Record-Breaking Success at 49th International Kolkata Book Fair

The 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) wrapped up at Central Park, Salt Lake, showcasing a remarkable increase in both sales and visitor numbers. Clocking Rs 32 crore in book sales since its opening on January 22, the fair welcomed over 32 lakh visitors, setting a new benchmark.

According to Tridib Chatterjee, general secretary of the Publishers and Booksellers Guild, the fair is considered Asia’s largest in terms of footfall. Guild president Sudhangshu Shekhar Dey noted a significant 15% rise in sales from last year’s Rs 23 crore, drawing around 27 lakh visitors in the previous edition.

This year's fair had Argentina as its focal theme country, attracting participation from nations such as Russia, Ukraine, China, the UK, Spain, and France. The event ceremoniously ended with the traditional 49 hammer bangs, attending guild members and dignitaries at 9.05 pm.