The annual Amar Ekushey Boi Mela, organized by Bangla Academy, is set to commence on February 20 this year. Dr. Md Selim Reza, the member secretary of the organizing committee for Amar Ekushey Boi Mela 2026, shared this announcement during a press briefing held at Bangla Academy’s Shaheed Munier Chowdhury Auditorium.
In his statement, Dr. Reza emphasized the significance of the fair as a vital component of the nation’s cultural heritage. He explained that this year’s fair start date was rescheduled to February 20 due to logistical considerations, deviating from the customary kickoff on February 1. Notably, stall rentals have been decreased by 25% compared to the previous year in response to publishers’ requests, with all necessary arrangements for the fair already completed.
The venue for the fair is Suhrawardy Udyan, with ongoing stall construction activities and finalized schedules for discussions and cultural events, as stated by Dr. Reza. Despite 53 new applicants, all 527 previous participants and 24 new institutions secured stall allocations due to space limitations.
Addressing concerns raised by publishers to postpone the fair post-Eid, Bangla Academy Director General Mohammad Azam assured that provisions have been made to accommodate Ramadan. Facilities for iftar food stalls, ample drinking water access, and arrangements for Tarawih prayers at the venue have been ensured.
Earlier, publishers convened at the Jatiya Press Club, advocating for the fair to be held post-Eid-ul-Fitr and presenting three additional requests. Their call for rescheduling post-Eid aligns with the consensus among the majority of publishers nationwide.
