Dhaka: Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today emphasized that the Amar Ekushey Book Fair serves not only as a marketplace for books but as a critical hub for promoting language, culture, and free thought. He shared these insights during his visit to the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister highlighted the nation’s progress under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, moving beyond a challenging past. The government is focused on fostering an environment conducive to cultural development, creativity, and the promotion of free thought.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam accompanied Chowdhury during the visit. The ministers toured the fairgrounds, engaging with publishers, writers, and readers, and unveiled several newly published books, including “Teenagerder Bolchi” by Sonia Hossain and “Dadur Mukhe Bhasha Andolan” by Syed Didar Bakht.
Nitai Roy Chowdhury expressed that such books would encourage reading habits among the youth and raise awareness about the Language Movement’s history and ethos. He also lauded the growth of the publishing industry and the innovative efforts of emerging writers centered around the book fair.
The event featured notable attendees like the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, the Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the Director General of Bangla Academy, along with distinguished poets, literary figures, and cultural personalities.
State Minister Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam underscored the significance of collaborative efforts by writers, publishers, and readers in enhancing the development of the Bengali language and culture through the book fair.