Argentina focal theme national at Kolkata International Book Fair 2026
The Statesman | 4 November 2025
The 49th Kolkata International Book Fair will run from 22 January to 3 February, 2026. At the curtain-raiser, the Publishers and Booksellers Guild screened a short film showcasing the layout, major publishers, key stalls and the aesthetic elements of what remains the world’s largest non-trading book fair. Cultural events and allied programmes were outlined, and mascots Haso and Hasi, also made an appearance.
Argentina will be the focal theme country for the first time. Andres Sebastian Rojas from the Embassy of Argentina described the honour as a landmark moment, noting the deep cultural linkages between Bengal and Argentina – from Tagore to Maradona – and expressing hope for stronger exchanges.
Senior members of the Guild’s executive committee, including Sudhangshu Sekhar Dey, Asok De, Tapas Saha and Tridib Kumar Chatterjee were present.
Mr Chatterjee announced that the fair will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, with poets, authors and other creative figures as Guests of Honour. “Last year, 27 lakh book lovers visited the fair and book sales touched Rs 23 crore. Although many publishers have requested additional space, we cannot add more stalls this year,” he said, thanking KMDA, the state cultural department and Kolkata Police for logistical support.
2027 will mark the fair’s golden jubilee. The guild has invited photographers to submit archival images from the Maidan era by 10 December for planned publication. The UK, USA, Germany, France, Spain, Peru and Colombia are among confirmed participants, with 29 countries expected in all. Metro train frequency will be increased during the fair. The Kolkata Literature Festival will be held on 24-25 January.