’s leading authors. Books from Dhaka have often generated high sales and widespread appreciation among the fair’s diverse audience. However, following the political unrest in Bangladesh during July–August 2024 and the subsequent assumption of power by an interim government, Bangladeshi participation was suspended last year. Unfortunately, the situation has not changed this year.
Tridib Chatterjee, Secretary General of the Publishers & Booksellers Guild, the organisers of the fair, stated:
“Bangladesh expressed interest in taking part in this year’s fair. However, given the current state of India–Bangladesh relations and the absence of the necessary approvals from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, we are unable to permit their participation officially. That said, should any Bangladeshi books be displayed at other stalls, we have no objection.”
The Consulate General of Bangladesh in Kolkata has corroborated this information. Meanwhile, another regular participant, the United States, will also be absent this year due to budgetary constraints.
Despite these gaps, the 49th edition of the fair is introducing several notable changes. Ukraine will participate for the first time, while China returns after a 15-year hiatus. This year’s theme country is Argentina. Overall, the fair will host over 1,000 stalls from local Indian publishers as well as exhibitors from other Indian states, with a total of 21 countries represented.
The fair is set to open on 22 January 2026 at the Salt Lake City permanent venue, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officiating the inauguration. Recognised as one of the world’s largest non-commercial book fairs, it continues to be a premier gathering point for readers, writers, and publishers alike, celebrating the shared love of literature.
International Participation Snapshot
| Country/Region | Participation Status | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | No | Political approval not obtained |
| United States | No | Budgetary approval not granted |
| China | Yes | Returns after 15-year hiatus |
| Ukraine | Yes | First-time participant |
| Argentina | Yes | This year’s theme country |
| India | Yes | Local and other state publishers present |
The 49th Kolkata International Book Fair promises to remain a vibrant platform where international and local publishers, alongside avid readers, converge to celebrate literature in all its forms.