As the four-year-old conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to draw worldwide attention, the 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) is set to offer a rare, peaceful intersection for the two warring nations. From Thursday, the Salt Lake Central Park ground will witness a historic first: Ukraine making its debut at the world’s largest non-trade book fair, alongside regular participant Russia.
“Books are, after all, the world’s most genuine friend,” one of the event’s organisers said. The fair will host literature from 20 countries, inviting readers to explore Ukrainian art and culture for the very first time in the city.
This year’s theme country is Argentina, the land of football icons Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. Given Bengal’s legendary passion for the sport, the theme pavilion is being designed in a vibrant blue-and-white palette.
Two of the fair’s nine gates are being modelled after ancient Argentine architecture. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will inaugurate the event, likely in the presence of Mariano Caucino, Argentina’s Ambassador to India, and renowned literary figure Gustavo Canzobre.
However, like last time, there will be no Bangladesh pavilion, nor will there be one for America, which is usually a very popular pavilion at the Kolkata Book Fair. In 2011, the theme country was the US.
A host of other countries, including Germany, the UK, France, Australia, Peru, Nepal, and several Latin American nations will be present at the fair which will last till February 3. Australia, which was absent at the last fair, will be present this year. The fair ground is expected to be dominated by various hues of blue, with the national flags of Argentina, Russia and Ukraine prominently bearing the colour.
One of the organisers of the fair said, “We want all the countries to mingle at the book fair, increasing the exchange of books, culture, and pictures.”
Date: January 22 – February 3, 2026
Theme country: Argentina
Debut participant: Ukraine
Notable absentees: Bangladesh, USA
Returning nation: Australia