With just a day left for the opening of the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair, the Boimela prangon in saltlake awaits to attract crowd from all across the globe. The usual winter afternoon calm is broken by the sound of hammering, and the smell of fresh paint as workers are determined to complete the preparations on time.
Stall owners are unloading books, electricians are testing lights, and decorators are adding final touches of decoration.
The fair is scheduled to be inaugurated on January 22 by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Organisers say this year’s edition will stand out for both its international focus and people friendly approach. The focal theme country for 2026 is Argentina, and the Argentine Pavilion is nearing completion. Designed in blue and white, the pavilion is expected to be one of the major attractions of the fair. Officials have confirmed the participation of Argentine writer Gustavo Canzobre and Ambassador Mariano Agustín Caucino with multiple literary and cultural sessions planned during the fair.
Amidst the excitement, regular visitors have noted a significant absence this year. The Bangladesh pavilion which has been consistently participating in the fair for the last 28 years is absent this time. Reports reveal that the reason behind this is the lack of clearance from the India’s Ministry of External Affairs amid political tensions between the two nations.
One of the most significant changes this year is improved connectivity. For the first time, the venue is directly connected by the Green line metro from Howrah to Central park via Esplanade.
Authorities have confirmed that a booth has been set up between gate number 2 and 3 from where visitors can directly book their metro tickets via UPI. An additional App cab booth has also been established right outside Gate number 1, aiding visitors to directly book for Cab services. Metro services has also been extended until 10:00 PM during the fair days to make this fair accessible to all.
To add more cultural touch, several entry gates have been named after prominent cultural figures, including writer Prafulla Roy and musician Pratul Mukhopadhyay, depicting the fair’s continued emphasis on Bengal’s literary and artistic heritage.
As the sun sets over Salt Lake, construction work continues and finishing touches are underway . By January 22, the dust and noise of preparation are expected to give way to packed walkways, book launches, and conversations that define Kolkata’s most anticipated cultural event. The city of joy is once again ready to turn the page.
