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Published : 03 Mar 2026, 11:57 PM
The Amar Ekushey Book Fair has witnessed a day blending the scent of books with the colours of Dol Jatra.
The fairgrounds saw a significant surge in footfall after evening, with people from all walks of life joining the festivities.
Publishers and sales representatives noted that while the Ramadan fast kept the morning crowds thin, the post-Iftar period brought a much-needed boost to the event.
"The Dol celebrations definitely brought in more people than usual," said a Jhilimili publication sales representative, identified only as Anwesha.
Arijit, identified with a single name, from BigganBaksho echoed similar sentiments, noting that while this year's fair has been relatively quiet, Tuesday attracted more children.
Sharmistha came to the fairground from Siddheswari with friends after attending a Dol event at her campus temple.
M I Jilani, a private sector employee, brought his wife and 4-year-old son from Basabo to browse for comics and catch up with friends.
The spirit of inclusion was also evident as Jafar Sadik, a madrasa student from South Banasree, made his first-ever visit to the fair.
"I came after Iftar. It feels great to be here," he told bdnews24.com.
The 2026 book fair, which began on Feb 26, is scheduled to conclude on Mar 15.
Several publishers are urging the authorities to extend the deadline.
"If the fair could run for at least three days into the Eid holidays, sales would likely improve," suggested Ashik, a sales representative for Anannya Prakashan.
A media statement from Bangla Academy said 65 new titles arrived on Tuesday.
The evening was rounded off with poetry recitations and cultural performances by different troupes.
On Wednesday, the fair will open at 2pm and run until 9pm.
