News Desk, News Nation 360 : International Kolkata Book Fair 2025 is going to begin with an inauguration ceremony at 4 PM on 28th January 2025 presided over by Hon'ble Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and accompanied by the Hon'ble guests of Dr Phillip Ackermann, German Ambassador to India and Dr Marla Stuckenberg, Regional Director, Goethe Institut, South Asia. During the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister will honour Abul Bashar with a GUILD LIFETIME LITERARY AWARD. This year the participation has reached a record-breaking figure of over 1000 publishers representing all sizes and various little magazines. International participation is also of great importance with pavilions dedicated to countries such as Germany, the USA, the UK, France and others. Reflecting the global theme, major gates will be named after famous literary figures like Salil Chowdhury and Rainer Maria Rilke, while roads will be dedicated to eminent German and Indian personalities. A special Senior Citizen's Day is scheduled for February 4th, featuring felicitations for prominent figures in the literary world. For the first time, the Book Fair has a lovable mascot – a pair of ducks named Haso & Hasi – to greet visitors. Keeping in mind the all-inclusive nature of books, the organizers are committed to making the fair accessible to all. A daily lottery will be held, offering 15 lucky winners daily Book Gift Coupons worth Rs. 1000/- to encourage book purchases. Moreover, an easy-to-use Android app developed by Sister Nivedita University will help visitors navigate the fair using Google Maps, which will be available both in the app and on the ground map, accessible via QR codes distributed throughout the venue. This year's International Kolkata Book Fair promises to be a grand celebration of literature and culture, fostering international connections and enriching the literary landscape of the city and the nation.
Pic - Krishnendu Kundu
