Dhaka: Amar Ekushey Boi Mela, the country’s largest annual month-long literary event, began today embodying the spirit of the Language Movement and the rich cultural heritage of the Bengali nation, with this year’s theme set as ‘Multidimensional Bangladesh.’ Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated Amar Ekushey Book Fair-2026 at 2:00 pm as the chief guest. On the occasion, he also handed over the Bangla Academy Literary Award 2025 among the recipients.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam also addressed the programme, chaired by Bangla Academy President Professor Abul Kashem Fazlul Huq. Speaking as special guest at the inaugural ceremony, Cultural Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury highlighted the significance of the book fair as an integral part of the nation’s tradition, emphasizing its roots in the 1952 Language Movement. He urged people to remain connected to books despite rapid technological advancements, describing them as essential to the intellectual and human development of a nation.
The event began with recitations from holy books of different religions, followed by the national anthem and a chorus of the Ekushey song ‘Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February.’ Bangla Academy Director General Professor Mohammad Azam noted the institution’s link to the sacrifices of language martyrs and explained the theme’s reflection of a democratic and inclusive cultural ethos in a new Bangladesh.
Mohammad Azam expressed hope that the fair, organized with government commitment and ministry initiatives, would offer a unique experience amid the atmosphere of Ramadan and Eid. President of Bangladesh Pustak Prokashok O Bikreta Samity Md Rezaul Karim Badsha and Cultural Affairs Secretary Md Mofidur Rahman also spoke at the inaugural session. After the inauguration, the Prime Minister visited different stalls before the fair was opened to visitors.
The fair, set to continue until March 15, will operate from 2:00pm to 9:00pm on working days with entry closing at 8:30pm, and from 11:00am to 9:00pm on holidays. Bangla Academy sources indicate that 549 publishing houses are participating this year, with stalls spread across the Bangla Academy premises and Suhrawardy Udyan. The event is being organized as a ‘zero waste’ initiative, prioritizing reusable materials and maintaining an eco-friendly environment.
A Little Magazine Corner at Suhrawardy Udyan hosts 87 little magazines, and a Children’s Corner with 63 institutions will participate in ‘Shishu Prohor’ every Friday and Saturday. Daily seminars and cultural programmes will complement competitions in drawing, recitation, and music for children and adolescents. Security is ensured through CCTV and the presence of Bangladesh Police, RAB, Ansar, and various intelligence agencies.
Numerous awards, including the newly introduced ‘Sardar Joyenuddin Memorial Award,’ will recognize quality publications and aesthetic stall decorations, reflecting the fair’s commitment to celebrating literary excellence.