4 Amar Ekushey Book Fair & Satirtho Prokashona A Literary Fest
4 Amar Ekushey Book Fair & Satirtho Prokashona A Literary Fest
Blog Article
Introduction
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair (Boi Mela) is an annual month-long book fair held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, throughout February. Organized by Bangla Academy, it commemorates the Language Movement of 1952, where brave Bengalis sacrificed their lives for their mother tongue, Bangla. Over the years, it has evolved into Bangladesh’s largest literary festival, drawing authors, publishers, and book lovers from across the nation and beyond.
Among the key participants of this prestigious event is Satirtho Prokashona, a prominent Bangladeshi publishing house dedicated to promoting Bengali literature. This article explores both the historical significance and cultural impact of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair while highlighting Satirtho Prokashona's contributions to this grand celebration of literature.
Amar Ekushey Book Fair: History and Significance
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair traces its origins back to 1972, shortly after Bangladesh gained independence. The first formal book fair was organized by Bangla Academy in 1978, and since 1984, it has been known as Amar Ekushey Boi Mela in honor of the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement.
The fair is not just an event to buy books—it is a symbol of national pride, cultural resilience, and literary excellence. February 21, also recognized as International Mother Language Day, amplifies the importance of this event, making it an annual tribute to the Bangla language and heritage.
Structure and Organization
The fair is hosted on the Bangla Academy premises and extends to Suhrawardy Udyan, attracting thousands of visitors daily. The event is inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, followed by speeches from distinguished literary figures. The fair is structured with numerous stalls and pavilions, each representing different publishers, literary organizations, and digital book platforms.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxsZfynYbwY&t=7s
Key Features:
- Book Launches & New Publications – Thousands of new books are released, and authors engage with readers through book signings and discussions.
- Presence of Eminent Writers – Literary icons participate in seminars, panel talks, and meet-and-greet sessions.
- Cultural Programs & Seminars – The fair hosts poetry recitations, musical performances, and theatrical acts.
- Children’s Corner – A special section for young readers with storytelling sessions and interactive activities.
- Digitalization & E-Books – Many publishers introduce e-books and audiobooks, adapting to modern reading habits.
- Tributes to Language Martyrs – Visitors pay homage to the Shaheed Minar (Martyrs’ Monument), reinforcing the fair’s historical significance.
Impact on Literature and Publishing
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair plays a crucial role in shaping Bangladesh’s literary landscape by:
- Encouraging new and established authors to showcase their work.
- Boosting the book industry, with publishers generating significant revenue.
- Promoting Bangladeshi literature on a global platform through international participation.
However, challenges such as piracy, rising printing costs, and digital disruptions pose threats to traditional publishing. The future of the fair includes greater digital integration, international collaborations, and improved infrastructure.
Satirtho Prokashona at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair
About Satirtho Prokashona
Satirtho Prokashona is a renowned publishing house in Bangladesh, actively involved in publishing and promoting Bengali literature. Their slogan, "Friendship with Books," reflects their mission to foster reading habits among literature enthusiasts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avJXhe6b6FI
Head Office:
???? 10/K, Zilla Parishad Market (opposite Nanking Darbar Hall), Manibazar, Circuit House Road, Rajshahi
???? Contact: +8801737724170
???? Website: Satirtho Prokashona
Satirtho Prokashona’s Activities at the Book Fair
Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025 Participation
Satirtho Prokashona actively took part in the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025, which began on February 1, 2025. Their stall, number 667, attracted numerous visitors eager to explore their latest publications.
Special Offers & Promotions
???? Opening Day Free Gifts: Customers purchasing books worth 1,500 BDT received a free book or vintage bookmark set.
???? Discount Offers: Payments via Rocket (mobile banking) received a 30% discount.
???? Mystery Box Offers:
- Mystery Box-01 (345 BDT): Books worth 850 BDT, plus special gifts and bookmarks.
- Mystery Box-02 (455 BDT): Books worth 1,050 BDT, plus special gifts and bookmarks.
- Limited Availability: Only 25 sets per category were available.
New Releases & Vintage Editions
???? Bongodeshi Mythology – A deep dive into Bengali mythology by Rajib Chowdhury.
???? Butterfly Effect – The first installment of the "Godfather" series by Aminul Islam.
???? The Willows – A translated version of Algernon Blackwood’s horror classic.
???? Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s 21 Novels – Released in vintage edition covers, receiving great reader enthusiasm.
Pre-Order Benefits
Readers placing pre-orders for upcoming books received 40%-50% discounts on the printed price.
Conclusion
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair is more than just a marketplace for books—it is a cultural movement, a tribute to linguistic identity, and a celebration of knowledge. It continues to inspire generations, nurturing a love for literature in Bangladesh.
Satirtho Prokashona, through its active participation, unique publications, and reader-friendly promotions, has significantly contributed to the literary enrichment of the fair. As the book industry evolves, both the fair and publishing houses like Satirtho Prokashona will continue to adapt, ensuring that Bangladeshi literature thrives for generations to come.
FAQs
???? When and where is the Amar Ekushey Book Fair held?
The fair takes place every February at Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
???? Who organizes the book fair?
It is organized by Bangla Academy, the key institution promoting Bengali literature.
???? Can foreign publishers participate in the fair?
Yes, foreign publishers and literary figures often participate, contributing to international literary exchanges.
???? How can new authors publish their books at the fair?
Authors usually collaborate with publishers months in advance to release their books during the fair.
???? What types of books are available at the fair?
The fair features a wide range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, academic books, children’s literature, and digital publications.
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair, alongside publishing houses like Satirtho Prokashona, remains a beacon of intellectual enlightenment, cultural pride, and literary celebration, ensuring Bangladesh’s rich literary heritage continues to flourish for future generations.
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