For the First Time, Agartala Book Fair Launches Without Participation from Bangladesh
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Agartala, Jan 2 (NationPress) The Agartala Book Fair commenced here on Thursday with vibrant ceremonies, yet it was marked by the absence of any booksellers or publishers from Bangladesh -- a historic first due to the unrest in the neighboring nation.
Officials indicated that due to the ongoing unrest following the political upheaval in Bangladesh, no booksellers or publishers from that country participated in the Agartala Book Fair, which is taking place at the Hapania international ground on the city's outskirts.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha officially inaugurated the 13-day-long 43rd Agartala Book Fair, set to run until January 14.
During his speech, Saha encouraged the public to gift a meaningful book to their loved ones instead of traditional flowers or other gifts on special occasions.
A senior official noted that the Agartala Book Fair was established in 1981, and since then, it has seen participation from either publishers or booksellers from Bangladesh almost annually.
In past fairs, vendors from Kolkata and other cities have showcased Bangladeshi books, but this year, the absence of Bangladeshi titles is evident, according to the official.
Prominent publisher Debananda Dam remarked that given the current climate in Bangladesh following the sudden fall of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, there seems to be no willingness from booksellers or publishers in that country to attend the Agartala Book Fair.
“Considering the situation in Bangladesh, even Indian publishers and booksellers are hesitant to display or sell Bangladesh-related titles at the Agartala Book Fair,” Dam informed IANS.
As in previous years, booksellers and publishers from Kolkata, Guwahati, and Delhi are participating in this year's event alongside local publishing houses.
The official reported that over 159 stalls, including 42 stalls from outside booksellers and publishers, were established at this year's fair.
It was also mentioned that recent protests were held at some book fairs in various districts of West Bengal due to Bangladeshi books being displayed.
Furthermore, no Bangladeshi booksellers or publishers are expected to take part in the upcoming 13-day long 48th International Kolkata Book Fair, set to begin on January 28.
In November, a Bangladeshi trader was compelled to shut down his stall at a trade fair in southern Assam’s Silchar after protests from certain Hindu activists regarding the treatment of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
