A significant number of well-known mainstream publishers have opted out of participating in the Amar Ekushey Book Fair, the country’s largest book fair. Their decision is influenced by concerns over potential financial losses due to the post-election scenario and the fair coinciding with the upcoming Ramadan period.
Typically, leading publishers are assigned pavilions at the fair, while others are allocated stalls. This year, out of the 37 publishers designated pavilions, 36 have chosen not to join and have requested rescheduling the fair to a later date after Eid-ul-Fitr. Notable publishers like UPL, Mawla Brothers, Ananya Prokashoni, and Onno Prokash are among those abstaining.
In a joint statement on February 8, 321 publishers called for the fair’s inauguration to be postponed until after Eid-ul-Fitr. Subsequently, 14 publishers sent an open letter to BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman echoing the same demand.
To confirm stall and pavilion assignments, Bangla Academy extended the payment deadline from February 9 to February 11. However, it is reported that many publishers are yet to complete their payments.
Publishers interviewed by The Daily Star expressed worries about potential instability post the national election. Monirul Hoque from Ananya Prokashoni highlighted uncertainties following the parliamentary polls.
With Ramadan set to commence on February 17, publishers are concerned that attendance might dwindle as people focus on iftar, Taraweeh prayers, and religious practices. Mazharul Islam from Onno Prokash noted that a decline in student attendance, who usually form a significant portion of the fair’s visitors and part-time workers, is expected due to educational institutions closing ahead of Eid.
The debate also includes concerns about how staff at the stalls would manage work while fasting during Ramadan. If the tradition continues, the next three editions of the fair will also coincide with Ramadan.
Publisher Md Mahabubur Rahman from Adarsha Prakashani stated that around 280 stall-holding publishers have announced their decision to refrain from participating, citing financial concerns.
Allegations have been made regarding irregularities in pavilion allocations, with claims of new publishers receiving allocations without proper approval or adherence to seniority rules.
Responding to the accusations, Bangla Academy’s Director General Mohammad Azom mentioned that stall and pavilion assignments are reviewed annually based on set criteria among applicants. He emphasized that the scheduled dates cannot be altered as proposals for rescheduling came after extensive preparations and approvals.
Azom refuted claims that the date selection was arbitrary, stating that it was decided in consultation with publishers and unanimously approved by the book fair committee. He highlighted the involvement of a larger number of publishers in this year’s committee compared to previous years.
Previously, Bangla Academy had initially announced that the 2026 Ekushey Book Fair would start in December last year, considering the election and Ramadan but later reversed that decision.
