Special Correspondent
A major Bengali book fair featuring more than 10,000 books is set to take place in New York. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Sunday at 7:00 PM local time at a restaurant in the Jackson Heights area of New York, ahead of the 35th International New York Bengali Book Fair. During the press conference, organizers highlighted the fair’s various programs, guest list, and cultural events. Convener of the fair, Dr. Nazrul Islam, said that more than 10,000 Bengali books will be displayed this year.
He expressed hope that the fair would become one of the largest literary and cultural gatherings for expatriate Bengalis, bringing together writers, poets, researchers, publishers, and literature enthusiasts from around the world. He also noted that 25 renowned publishing houses from Bangladesh, West Bengal, the United States, and other parts of the world will participate in this year’s fair. Notable publishers include Ankur Prokashoni, Annay Prokash, Abhra Prokashon, Anannya, Ahmed Publishing House, Ityadi Grantha Prokash, University Press Limited (UPL), Kathaprokash, Kakoli Prokashoni, Kashbon Prokashon, Kobi Prokashoni, Granthakutir, Jaldhi, Nalanda, Prothoma Prokashan, Bengal Books, Baatighar, Bidyaprokash, BPL, Mowla Brothers, Somoy Prokashon, Shomporko Publishers, Sahityam, Islam International Publication, Pixa & Poetry, and Muktadhara New York.
The fair will be inaugurated by renowned novelist and journalist Imdadul Haq Milon. Internationally acclaimed economist Rehman Sobhan will attend as the chief guest. Distinguished guests will include noted political scientist Rounaq Jahan and prominent media personality and children’s writer Faridur Reza Sagar. Special guests will include internationally recognized poet Bob Holman, prominent West Bengal poet Subodh Sarkar, writer Faruk Moyeenuddin, journalist Toufique Imrose Khalidi, science writer and astronomer Dipen Bhattacharya, and popular novelist Sadat Hossain.
Many distinguished writers, researchers, journalists, and intellectuals from Bangladesh and the diaspora will also participate in the fair. Among them are Dr. Abdur Noor, Mostafa Sarwar, Gautam Dutta, Professor Birupaksha Paul, Nazrul Minto, Professor Sourav Sikder, Ruma Modak, Zafar Ahmed Rashed, Mokarram Hossain, Professor Shamim Reza, Rudra Shankar, Faruk Ahmed, Ashik Mustafa, and Parmita Him. One of the special highlights of this year’s fair will be tributes marking the birth centenaries of two legendary literary and social figures — Shamsuddin Abul Kalam and Mahasweta Devi. Organizers said the initiative aims to introduce their literary works, humanitarian values, and social philosophies to a new generation of readers.
The cultural segment of the fair will feature performances by acclaimed singer Aditi Mohsin. Organizers also announced that a comprehensive catalog containing book titles, author information, and prices is being prepared for the convenience of readers. Special emphasis will be placed on new publications, research-based works, poetry, novels, Liberation War literature, and Bengali diaspora writing.
The press conference further revealed that this year’s inaugurator, Imdadul Haq Milon, and special guest Faridur Reza Sagar have already arrived in New York. Organizers believe their participation will make the fair’s events even more vibrant and engaging. The organizers said the annual event is aimed at presenting Bengali language, literature, and culture more strongly on the global stage. They expressed hope that the 35th International New York Bengali Book Fair will inspire a new wave of Bengali literary activities in the diaspora.
