The fate of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 remains undecided as the Bangla Academy awaits clarity on the national election schedule.
Traditionally held throughout February to commemorate the Language Movement, the fair’s timing now hinges on whether the general election takes place in the first half of the month or is pushed to later dates.
“If the election is held in early February, the fair will begin at the end of the month. If it’s delayed, we’ll start on February 1,” said Bangla Academy Director General Prof Mohammad Azam.
Despite earlier assurances of consultations with publishers and government representatives, no final decision was reached by the end of October.
The delay has sparked frustration among stakeholders.
The Ekushey Book Fair Sangram Parishad issued an ultimatum demanding a clear announcement by November 4, threatening to launch a protest movement if the government fails to respond.
The Bangladesh Book Publishers and Sellers Association (BAPUSAR) echoed concerns, warning that preparations require at least three months and cannot proceed without administrative cooperation.
“We’re still trying to convince the government,” said BAPUSAR President Rezaul Karim Badsha.
“If the election schedule is announced in December, it will be too late. The fair cannot be held without full support from the authorities.”
Earlier, the Bangla Academy had controversially proposed shifting the fair to December 2025, citing the election and Ramadan.
The plan drew sharp criticism from publishers, writers, and cultural figures who argued that February’s historical significance must be preserved.
Following public backlash, the Academy reversed its decision.
“The Home Ministry said it couldn’t guarantee security in December,” Badsha explained. “If elections are held in February, the fair can follow. If not, there’s no problem holding it in February itself.”
At a press conference on October 30, the Jatiya Kabita Parishad also demanded a timely decision.
Veteran publisher Shyamal Pal warned that a late-February fair would clash with Eid holidays, disrupting logistics and staffing.
“Starting on February 1 would preserve both tradition and practicality,” he said.
Writer and academic Dr Shoaib Gibran emphasized the symbolic value of the fair.
“This is not a commercial event, it’s a cultural institution tied to our nationhood. The book fair must remain in February.”
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair began in 1972 through the efforts of Muktadhara founder Chittaranjan Saha and has been formally organized by the Bangla Academy since 1978.
It remains one of the country’s most significant literary and cultural gatherings, drawing thousands of readers, writers, and publishers each year.
