Dhaka: Stressing the profound impact of reading, Food Minister Afroza Khanam on Monday said books are not merely objects to be read, but powerful tools that bridge the past, present, and future. “Books do not just impart knowledge; they ignite our power of thought, teach us to embrace history, and guide us toward the future,” she said while addressing a discussion session at the Zia Smriti Book Fair 2026 at the Bangla Academy premises.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the event was arranged by the Zia Smriti Pathagar to mark the 48th founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The Minister emphasized that a book opens the door to the past, helps us understand the present, and inspires us to think about the future. Therefore, she noted, a book is not merely for reading; it is a medium for learning.
Drawing a contrast between digital devices and physical books, the Minister highlighted the unique connection that physical books offer. “You have mobile phones in your hands, and access to many things, but when you hold a physical book, the heart of the person featured in it converges with yours. You can truly feel the essence of the person you are reading about,” she explained. She shared a personal sentiment, saying, “When I hold and read a book written by my father, I feel as though he is right beside me, watching over what I am doing.”
Minister Khanam urged the younger generation, particularly political activists present, to learn about the country’s history and the vision of its leaders through reading. She stressed the importance of understanding history to comprehend the present and pave the way for the future. “If you don’t know history, you cannot understand the present; and if you do not understand the present, you cannot pave the way for the future. So, you must read, learn, and think,” she added.
Expressing concern over reports of low book sales, the minister made a heartfelt appeal to the youth: “I request everyone to reduce their mobile phone expenses slightly and use that money to buy at least one book.” The event, chaired by BNP Joint Secretary General Syed Emran Saleh Prince, featured speeches from the Prime Minister’s Adviser on education Mahdi Amin, Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, MP, and Mahmuda Habiba, MP, among others. Later, the guests visited various book stalls at the fair.