The iconic Kolkata Book Fair (Kolkata Boimela), a major cultural event that ranks among the city’s most popular attractions alongside Durga Puja, is set to begin its 48th edition on January 28, 2025. It will run until February 9, drawing over 2.5 million visitors, a testament to the event's immense popularity.
This year’s fair promises to be unlike any other, as it introduces several significant changes and firsts, including the unveiling of a new mascot and the transition to an entirely open-air venue. Additionally, Germany will be the theme country, marking a return after a hiatus since 2009.
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A Unique New Mascot for the Book Fair
One of the most exciting developments for this year is the introduction of a mascot, a first in the history of the Kolkata Book Fair. According to the source The Hindu the mascot will take the form of a swan, traditionally considered the vehicle of Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning and knowledge. However, this isn’t just any ordinary swan—it has been given a unique twist. The swan is dressed in a saree and is bespectacled, carrying a book in its beak, embodying the essence of a young book lover. The mascot has already sparked curiosity and excitement, as it brings a distinct blend of cultural symbolism and modern-day literary enthusiasm to the event.
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| Pic: Collected. |
There has been some debate, though, about the choice of Saraswati’s vehicle as the mascot for a festival that aims to bring together people from all walks of life, irrespective of religion. Critics argue that while the idea of a mascot is a good one, using the vehicle of a Hindu goddess may not be entirely fitting for an event that is not religious but focused on the love for books and literature. However, the organizers have defended the choice, explaining that the swan, despite its religious significance, is universally recognized as a symbol of learning. The mascot is designed to appeal to a wide audience, reflecting the festival’s inclusive spirit, and it is not meant to represent any specific religious group.
A Shift to an Open-Air Format
Another major change this year is the fair’s shift to an open-air format, marking a significant departure from the previous setup. In the past, the fair had separate halls for English-language publishers, which were housed in temporary structures at the Milan Mela grounds. This arrangement had been somewhat unpopular, as the temporary structures were not ideal for hosting large-scale events. The new venue, located in Salt Lake City, does not have any permanent buildings, but organizers have chosen to embrace the open-air concept, making the event feel more like a true festival. There will be no temporary halls for the English-language pavilions, and all publishers, both national and international, will have their stalls set up in the open spaces, creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for attendees.
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Germany as the Theme Country: A First in 48 Years
In another exciting first, Germany has been chosen as the theme country for this year’s book fair. This marks the first time in the 48-year history of the fair that Germany will hold this honor. Germany had previously participated in the event until 2009 but had pulled out due to concerns over pollution and the lack of a suitable venue. However, after a hiatus of several years, Germany returned to the fair in 2024, encouraged by the new venue’s concreted grounds, which helped address the pollution issue. This year, Germany will showcase its rich literary heritage, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore German books, authors, and culture.
A Literary Festival for All
The Kolkata Book Fair is a celebration of books, literature, and cultural exchange. Over the years, it has become a cherished tradition for bibliophiles, authors, publishers, and readers alike. Each year, the fair attracts millions of visitors, with people coming from all corners of the country and beyond to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, meet authors, attend book launches, and explore thousands of books across various genres. The event also serves as a platform for international participation, with several countries using the fair as an opportunity to promote their literary culture.
Looking Ahead: Bigger and Better
The fair organizers are hopeful that this year will surpass last year’s attendance figures, which stood at an impressive 2.6 million visitors. The slogan for this year’s fair, “The sky is the limit,” reflects the ambition of the event and the hope that it will continue to grow and attract more visitors than ever before. As the countdown to the opening day begins, excitement is palpable, and book lovers from across the city and beyond are eagerly anticipating what promises to be another unforgettable edition of the Kolkata Book Fair.